‘Our Power, Our Planet’, Our LINC Program for International Earth Day
The Archway LINC program activated this year’s theme for International Earth Day, “Our Power, Our Planet,” with a variety of environmental awareness-raising activities. The CLB 1-4 classes explored carbon footprints and made posters on what we can do to help the environment.
Some classes learned how to read instructions for planting bulbs and seeds. Others ventured outside to do Community Clean-up.
Sponsored by the City of Abbotsford, Community Clean-up is a neighborhood litter and safety patrol volunteer opportunity that provides newcomers with hands-on learning about public safety, directions, and volunteerism.
At Archway South Fraser, the morning CLB 1-2 LINC class picked up litter along South Fraser Way and brought some recyclable items to the Clearbrook Recycling Depot. It was the first time for most of the learners to visit a recycling depot and see what goes in what bin. Learners Charanjit and Zewdi remarked that it was a “good clean up” and that they were “very happy.” Zekrullah added that the “clean-up on the street was very good” while Helen noted that at the depot we “made differences” and practiced “where to put it.”
The manager, Kim Hongil, was very welcoming to our group and gave each student a brochure with pictures of the most popular disposable items, from to-go cups to batteries. Some students enjoyed the event so much they asked how to get a job there. Kim graciously invites all who are interested to bring in a resume. He notes that the ability to “make small talk with customers” is important for this job.
The LINC 1-3 class in Mission also practiced recycling on Earth Day by bringing some disposal items from home to the Mission Recycling Depot, which is a 12-minute walk from the classroom. For most of our Mission learners, it was also their first time visiting the depot. Shahidullah, a level 3 student said he was “so happy” to know that we can recycle our old child car seats there. Ali, a level 2 student, texted the group chat later (with the help of AI), saying, “it was one of the best days spent engaging with the community.” Recycling is taught as a skill and a cultural practice year-round, making every day Earth Day — deepening knowledge of our power, our class, and our planet.
Written by Karla Hiltermann. Edited by Kendra Thompson.
Where does it go? Where do they go?
Students practice asking questions about disposable items with the recycling attendants at the Mission Recycling Depot.