Explore how you can make a meaningful difference through How Can I Make a Difference? Small Steps to Big Change, a weeklong panel and reflection series offered by Open Circle, which is a welcoming student community at McMaster that creates safe and respectful spaces for reflection, personal growth, spirituality, mental health, and leadership. This series invites students to reflect on service, purpose, and balance while learning how everyday actions can lead to lasting impact.
Through stories from volunteers in CVC volunteer groups, you’ll learn about ways to make a positive difference in Hamilton and beyond. Sessions include guided reflection on local issues, sustainable change, and how to give back through your chosen life path. You’ll also explore strategies for maintaining mental and spiritual wellness while balancing studies, career goals, and personal passions. Light snacks will be provided.
You are welcome to attend any or all of the following sessions:
- Volunteer Fair: Students can join weekly volunteer groups supporting underserved children, newcomer youth, local food banks, and more in the Hamilton community. Each group includes guided placements and group reflections.
- Date: Jan 7
- Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Mindful Habit Planner Week: Sessions include mindfulness circles and a reflective winter hike to help students set and maintain personal goals for 2026.
- Date: Jan 7 and 8
- How Can I Make a Difference? Panel and Reflection Series: A weeklong event featuring panels, mindfulness sessions, and workshops to inspire students to contribute positively to their communities and balance their personal and academic lives.
- Date: Jan 13 to 15
- CVC Volunteer Group Information and Orientation Session
- Tuesday, January 13
- Time: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Location: MUSC 311
- Mindfulness Circle
- Wednesday, January 14
- Time: 3:30 p.m. to 4:20 p.m. Optional social: 4:20 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Location: MUSC 212, Spiritual Care and Learning Centre (second room on the left after entering).
- Becoming Yourself Series: A six-week workshop series focused on building healthy habits, mindfulness, self-awareness, and productivity. Open to all students without prior participation required.
- Workshop 1:
- Thursday, January 15
- Time: 12:30 p.m. to 1:20 p.m. Optional social: 1:20 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Location: MUSC 220
- Workshop 1:
- Soul Searching Among the Stars: A planetarium show led by a McMaster professor, combining astronomy with mindfulness and reflection on life’s meaning. Space is limited; registration is required.
- Date: Jan 28
- Time: 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Click here to register to all the events.