Social Justice is an expression of our Catholic faith - caring for the poor and marginalised in society is given special attention in God’s eyes. Our students are given opportunities to participate in, and to create and drive their own social justice initiatives via our Religious Education programs, volunteer opportunities, and fundraising for House charities.
John Paul College aims to inspire faith in action, and nothing is more central to this than issues of social justice, working for the needs and rights of others and our capacity to facilitate change within our own community.
The Community Companion is a food and outreach van that has been providing food, drink, necessities, conversation, and support to those less fortunate in Frankston. In 2014 JPC students worked hard to raise $13,000 to buy a food trailer, to provide food and companionship to those in need. In 2015 the JPC Community Companion received the prestigious Order of Australia Association Schools' Project Award (Mornington Peninsula Branch).
The Companion runs Tuesday and Thursday evenings welcoming donations and volunteers from the College and greater Frankston community.
Mission Action Day is an annual, student-organised event that aims to raise awareness on issues of social justice and raise funds for House charities which extend to communities in East Timor, India and the Philippines and the Community Companion Van.
With a range of different sponsored activities happening in the morning and fundraising stalls taking place in the afternoon, Mission Action Day offers games, competitions and something for everyone to get involved in. It is definitely a highlight on the JPC calendar!
The College provides students with opportunities to answer the call to service through Immersion trips to the Philippines, East Timor and India. During these trips students work with local communities to care for the impoverished in schools, orphanages, disability and aged care. Participating in Immersion trips allows students to enhance their own lives and contribute positively to the community, fostering an awareness of international culture while experiencing the daily lives of people within a Catholic context. This provides a chance to witness the impactful endeavours of the Catholic Church, whose love and compassion have greatly influenced countless individuals.