The in- person version of Alternative Reading Week returned to U of T in 2022-2023. In a transformative winter reading week initiative, 119 students, including 18 project leaders, engaged in three days of impactful volunteering and learning with a variety of group projects for 12 community organizations, among them Kensington Health Centre, Regent Park Community Food Centre, Unison Health and Community Services, U of T Innovation Hub, ArtHeart and more.
The projects left a positive impact on both students and community partners. Participants expressed genuine appreciation for the programs, deeming the Alternative Reading Week experience “one of the highlights” of their U of T journey. Enthusiasm for this program extended beyond students, with many community partners wanting to return as hosts for next year’s reading week, forming a tradition of collaboration that continues to strengthen ties between the University and the broader community in support of student learning.