No.9, a collective of architects, designers, and artists dedicated to climate action, is expanding its award-winning Imagining My Sustainable Community (IMSC) program across Ontario. In partnership with Ontario School Boards, the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA), and HCLTech, IMSC aims to educate elementary students on building inclusive, sustainable communities.

 Targeting grades 7 through 9, IMSC immerses students in the critical aspects of sustainable development and climate change impacts. The comprehensive program spans four days and covers key learning objectives including global sustainability projects that exemplify the “9 Pillars of Sustainability” developed by No.9, urban planning, and the creation of master plans for local sites. Students will also participate in hands-on activities like neighbourhood walks, sketching, discussions, and model-making, culminating in an oral and visual presentation students share their ideas with visiting dignitaries such as their local city councillor.

 Volunteer architects play a pivotal role by lending their expertise in critical thinking and problem-solving. By participating with teachers in a classroom over two days, Architects who participate in the IMSC program will qualify for structural hours (25) and climate action hours (2) for the OAA’s Continuing Education (ConEd) requirements.

 IMSC will reach classrooms in Hamilton, Toronto, Kingston, and Ottawa during the 2024-2025 school season.

 For more information on how to volunteer, contact Elizabeth Davies at edavies@no9.ca or visit Imagining My Sustainable Community.