Welcome to a new regular feature initiated by the College Service Team...

Kia Ora Tātou, kō Katie Emms toku ingoa. I am the 2024 Service Captain and it is my honour to lead and serve the college community this year. The Service Team and I look forward to the challenges, events and tasks that lie ahead! 

I hope that this new feature of the newsletter will: 

• Build stronger awareness of the opportunities (internal and external) for service available to Villa students and the wider college community.

• Recognise those in the school who have taken part in a service event(s), therefore inspiring other students to do the same.

• Motivate students to get more involved and to become justice makers/participate in service in and out of the school environment.

Each week, two students will feature for their acts of service, answering the question: "How do you serve and why?" helping to inspire the Villa kura and community to do the same. Jordana Johnston and I will start off!

Katie Emms

Seeing the direct impact of service on people's lives is the main driving force behind why I want to serve. I know that big or small, in some way, these people will hold onto and cherish this act of service forever. 

One example is Kai for the Community, which provides a safe space for those less fortunate to gather, connect and enjoy a warm meal. This connection through service is truly humbling and rewarding. Watching people's faces light up at the sight of volunteers handing out meals and warm drinks or simply chatting with them is heartwarming. 

Another example is through the Special Event Canterbury Balls for those with intellectual and physical disabilities held at Christmas, Easter, Saint Patrick's day etc. 

From putting up decorations to dancing with the guests, these balls are a fantastic way to serve the community as every bit of hard work pays off when witnessing the pure happiness and excitement of the guests.  

Jordana Johnston

Hi, I’m Jordana and I'm part of the 2024 Service Team. 

I have participated in service contributions to Villa by selling ANZAC poppies, helping in extracurricular clubs (dance/choir), leading the Teen-Ag group, helping at Kai for the Community, as well as other service activities. 

One of the most fulfilling activities was spending time volunteering at a dementia care home. It was lovely to visit and chat with the residents. 

I have spent 40+ hours coaching netball and umpiring over the last two years. And lastly, I have helped to organise two breast cancer events. I found this rewarding - to see a community come together over a morning tea knowing the impact the fundraiser would have in helping the Breast Cancer Foundation. 

I find the most rewarding part of service is knowing that even a little bit of work can go a long way and knowing that the people I’m serving will be grateful for even the smallest amount of aid.

I wish Villa girls, all the best on their service journey this year. 

Upcoming Service Events that students can be part of:

Children's Day -  Sunday 3 March. This is a free community event celebrating children! Year 11-13 volunteers are needed.  

Special Events Canterbury St. Patrick's Day Ball. Saturday 16 March. This is a special St Patrick's Day celebration for those with disabilities in our community. Year 11-13 volunteers needed.  

Other opportunities to serve:

Altar Servers are needed and can be trained up to serve at our school masses.

Please contact Katie Emms for more information or if you have any questions.