Empowering the Future:
Activa Partners with Groh Public School for a Unique Community Project
In an exciting partnership between Activa and Groh Public School in Kitchener, two classes of Grade 7 students set out on an adventure: re-designing our very own “Harvest Park” community from the ground up. Students were divided up into small groups and were tasked with playing the role of either a city planner or the developer. Their mission? To conceptualize a community design that considers demographics, affordability, sustainability, and placemaking, all while adhering to a set budget.
Over the upcoming months, these students will not only collaborate regularly but also engage with seasoned professionals. Through these interactions, they’ll gain invaluable insights into the multifaceted world of community planning. Get ready to witness the growth of tomorrow’s urban visionaries as they shape the future of Harvest Park!
session one: a vision takes root
The first session was an exciting beginning to this project. Geoff McMurdo, Activa’s Chief Administrative Officer, shared his insights on community development and encouraged the students to think creatively. Christine Michaud from the City of Kitchener was also in attendance to shed light on the city’s perspective and emphasize the importance of community-driven initiatives.
session two: planning the dream
The second session brought the students face-to-face with real-world urban planning professionals. Janine Oosterveld, from the City of Kitchener, and Pierre Chauvin, from MHBC, guided the students through the intricacies of designing a functional community.
session three: from concept to reality
The third session took the project to new heights as Andrew (AJ) Vlcek, an architect from Martin Simmons Sweers, shared the nuances of architectural design with the budding designers. The students in the role as “developer” had begun using TinkerCAD to conceptualize their home designs. One group had even printed their first 3D home! The “city planners” have begun mapping out the roadways, parks, trails and amenities they will bring to this new community.
closing: cultivating tomorrow’s visionaries
As we continue with this project, the excitement and creativity in the air is palpable. We have more sessions planned, focused on sustainability, placemaking, and the economics of community building. The collaboration between Activa, Groh Public School, and the professionals from various fields have ignited a spark within these young minds. The journey has just begun, and there’s so much more in store.
We invite you to stay tuned to hear more about the upcoming sessions as the Grade 7 classes at Groh Public School continue to shape Harvest Park from the ground up.