Bachelor of Community Development Degree Capstone Projects

In the Community Development degree program, 4th year Capstone students don’t just learn about research, they step directly into it. Through participatory research projects with community partners at The Gatehouse, Richview Community Care Services, and The City of Toronto Community Development Unit, students tackle real questions that matter on the ground. Working side-by-side with agency staff, they explore issues our partners have identified and then translate their findings into clear, practical recommendations. And the best part? Those recommendations don’t sit on a shelf, they are actually implemented, creating real-world change the community can feel.

Last year's Capstone students worked with the Gatehouse to do a program evaluation for the peer support program for survivors of childhood sexual assault. Through their research, students learned that the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ were not being met by the current Gatehouse Peers Support group. As a result, the Gatehouse initiated a 2SLGBTQIA+ Peer Support group, which is the first of its kind in Canada. This year the Capstone students are evaluating the 2SLGBTQIA+ Peer Support group, to support continued program improvement.

This is hands-on learning at its best. Students gain the skills and confidence they’ll rely on in the field: collaborating with diverse stakeholders, gathering and interpreting data, and presenting insights that drive action. It’s the kind of experience that builds not only strong resumes but strong professionals.