The program was initiated by the provincial government in 2000. It awards students a tuition credit for completing between 30 and 100 hours of voluntary community service. Since the program began, 1215 students have received bursaries totalling $455,950 through the program.

The program is a joint initiative of the Department of Education and the Department of Development and Technology.

“The Community Service Bursary Program not only provides students with financial help, it also gives them some excellent, practical experience in the community,” said Education Minister Mildred Dover. “This experience can help students to make decisions about careers and can serve as a strong motivation for continuing education.”

The Community Service Bursary Program has also been a benefit to volunteer organizations. In the past five years, 396 groups have been able to take advantage of the energy and initiative of Island students.

“Volunteer organizations are always in need of people who can bring enthusiasm to their cause or service,” said Development and Technology Minister Mike Currie. “As well as serving their communities, these students learn valuable lessons about what it means to be a good citizen and to contribute to society,” he said.

The most popular organizations with student volunteers are peer education, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, church groups, sport groups, home and school groups and charities.

The goals of the Community Service Bursary Program are to: offer Island students in grades 11 and 12, who plan to attend a post-secondary institution, a tuition credit in recognition of volunteer work performed in the community; encourage volunteerism, support volunteer organizations and assist young people in achieving their educational goals; improve access for youth to post-secondary education by offering financial assistance; increase and encourage attendance at post-secondary institutions; provide youth with new experiences in their communities; develop a sense of community responsibility in youth; develop career and leadership skills in youth; and provide meaningful service in Island communities.