When students are reflective and feel care, it is wonderful to see them empowered to make a positive impact in the broader community. The personal growth and character development are extended as students learn to adapt to different environments and exercise the core competency skills being developed: communication, social responsibility, teamwork and leadership. The joint efforts of our Eco Marlins and our Marlinaires Service Club working with the Surfrider Foundation to help clean up Garry Point Park and River also reinforced classroom concepts with real-world experiences and fostered a deeper understanding of curricular subjects.