• Make us realize that at some point we can be leader

  Thank you for coming here in Madonna school. Thanks for the things you did for us, and make us realize that at some point we can be leader even how small or big it is. I know I didn’t become a leader in my group but in myself I know some day that ...

• I will change for the better

  I expected it to be a boring day. I learned that I am actually very unfair to my mom. It was a very safe space because everyone came here for the same reason. Talking to another parent really helped. It was like if you can tell a stranger, why cannot you tell your mom? I ...

• Please come back and share your teachings

  Thank you. Please come back to this school and share your teachings.

  Student age 15, grade 10

• Really changed the way I look at the people

  I am so glad that you guys came here today. I am not a very open person when it comes to talking about my life but today really helped and really showed me how many people feel the same way as me. You guys are an inspiration on so many people’s lives and ...

• I’ve made friends that I thought I would never make

  I really appreciate you coming to G.L. an letting us share our feelings. In November I did the program and it’ll never get old to me. I wouldn’t mind doing this 100 more times. I hope grade 9’s or even every grade from grade 6 & higher can get this chance. I can ...

• It made me realize what I needed to do

  Dear Jack, I wasn’t here for the whole day, but from when I came to the end of day the activities that I did were very helpful. The last game we played, cross the line, was very “intense” because the questions weren’t simple questions, they really made you think and express what you ...

• I’ve learned many things of becoming a leader

  Dear Jack, Thank you for the workshop you did for us today. This workshop has helped me and I’ve learned many things of becoming a leader. Especially some of the activities you have done made me realize what people are going through in their life. Overall I’m glad I’ve experienced this workshop and ...

• I feel closer to my mother after this experience

  I expected it to be fun and it really was. It enlightened me that there were so many people just like me and that we all understood each other. I learned that lots of people cared and were willing to help whoever needed it. I learned that I enjoy meeting new people. I ...

• It wasn’t boring at all

  Hi Jack, I really enjoyed this leadership workshop! It wasn’t boring at all :). The “Cross the line” game made me realize that we’re NEVER ALONE! People will always be there and I know I’ll be there too. I’m going to be my normal self: outgoing, humorous and loving & I promise to ...

• I promise to be more caring, loving and welcoming

  Dear Jack, Thank you so much for this experience… though I did not like the last game because often times I don’t like expressing my feelings. Sometimes I feel very alone even though I still have so many friends and I know they will always support me. Often times, I don’t feel like ...

• I learnt a lot about me

  Dear Jack, Thank you so very much for all that you have taught me. Personally for myself I learnt a lot about me, and started looking at things from a different point of view. I think that from this day onward I will take into consideration people’s feelings, and the way I look ...

• This workshop has made it possible for me to make new friends

  Dear Jack, Thank you for today because I got to meet and talk to children I never would have spoken to before. I’m new to Madonna, in fact new to Canada, so as you can imagine I have no friends as yet and as a result, I find myself on my own a ...

• The experience was successful and has affected many of the students

  Dear Jack, This experience with the younger students was interesting and inspiring. I felt that I have had done a pretty good job in reaching out, and also learned to do better with communication, thanks to your workshop training sessions. Although these workshops were surely successful and moving for the students at the ...

• I learned that if we need help we have to ask

  Dear Jack, Thank you for this amazing activities. They really helped me a lot. I learned that if we need help we have to ask. We won’t always get ask if something is wrong. My promise is that from now on I will ask for help when I feel like talking to someone, ...

• Testimonials from Volunteers

• Testimonials from Parents

• I felt good

  It felt good to know that I wasn’t the only one that had all these troubles.

  Jason age 14, grade 9

• I appreciate it a lot

  Dear Jack, I really want to thank you for coming and doing this workshop with us. I never told my story to so many people I never thought to trust. I never wrote down my life story and let someone beside myself read it. I now feel more comfortable talking about my story. ...

• Today you taught me how to help people

  Dear Jack, Today you taught me how to help people & how I should deal with my problems, I thank you for that. You showed me that there are other people who are in the same situation as I am in. I promise to help people no matter what the situation is & ...

• Thanks a lot

  Thanks a lot & I hope to see you again one day. My promise is that I will try to help support as many people as I can. Love. (original message)

  Leader’s Quest Program

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• The energy was outstanding

  Just wanted to thank you for being part of our special event last Friday. The energy was outstanding. I hope you were able to see some of the positivity and talent that went on in the auditorium. It was like having a leadership mosh pit 🙂

  M. Consul (TCDSB – ...

• We were able to reflect, feel empathy for others as well as understand more deeply

  Thank you for providing the time on Tuesday for us to get to know each other at a different level. The activity of crossing the line of humanity was particularly meaningful and certainly put us in a place where we were able to reflect, feel empathy for others as well as understand more ...

• We learned a great deal about ourselves and each other

  It was quite the day! I feel we learned a great deal about ourselves and each other as we were reminded not only of all the students we deal with but also all the staff and colleagues we encounter each day. It was a gutsy, bold move to have that sort of PD ...

• Everyone was quite upbeat

  Time just flew by so quickly that we did not get time to complete the agenda. Everyone was quite upbeat. Thanks to you!

  O. Persaud (C.L. – Canadian & World Studies/Social Science & Humanities Department)

• People are still talking about it, and it definitely made an impact on everyone

  Jack Langedijk and his brother did a presentation to staff at VP Middle School on the afternoon of our P.A. Day. (They are the two gentlemen who presented at our very first FOS administrator’s meeting in August.). Their presentation was similar to the August presentation but they did it in a mere 2.5 ...

• Excellent!

  Excellent! Thank you very much Jack! Our colleagues will greatly appreciate the list of wonderful and engaging activities!

  W. Lee (Vice Principal)

• I wish something like this had existed

  The only thing I can say is that I wish something like this had existed when I went to school some 12 years ago. I think it would have made a world of difference towards what I had to endure. I was picked on my whole life for one reason or another, not ...

• Thank you for showing me

  Thank you for showing me ways to respond and to keep under control.

  Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

• Thanks for breaking the ice

  Dear Jack, thanks for breaking the ice. I enjoyed myself with the families we worked with. Thank you for your learning experience to share with us to be the best we can possibly be. To be open is hard but you made that easy for us. God bless you and your family.

  Jack, I felt safe and all attendees were willing to share their experiences/frustrations. Even though my daughter and I were close, I believe this has only helped to enrich our relationship. I was surprised at how quickly the time flew and by how much I hope to take away with me. I am ...

• I enjoyed the workshop

  I enjoyed the workshop. It really opened my eyes on things that I took for granted. Thank for the experience. You bring new life to me and my family. I really appreciate you know your job. Again, I really appreciate it.

• The workshop brought out a better understanding

  The workshop brought out a better understanding in our lives, leaving behind our past and starting a new life. It was just a wonderful experience we had during this workshop. At first it went a little slow but towards the end it brought a lot of meaning and changes in our lives, thoughts and almost ...

• I enjoyed the experience

  I enjoyed the experience. This is the first time I attend to a workshop of this nature, and with my daughter! Thank you, Jack. It was a lot of valuable information to absorb in one day. I hope to remember them all or the most important: listening to my daughter.

  Dear Jack, I did enjoy the experience because I feel that it has in some way made me realize the hardships of being a parent that I had not realized before. Thank you so much for presenting this opportunity to me. I appreciate your way of showing me that there are people out ...

• Thanks for getting our family together

  I enjoyed the experience because I met new people. Thanks for getting our family together.

  Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

• Thanks so much for helping me

  Smile when the good times come, and cry to express your emotion. Do not be afraid to cry. Great time, loved meeting new people and opening up. Thanks so much for helping me open up easier and for helping me find my true self!

  Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

  I find this workshop safe because you can talk to people that is going through the same things. I enjoy myself. I have met new people and talk. Thanks for this wonderful workshop. It was fun and sad at the same time.

  Parent attended My Family Talks ...

• So much fun!

  “I was surprised an emotional day could be so much fun!!”

• I enjoyed Quest I’m On very much

  I enjoyed Quest I’m On very much. I found that my group was very open and felt comfortable sharing their feelings. I enjoyed sharing my stories and views, and believe that they were welcome in my group. Thank you for allowing everyone open up and express themselves comfortably. (original message)Scott (Facilitator) age ...

• Your program helped many of our students express their concerns

  Thanks for your program. I truly think it helped many of our students express their concerns. All too often I see students at a loss and have no one to talk to. This day gave them a chance to talk about the things that never get said, but should. Thanx for everything. (

• My second time going through this experience

  This is my second time going through this experience, and it has touched me both times. I know what was to be expected due to my previous experience. What I didn’t realize was how many people within my own school it had touched and how many people feel unsafe. The hardest thing for ...

• It still had a huge impact on me

  Being a leader for this time through, I had different expectations and responsibilities but it still had a huge impact on me. For instance, I wasn’t expecting my younger peers to open up as much as they did and I was able to realize that even with the age difference, we all experience ...

• Be exciting to see the possible changes this school can make

  Once again, as mentioned yesterday, it was great to see the process in action. The group I was apart of showed some great insight and generated some great discussions that will, if followed through, be exciting to see the possible changes this school can make. (original message)

  Student (Facilitator) ...

• Your program have given hope and a way out to many

  Not much can be said about the now two experiences I’ve had with you. First off I would like to thank you for what you are doing. Your program have given hope and a way out to many. Without discussing these issues, people suffering would never know they are not alone. You truly ...

• I’ve been in this workshop 3 times and I still love it

  I’ve been in this workshop 3 times and I still love it. Being with peers, and as a leader, the things I learn are incomparable. I honestly want to keep doing this as long as I live. My group today connected and participated. This girl Samantha is so strong and I want not ...

• I thought this was a fantastic workshop

  Want to let you know that I thought this was a fantastic workshop and that I 100% agree with what you are trying to do. I believe everyone benefits. The benefits for us would be great but it would be another way of working with DB to breakdown biases resulting in more students ...

• Jack, you have the most amazing job

  Jack, you have the most amazing job and you also seem to have an incredible talent for reaching young people. Reading these letters has motivated me even more. In fact, here is my letter to you… Dear Jack, How can our school ever thank you for making our girls realize their worth and ...

• Thank you for the kind words

  Thank you for the kind words. You really did make a great impression on my students. Your workshop has helped many of them look at themselves and each other with kinder eyes. I also hope we can work together again.

  Bonita (Leadership Program)

• I am happy to have been able to participate

  I am happy to have been able to participate. This day has further helped me to see and understand some of the difficulties that my students must endure daily. I take with me that there is definitely a reason that I am at this school. The curriculum is SECONDARY. The relationships and helping ...

• What an awesome experience

  What an awesome experience. You certainly have a talent for dealing with people and developing rapport in such a short period of time. Many of the students expressed how much closer that they felt to one another as a result of your workshop. It was truly a blessing to have you.

  Your interactive workshop was well received by both classes and there was a certain buzz for a few days. Our students learned some valuable lessons about respect and feelings; a few have found the courage to speak to their teachers again! Overall, our students enjoyed mingling with your young DB leaders who did ...

• How powerful an experience “Quest I’m On” day was

  I wanted to let you know how powerful an experience the “Quest I’m On” day was for the students of Roberts and for me personally. I was impressed with how well the day was structured and how each activity progressed developing a “sense to safety and sensitivity” within the participants. It was hard ...

• It makes people change

  I would like to say thank you so much for coming to my school to do this again. I really enjoyed you both doing this for us. I found it to be a very very good experience for me and everyone else. It is very touching all. It makes people change, well at ...

• It allowed me to communicate better with my peers

  Dear Jack, What I most enjoyed about this workshop is how you picked random people in our class for group leaders. By doing this, it allowed me to communicate better with my peers. Since I was in a group with random people, I was forced to talk and this helped build my communication ...

• Meant so much!

  Thanx for coming to our school. Meant so much. Gave us the chance to open up & see everything with new eyes! (original message)

  Student age 15, grade 10 

• I felt I could express

  Because others expressed themselves I felt I could.

  Alice age 14, grade 9

• We will take lessons back and put them in effect in our lives

  Dear Jack, Thank you so much for coming to Madonna! I think all of us here will take lessons back and put them in effect in our lives. I really liked how you emphasized listening and its importance. In this fast-paced world we now live in, we all don’t listen to each other ...

• I enjoyed Quest I’m On very much

  I enjoyed Quest I’m On very much. I found that my group was very open and felt comfortable sharing their feelings. I enjoyed sharing my stories and views, and believe that they were welcome in my group. Thank you for allowing everyone open up and express themselves comfortably. (original message)Scott (Facilitator) age ...

• I feel so much closer to people

  I had some expectations that this would be a bonding day to get to know each other better. I for sure met my expectation. The Quest I’m On day allowed me to realize that my friends and peers are going through things that I could not even imagine. Therefore, the most important thing ...

• I feel a lot better letting it out

  Thank you for today. I came in here this morning thinking it would be gay and I wasn’t going to come. But it turned out to be alright. The best activity (the line) was very emotional but I feel a lot better letting it out and for that I thank you guys very ...

• Thanks for getting our family together

  I enjoyed the experience because I met new people. Thanks for getting our family together.

  Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

• This leadership session has taught me a lot

  Dear Jack, Thank you for today. It was really fun and interesting, I’m glad I joined. This leadership session has taught me a lot, I feel more comfortable with the people around me. I even made some new friends. This session also made me aware of everyone’s problems. I noticed some people have ...

• Thank you so very much for this

  Dear Jack, I thank you for doing this leadership program today with us. I learned that one of my friends isn’t very happy and doesn’t feel safe from the line you you had us do. I want to thank you so very much for this. If you hadn’t done this it would have ...

• Today helped me realize

  Today helped me realize that I’m not the only one struggling with situations. Now I have some people I might go to for help that I wouldn’t have before. It helped me also realize people are being judged for more than race or gender. My friends helped me do this allowing me to ...

• Thank you and don’t stop

  There is not a lot I can say other than… thank you and don’t stop! (original message)

  Student age 15, grade 10 

• So much fun!

  “I was surprised an emotional day could be so much fun!!”

• People are still talking about it, and it definitely made an impact on everyone

  Jack Langedijk and his brother did a presentation to staff at VP Middle School on the afternoon of our P.A. Day. (They are the two gentlemen who presented at our very first FOS administrator’s meeting in August.). Their presentation was similar to the August presentation but they did it in a mere 2.5 ...

• The workshop brought out a better understanding

  The workshop brought out a better understanding in our lives, leaving behind our past and starting a new life. It was just a wonderful experience we had during this workshop. At first it went a little slow but towards the end it brought a lot of meaning and changes in our lives, thoughts and almost ...

• This leadership workshop was one of the best experiences I’ve had

  Dear Jack, My name is L. Graham. As a former and current leader, I believe this leadership workshop was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my life time. This workshop was a great way for different team leaders, to open up to everyone around them. Also to show and share the ...

• Every teen should have this experience

  I’m really thankful you both came to GL Roberts because there are so many students not accepting themselves & every student that came today & yesterday greatly benefited from your program. There are things I never would have let out by talking normally with my friends, things that I needed to get out ...

• You encouraged us to dig deep and open up

  Dear Jack, Today was great. Really. You encouraged us to dig deep and open up. Also you made us feel that crying was a natural and good thing. Thank you so much. You also touched topics that a lot of us are afraid to talk about like being violated and thinking about suicide. ...

• It brought us together

  Dear Jack, Thank you so much for today. We met new people, and for us Grade 9’s it brought us together and showed us that at Madonna we aren’t alone. There are people here that are willing to listen to us. Jack, I promise that if I ever see anyone upset and they ...

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Dear Jack, My name is L. Graham. As a former and current leader, I believe this leadership workshop was one of the best experiences I've had in my life time. This workshop was a great way for different team leaders, to open up to everyone around them. Also to show and share the different talents that they have as a leader. This has helped me to improve the skills that I already have. I cannot wait until the next workshop to learn more and to become more of a leader. I would like to thank you, a million times, for the work you do and the way you change people's lives. May God continue to bless you and your wonderful work. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I've gone to a couple of other leadership workshops in the past and I have enjoyed this one the most. The reason is that in other workshops, it was mostly just discussions about how we could change the world (third world countries, lack of water). These are great initiatives but what we really should do is help ourselves first. Today while we were doing the cross the line activity, most people acknowledged their problems. How could we help others without helping ourselves. We really hit the root of the problem today and I think that with your assistance we can all flourish and be leaders who care. This year, I promise to ask my classmates how they are feeling. They may be shy or scared and just feel as if they can't ask for advice but if I'm open towards them, they may feel the same way. Thank you. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today was definitely a learning experience for everybody. I think everyone really learned something new about someone or something. Thank you so much for coming to Madonna and teaching everybody a little bit about themselves and others. I promise to try and be a better leader and help people when they are in need. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today we learned many different things about leadership and how to listen. It made me think about my life, the problems, the good things and how to change things. I think this definitely made me realize that if I wanted to, I could make the changes. I have to bring out the good things in life, and not only the bad. I promise... to be the best I could be and try my best to be happy. And try my best to listen. Love. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for coming to our school! I really enjoyed it, and the skills we learned like teamwork, and supporting people really helped me a lot. Also, the words you spoke to me about my presence and how it is so noticeable that I can light up the room made me think and value myself even more. Also the cross the line game we played really helped me to express myself even more. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you so much for coming to Madonna! I think all of us here will take lessons back and put them in effect in our lives. I really liked how you emphasized listening and its importance. In this fast-paced world we now live in, we all don't listen to each other as well as we should. How are we to help each other without communication? You reminded us all of its importance. I promise to communicate more with others and be open enough for others to feel comfortable to communicate with me. Thank you again. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for teaching me how to become a true leader and listener. I will use the knowledge that I have gained to become a better person and to help those in need. Today I have found my inner self and found a lot about others. One thing that I will promise to do is to help others and get involved in those who need it. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Thanks a lot & I hope to see you again one day. My promise is that I will try to help support as many people as I can. Love. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you so very much for all that you have taught me. Personally for myself I learnt a lot about me, and started looking at things from a different point of view. I think that from this day onward I will take into consideration people's feelings, and the way I look at people (as an individual) more seriously. From this day I promise to take life more seriously, I also vow to help others more regardless if I know them or not. I hope that I will improve by the end of this year. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I wasn't here for the whole day, but from when I came to the end of day the activities that I did were very helpful. The last game we played, cross the line, was very "intense" because the questions weren't simple questions, they really made you think and express what you really feel and go through. It made me realize what I needed to do as a person, a friend, and as a family member. I promise to help someone, at least ask what is wrong, to someone I see walking down the hall. I promise I will try my best. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you so much for this experience... though I did not like the last game because often times I don't like expressing my feelings. Sometimes I feel very alone even though I still have so many friends and I know they will always support me. Often times, I don't feel like my feelings are important. I put my loved ones first. Today, you taught me so much, I need to learn how to express myself... and that I'm not the only one that feels what I feel. I want to lead my own life, I want to live my life with no regrets... and I have lots of dreams I want to fulfill. I will always smile. Smiling is my medicine, it hides all my pain. Nobody will know what is behind this mile. I promise to be more caring, loving and welcoming. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for this amazing activities. They really helped me a lot. I learned that if we need help we have to ask. We won't always get ask if something is wrong. My promise is that from now on I will ask for help when I feel like talking to someone, or if I need something. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you so much for today. We met new people, and for us Grade 9's it brought us together and showed us that at Madonna we aren't alone. There are people here that are willing to listen to us. Jack, I promise that if I ever see anyone upset and they let me help them, I'll be there to listen for someone. Thank you. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for today. Today you helped me very much. You helped me to let out my bottled up feelings. You made it a fun experience, while we were learning to trust complete strangers. Today you showed me that I'm not alone and that I have an amazing support system, that I never have to suffer alone again. You also helped me to realize that there are others who have it worse than me. Thank you so much. I promise to support all of the girls in the room and school and to help whenever I can. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I thank you for doing this leadership program today with us. I learned that one of my friends isn't very happy and doesn't feel safe from the line you you had us do. I want to thank you so very much for this. If you hadn't done this it would have went on for longer and I wouldn't know how unhappy she was. As a friend of hers I promise to make sure I ask her how she's doing and to talk to her if she isn't okay. This is a promise to myself and a promise to you. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for such an amazing day. I think today I learned all of the things that I need to improve on to make me happier. I have had a really rough tough month and I think this session with you has brought me a step closer to finding out who I am. Even though I have problems in my life right now I know that later on things will get harder and I just want to learn how to handle situations better. Thank you for teaching me how to be more confident about what I say and to feel empathy with other people. I promise that I will try not to hurt anyone or make feel left out. Love. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, To be completely honest, I thought this day would be light, fun and cheery. I never expected to actually learn anything about myself or my peers. I thought it would be just a bunch of games no one took seriously. I'm glad I came today because I was able to express myself personally - even cry in front of people I don't usually talk to. I'm glad to realize that the problems or issues I go through isn't just bothering me. The people in this room go through the same thing. Because of this day, one thing I'll do to change the school - maybe even the world - is to ask anyone who looks upset, how they're doing. And this time, I'll really listen. I will show my support to anyone who needs it. Thank you so much for this day! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I am really glad that I took this workshop. I thank you for being with us today. I thank you for all the things you taught us today. I hope all of this things will always stay with me. Thank you for helping us/me to open up and realize the things I've never realize before. I promise to try really hard to make this school safe and help everyone feel safe, everyone that comes in and out of this school. You helped me put myself in another person's shoe and know how they feel. Sometimes I imagine myself "how about if I were them?" (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, This experience today has been life changing. I was unsure of what to expect coming into this, but I have left with a complete new mindset. Today you taught me things that I've never known before. There's a lot going on in my life and I've been through a lot. I always kept everything to myself and never expressed what I was feeling. You made me open my eyes and realize that there is always someone there for me, I just have to ask for support. This workshop has already helped me. I am able to talk to others about how I feel. I'm sure this will sure help with my depression. Knowing that there are people there for me can also help make me a better leader by being able to open my arms wide and provide the same support for others. Thank you deeply and whole-heartedly for giving me this knowledge today. Truly touching. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I want to say thank you so much for showing me that there are people like me. That I'm not all that different from girls from what I always thought I was. Thank you for helping me make friends because high school has already brought me down a little. You didn't have to come here today but you did. And I to be honest, wasn't even going to come today but I am really glad I choose to come. I feel like today you made a real difference in my life just by talking which I didn't think could make such a difference. Just for you, I promise to always think about others as well as myself more often and to find out more information about how I can help myself. I will talk to my mom more often. And once again thank you very much. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I really enjoyed your leadership workshop. I feel that you've helped open my eyes more, to realize I'm not alone in this world. Also I learned to be a better leader and even to becoming more of a better friend. Thank you for this great opportunity that I experienced today. One thing I will promise you is that I will try my best to apologize to people I may have hurt in the past and to be more forgiving, also not to let people in the school feel left out of a group. Sincerely. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thanks for the fun day. You made me realize how easy my life is compared to others during the last part of the day. With what I learned today I want to change what goes on at school. I want people to stop the bullying and the name calling. I want to be there for whoever needs support and someone to talk to. I promise to try to change the environment in the school. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for today. I enjoyed it. I learned to be a better listener and a better leader. At the beginning of the workshop, I thought I'd feel left out. I saw many familiar and unfamiliar faces. I expected today to run more different than it did, but it was interesting. Near the end of the workshop, when we started cross the line, I thought it would be fun - more enthusiastic. But as we advanced through it, I noticed it wasn't a casual game. I noticed that it was not a game. It was personal. At one point of it, it got emotional. I never knew how many people were stressed and out of it. I learned a lot and experience many things. I really thank you. One thing I promise to do is be someone that makes others feel safe. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for the workshop you did for us today. This workshop has helped me and I've learned many things of becoming a leader. Especially some of the activities you have done made me realize what people are going through in their life. Overall I'm glad I've experienced this workshop and I promise to listen to other people when they are going through a tough time and is alone. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program Grade 11

Dear Jack, I would like to thank you for a wonderful and changing day. I know I won't forget today and change will happen. In the beginning of the day I thought I would be with the people I know. I didn't know by the end of the day I would have friends and people to talk to. I think not only would I be a better leader, but also a better person. In the morning I didn't know my values or myself really. But who knew by the end of the day that I'll know what I want to do. I want to change myself and the people around me. I want people to be safe and happy. And if I can change at least one person, it would feel amazing. Thank you so much for this experience. I promise to be more positive and be thankful for my life. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today I met a lot of people and my impressions of them had changed from when I first met them. I made a marshmallow pasta sculpture thing and I made a lot of great friends. I sincerely thank you for coming to our school and being with us here today, because if this day had never existed, I would not have met the people in this room right now and I wouldn't have had such a great experience. Jack, I promise you that I will make the people in my school feel safe and included. Do you notice how I said "I will" not "I'll try"? :). This way, you'll have to trust me and believe me that it will be done. Even though you don't know me well. Yours truly. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you so much Jack, this was an amazing day, you're a great person Jack, I'm happy I come to this leadership. I had a lot of fun even though I ended up crying. Hope we can meet again! Thanks again. I like the activity we did at the end. It was very hard, but it was great. My promise to keep this school safe & to respect everyone & treat them as how I would want to be treated. Thank you again. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for today. It was really fun and interesting, I'm glad I joined. This leadership session has taught me a lot, I feel more comfortable with the people around me. I even made some new friends. This session also made me aware of everyone's problems. I noticed some people have it worse. Thank you for coming and spending your time and sharing your knowledge with us. Please come again! Hope to see you soon. PS. My promise is to make people (friends and strangers in my school) feel comfortable around me. I'll try to help them and listen to them to show them that they're not alone :). (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today's class has taught me a lot. I learned who I really was & all my faults. I have realized the events that occurred in my life. I promise with all my heart to make the future events less painful and instead make it brighter. PS. Thank you! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today you taught me how to help people & how I should deal with my problems, I thank you for that. You showed me that there are other people who are in the same situation as I am in. I promise to help people no matter what the situation is & to always listen no matter what's going on. Love. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today was a great experience overall for me because I got to know other students more and learned the qualities of a leader. This taught me to improve my listening skills, and to become a better person. Thank you for taking your time to come to Madonna. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Today was great. Really. You encouraged us to dig deep and open up. Also you made us feel that crying was a natural and good thing. Thank you so much. You also touched topics that a lot of us are afraid to talk about like being violated and thinking about suicide. From this day, I promise to be more open so people can share their thoughts and feelings with me. I will also work on "feeling" things that as humans should be natural. Finally, I will try to not laugh when I see people especially guys, crying. Sincerely. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, First of all, I want to thank you for your time, for teaching us what true leadership is. My first impression of you was a very serious man but as the time pass, I find you a very interesting and fun person who is willing to help others. What you taught us this day is very meaningful especially the last part where we lined up. It almost made me cry, seeing others tear up and thinking to myself all the things I've been through, but I decided not to. I thought, I'm more than this, I can't cry yet. I promise, to this day, I will be there for everyone, for my friends, for my family and try to be a good leader. Take care! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for everything you taught us. Most of this will hopefully be with me throughout my life. I realize a lot of things and I feel so determined to face all my challenges in my life. Thanks! 🙂 I promise to do something to make people feel safe in my own little ways. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Your workshop was a very good experience for me and I think all of the other girls as well. All of the activities seemed to work well with everyone and I think we all learned something today. The booklet also gave us a chance to express ourselves and learn more. The last exercise also helped everyone let themselves go, though I didn't like seeing my friends crying and depressed. Overall, you did a really good job today, especially with lifting everyone's minds in the end. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for all the things you taught us. This day was kinda fun so far. I promise that I will talk or support the people who have problems or something. And I promise that I will change myself. I will not be shy anymore. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for this leadership workshop. It was very inspirational, and I felt that there were things in me that I need to change. When I go home, I'm just gonna take some time to just search through my thoughts, and figure out what I need to change in my life. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, I thank you for this day. It is very good to see that I'm not the only one going through things like this I promise to try and have a higher self esteem. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for this amazing experience. It has showed me a lot about being a leader, and being respectful to one another. Today, I will walk out of here with a brand new attitude towards being kind. When we had to cross the line for our problems, it really it me and made me feel like I wasn't alone. I promise to respect and be there for people even if I don't know them. I will make them feel safe and they can talk to me about anything. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for today. It was inspirational and fun filled with activities, and communication! You've opened my mind to other perspectives and had my mind for sometime. Our activities from the marshmallow castle to the over the line activity, it was entertaining. I thank you for a great day and you caught a few tears from your last emotional exercise. I hope to see you again soon at another leadership meeting :). Thank you. I promise to make a better life for myself. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for today because I got to meet and talk to children I never would have spoken to before. I'm new to Madonna, in fact new to Canada, so as you can imagine I have no friends as yet and as a result, I find myself on my own a lot and I'm too shy to just go up and talk to people. This workshop has made it possible for me to make new friends and I thank you so very much :). I promise to have more confidence in my people skills and be less shy about making new friends and I promise to share my beautiful smile with others to brighten their days and I promise to keep these promises. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

I would like to start off by saying thank you for this day. You are very inspirational and I learned a lot. I really liked this workshop. I'm glad my teacher recommended me. No one has ever moved me as much as you did. I wish I can take a workshop like this again. You are an amazing motivator/speaker. I promise to take everything you told me today and I learned into consideration. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Thank you for coming here in Madonna school. Thanks for the things you did for us, and make us realize that at some point we can be leader even how small or big it is. I know I didn't become a leader in my group but in myself I know some day that I can do all the things you teach to us. I wish you more power and you help more people to realize what they can be. I promise that I do my best every time to help myself and other people here in Madonna. I promise that I'll do my best to keep this promise. Again, thanks for everything. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Thank you for today. You have made me learn new thing and make new friends. You have shown me that there are other people who feel the way I do. I learned that certain things annoy people when they talk to me and that somethings seem to annoy me too. I have noticed that some people's lives are harder than mine and that I shouldn't be upset all the time when I have the least of troubles. I promise to be a better person and start conversations with people. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, When I first walked in, I thought we all are just going to play around, meet new people and watch a movie. But well I was so wrong. I had the best time here, met all new people, you made me feel special, safe and welcome. The most emotional part is when we all had to be honest and we had to cross the line. I see all the girls start to break down. I feel that a whole lift come out of my chest. Thank you for that. One thing I promise to you is that I will be always be concern about others. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for this experience, it really opened my eyes to so many things I experienced and learned today. You showed us how to work together and put us in groups so we can co-operate with each other, for us to be a leader, to be respectful and get to know people who we usually would associate with. The line game made me realize how many people had stuff on their shoulders and people who had the same problems like me. It really surprise me about how emotional some people got that they were hiding inside. Now, everyday when I enter the school I would talk to people and give them an ear if they need someone to listen. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Hi Jack, I really enjoyed this leadership workshop! It wasn't boring at all :). The "Cross the line" game made me realize that we're NEVER ALONE! People will always be there and I know I'll be there too. I'm going to be my normal self: outgoing, humorous and loving & I promise to improve my listening skills! Anyways, it was nice meeting you. Come back to visit! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you very much for this awesome day! I had tons of fun and learned a lot today. You helped me express myself better and gave me more strength and hope. I loved this session, and would love to see you again :). My promise to be more involved in the Madonna community. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, This was a very emotional experience and I learned a lot. I learned to trust, to accept and to forgive others. Hopefully I keep these lessons with me for the rest of my life. This was a truly unique experience and I hope I will be able to do this again. I hope to repay my school by being the girl anyone can talk to. I want to make people feel welcomed and loved. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for this DAY! For letting us express our feelings with you on this day :). I learned a lot today, and I hope you can come again! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Everything I learned today will be very useful. I can help other people with problems and going through hard times. My promise is to help students feel more comfortable. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program

Dear Jack, Thank you for the experience I had. I think it was a good opportunity to experience. It made me think of things differently on what I do and think. Hearing other opinions on other people made me realize you don't know what they have been through so don't be so quick to judge them and let them be accepted for who they are. But it also made me trust people more and let them know how I feel and what's going on. Hearing them share their stories made me see that other too have difficulties in life. It also made me closer to people in my life right now so thank you for the great experience. You are a good teacher and I didn't dislike anything that you did. Maybe some group activities because I'm shy but it helped me out more so it was okay. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, Thank you very much for giving up your time to help try and better people lives. I know you helped me because you showed that I am not the only child who has problems. People are going through the same things as me and probably worse. You/this workshop showed me that I have to be thankful for what I got and the people I know. This is most definitely a good workshop cause it helps people (well, most people) see that there are people who care and understand you. Thank you once again. Sincerely, M. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, What I most enjoyed about this workshop is how you picked random people in our class for group leaders. By doing this, it allowed me to communicate better with my peers. Since I was in a group with random people, I was forced to talk and this helped build my communication skills. Thank you. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, Thank you for coming to help us throughout this workshop. This improved my communication skills a lot. Come back to Bosco next year to help the next ones doing this activity. There's really nothing to improve on since the workshops were successful. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, I would like to thank you for firstly coming to our school and allowing us to have this experience. I would also like to thank you for helping me open up to people about vulnerable moments in my life. I truly think we made a difference in some of these grade eights' lives. It's hard to open up to your peers especially at such a young age of about 12-13. I know some kids try to put on a fake persona so others don't see them hurting on the inside. I think somehow we managed to help some of these kids see through each others' persona and sympathize with their peers. As for your personality, I can't say one bad thing about the way you run things. I think your style is fun and effective. Again, thank you for everything. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, I really want to thank you for coming and doing this workshop with us. I never told my story to so many people I never thought to trust. I never wrote down my life story and let someone beside myself read it. I now feel more comfortable talking about my story. I know deep down it still bothers me very much and I am very hurt by it all but I feel on the outside I don't mind. I enjoyed the in class workshops much more than when we went to the actual schools. Maybe because it was deeper than when we were at the school or maybe because you got more emotion out of us or maybe because we're much older than those students were. I'm not sure but I appreciate it a lot. At every school, I feel like you said less and less more personal questions when it came to crossing the line. I feel that that was the one thing that really broke the kids down. I also know these workshops have a limited number of time but I also feel like a lot of it was rushed. Students would feel a bit cut off because they couldn't finish their discussion or they couldn't finish or hear all the stories. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, First off, thank you for taking your time to come here and do this workshop with us. It gave me an experience to go out and find difficulties I need to improve on when approaching new things in life (communicating with strangers, etc.). I really admire how you're such an easy-going and passionate guy. You did a great job assisting us and it was something new and a bit out of the comfort zone, but nonetheless it really opened my eyes to the different types of people there are. The workshops were decent and fun to do I guess, however, I felt rushed changing from one activity to the next with the booklet. Not enough time was given for the kids to think and write. Overall that was one of the flaws during the workshops. Thank you for everything! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, This experience with the younger students was interesting and inspiring. I felt that I have had done a pretty good job in reaching out, and also learned to do better with communication, thanks to your workshop training sessions. Although these workshops were surely successful and moving for the students at the other schools, I feel that there were a bit too much fun and activities that happened that might cause the students to not take the lessons and advice seriously. And when they were paying attention, there wasn't much time to do the serious talking and sharing of feelings with the booklet. Nevertheless, the experience was successful and has affected many of the students, including myself. Thank you for your time and knowledge you spent and shared with each of us. I hope for the best of your other inspiring journeys. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, First foremost, I wanna say thank you for such a wonderful experience. The workshop was great! The first few workshops that was in class made everyone know a little bit about each one of us and in a way made us respect one another. When we went to the first workshop with the grade 8's, I didn't know what to do and how to do it. But when you gave instructions, it made me felt comfortable and at ease. For me, the only problem was the time. I feel like I could've done more than what I did and made more kids trust me and I can change their life by letting them know someone's always there to listen and care. Thanks! (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, Thank you for working with us on this workshop because without you this wouldn't be happening. Jack, you believed that we could do this workshop when others said we cannot. In addition, you made us learn a lot about communication, body language, eye contact and patience, little things that make our attitudes better. We all thank you for the work that opened us to think beyond. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 18, grade 12

Dear Jack, I would like to thank you for this amazing experience. I think you really did a job at the workshop because you made those students to make a difference in their life and without you we couldn't done it. I hope you will still continue this workshop because it does really help a lot of students. By the way, you are the coolest guy I've ever met because you're funny and really amazing person ever. I hope I'll see you around a don't forget to visit us. Lots of love, Kristina M. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, I think you are of the coolest older person I've met. I admire the way you were able to lead a bunch (of) teenagers to do something meaningful with their time. I don't think I have anything I would want you to change about how you handled the workshops because you treated everyone with respect and you always tried to make every single one of the grade 8's feel special with the way you would ask them a question and give them your full attention when they answered it. I look up to the confidence you have and hope to see you in the near future. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, I had a really nice time for the anti-bullying workshop. This workshop made me experience a lot of things and that younger children need help. And I really thank you for letting me in this workshop and seriously it changed, especially the water line. I liked it and made me see and that's true. So thank you, you helped me be a better man and if we have another workshop I will be happy to help. So thank you. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, I thank you for this wonderful experience. It was a great life lesson and the benefits of it are worthwhile. I did feel like the sessions in the schools were too short and rushed. I like the games and activities you did with us. The cross the line activity was my overall favourite. I didn't like how you always paced around, it usually made me nervous. Overall I felt the workshop was amazing and good for everyone to experience. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

Dear Jack, Thank you (for) this experience. Without you, I wouldn't be more open to my feelings. I have always hid my darkness feelings that I never tell my best friends or anyone. The way you did the workshop was well organized. It was too bad there were times it was sped up and I had to rush the students or make them skip a few things in the booklets. Especially the web activity in the booklet. The activity games made us to be like friends and the booklets gave us time to be deeply in thought. The one-on-one/two was a great idea. Sometimes I couldn't cooperate with my partner and we would be doing different things but it still worked out well. I definitely love the workshop you held for us only (w/o the elementary kids). It brought tears and getting together. Although the activities sometimes made us wander off. I like the group chatting, telling each other what we like, love and tell thing about ourselves that the other wouldn't know. The "crossing the line" was especially touchy/touching. I love that part. And you, are a leader I look up to and look back the next couple of years or more. Thank you again and I love you. You bought colours to my world and many others. Maureen T. (original message)

Leader's Quest Program age 17, grade 11

I expected to be bored out of my mind and yes, I enjoyed the experience because it truly helped me open out and lift a huge burden off my shoulders. Thanks, I really felt like I could open out to you. You gave me the opportunity to be honest about myself in front of my mother, something that I never wanted to do. So thanks again and good luck in your future endeavours. PS. I love the way you deal with kids. Your daughter is lucky.

Student attended My Family Talks Workshop

Smile when the good times come, and cry to express your emotion. Do not be afraid to cry. Great time, loved meeting new people and opening up. Thanks so much for helping me open up easier and for helping me find my true self!

Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

I enjoy the experience and it was really fun making friends that I did not know. Thanks for this wonderful experience.

Student attended My Family Talks Workshop

I expected it to be a boring day. I learned that I am actually very unfair to my mom. It was a very safe space because everyone came here for the same reason. Talking to another parent really helped. It was like if you can tell a stranger, why cannot you tell your mom? I feel a lot closer to my mom and even my brother. I was surprised at how much positive change came out of this. I enjoy the experience because I think I will change for the better for this. Note to Jack: You were a very good, enthusiastic instructor. Thank you.

Student attending My Family Talks Workshop

I enjoyed the experience because I met new people. Thanks for getting our family together.

Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

I find this workshop safe because you can talk to people that is going through the same things. I enjoy myself. I have met new people and talk. Thanks for this wonderful workshop. It was fun and sad at the same time.

Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

Thank you for showing me ways to respond and to keep under control.

Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

I expected it to be fun and it really was. It enlightened me that there were so many people just like me and that we all understood each other. I learned that lots of people cared and were willing to help whoever needed it. I learned that I enjoy meeting new people. I think the workshop was an awesome place to express myself because no one here was going to judge me or comment on how I was acting. I feel closer to my mother after this experience because I learned we both have the same goals. I enjoyed it because I found how many good, sweet and nice people there are. It was an awesome experience and I hope I get to come again sometime. I had a great time and it really brought my family and I together. It feel great that we understand each other so completely now.

Student attended My Family Talks Workshop

Dear Jack, I did enjoy the experience because I feel that it has in some way made me realize the hardships of being a parent that I had not realized before. Thank you so much for presenting this opportunity to me. I appreciate your way of showing me that there are people out there feeling the same way as me. It was an eye opener to see how much our parents were like us considering the fact that we think we are so different. Thank you once again. I will try to take as much as possible from this workshop. PS. Candace is such a lucky child to have a father who can teach her all that you have taught us.

Parent attended My Family Talks Workshop

I'm really thankful you both came to GL Roberts because there are so many students not accepting themselves & every student that came today & yesterday greatly benefited from your program. There are things I never would have let out by talking normally with my friends, things that I needed to get out to move on. This also brought into the light what all my peers have gone through. I have more respect for everyone now. This has definitely opened my eyes in a good way. I think every teen should have this experience during their high school years. I loved it. (original message)

Brooke age 15, grade 10

I really appreciate you coming to G.L. an letting us share our feelings. In November I did the program and it'll never get old to me. I wouldn't mind doing this 100 more times. I hope grade 9's or even every grade from grade 6 & higher can get this chance. I can honestly say that I've made friends that I thought I would never make. I want to say thank you very much and you're like angels on earth. God bless you. Sincerely. (original message)

Student age 17, grade 12

I really enjoyed your program today. It made me realize that people have really serious problems that I never knew about. It also persuaded me to stop and help prevent bullying in G.L. and wherever I do. Thanks, Jack and Jim. (original message)

Aaron age 15, grade 10

Quest I'm On is a great program. I was very surprised about how much we all learned about each other and ourselves. I learned that I am not alone and there are others out there dealing with the same problems as me. I think this was helpful for everyone and I also feel a lot closer to some of my friends and people I barely knew. (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10

Even with all this emotion in this room, it seems hard to be able to express these emotions or cry. But, with this presentation, it's helped me open up a lot more with my friends, or even people I don't know. This day has changed my life in every aspect by the way I feel, and how I feel about others. Thank you. (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10

Thank you so much. I have felt so alone and unwanted. It's so hard for me to find that one person that I can talk to. The last couple days me and my mom have been butting heads. She took her anger out on me and hit me. This made me feel so helpless. No one to go to with my problems but finding these people that understand is wonderful but still feeling unwanted at times. Love. (original message)

Katrina age 15, grade 10

I just want to thank you for having this program. Whether I realize it or not, I've connected with people that I never saw in the school before yet they still go to it. This program helped me a whole lot by letting my thoughts, expressions and feelings out to others. It also helped me understand that I'm not alone as well as making new friends. It helps me trust people more and to connect with others as well as myself. I think this should happen every year just so we can make this school, world a better place to live/be in. It's an awesome program and I hope to see you guys again soon. (original message)

Ashley age 15, grade 10

I'm thankful that you came to our school to discuss our quest. I loved all the activities. It helped me and teached me at the same time. Jack, your methods are amazing and I give you credit to come in our school and adapt. This was no easy task but you never know you're probably used to an audience. I don't know how you could pinpoint our past. But your experience shows your knowledge and expresses your inner self. (original message)

Timothy age 15, grade 10

I want to thank you for a wonderful experience. The environment that you created made everyone feel safe & that we could be honest about ourselves & our feelings. I really do believe that together we have made a difference in many lives today. I truly thank you both for what you are doing. You are both wonderful people. (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10 

I was grateful that you came here to do this. If you didn't a lot of people would still feel left out and like no one cares. You helped everyone up. I had never told anyone that I cry myself to sleep just about every night. I also never told anyone that I thought about committing suicide. I learned so much about other people. I met people that I would never have talked to if it wasn't for this. I think that this experience is a life changing thing I think that they should do something like this with the grade 9's. (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10

Thank you! What you brought to our school is "Hope". Hope for a better tomorrow. Hope that if we believe in ourselves and in each other, we can truly make a difference. Our school is broken in ways that most people can't even comprehend. Today marks the first day of healing. You made us aware of our ignorances, our biases and showed us how our actions impact others. I learned how much alike we all are. The cause of the hurt may be different but the pain is the same. I will never look at the other people in this room the same way again. They are individuals who I will accept and respect for who they are & not how they appear. I haven't looked at us as "lucky" before, but today I think we are just that. Lucky to have had the opportunity to get to really know ourselves and the other people in this room. Thank you, thank you, thank you. (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10

Well this is second time coming to Quest I'm On and all I can say is you got me again! You guys are probably the best speakers I have ever heard and you just inspire me so much to grow and do something like this when I'm older. The hardest parts of today was during the crossing the line game when the questions popped up about knowing anyone you loved that died in a tragic accident. It just brings back memories and the hurt I felt when it happened. The other one was anyone in this room ever hurt you. It hurts even more when you see someone cross the line because of you. I learnt that you don't have to hide behind a mask and there are a lot of people out there that do care and won't judge you by the way you look. I feel even safer with you guys and everyone in this room. Thank you so much for the experiences you've given me and I always keep this deep in my heart and my soul. (original message)

Josh age 17, grade 12 

I really wasn't going to come today but I glad I did come. You guys were a blast. I wish that we could get you to come back and do this again. Your program Quest I'm On is really great and you guys have to be amazing that you can go through all of this. I hope that you come back. (original message)

Cody age 15, grade 10

Today has been intense and scary. I never felt so vulnerable in my entire life and I have never felt so hurt. It was amazing. At first I was skeptical. What will we do? How will this affect me? What's the point? Why do only I feel this way? I was afraid of you both. Now, I can honestly say this was the best thing in my entire life. I was never afraid to cry, I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to cry. I have seen tears and faces filled with anguish. I have hurt some of these people and some have hurt me. To them, I am forever sorry. I have no doubt that I will take this with me until the end of my days. My group held people who I never really knew, I only seen them on the surface. I told things I never realized I was feeling and being an insidious individual, I let it all out. Thank you so much. I thought I knew, I was so ignorant. I will probably keep my guard up still but now I won't be so harsh. Sometimes people just want to help. I do not pity those who have dealt with the things we discussed today, I feel for them. You taught us so much and I really hope we gave you something that you will hold on to forever. (original message)

Erica age 15, grade 10

This was a very powerful experience. I found that the activities encouraged people to truly look within themselves - explore their feelings - explore the reasons for the way they present themselves to others and to consider ways in which they can change themselves. I think that participants have developed more tolerance for others who they may have felt were so very different than them. Everyone has difficulties in their life - all of us face challenges. We need each other to feel safe in this world. (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10

I feel that your program has helped me get past a 10 year struggle with losing my father. I feel not only can I "not" alone but I truly do feel like someone close care. Jack, you're an amazing guy who I honestly will always remember this moment. And the program has helped me get to know the people at the school a little better, considering I just transferred here from Central. And just in case you're wondering who this is, I'm the student you personally called a "role model" for the grade 10's. I really appreciate that, thank you so much for all of your guys efforts and you two are the most by far caring set of brothers I have ever met. (original message)

Dominic age 15, grade 10

Thank you for today. I came in here this morning thinking it would be gay and I wasn't going to come. But it turned out to be alright. The best activity (the line) was very emotional but I feel a lot better letting it out and for that I thank you guys very much. (original message)

Angela age 15, grade 10 

This was a very interesting and nothing like I expected. It really helped us bond and I feel closer to everyone now. Walk the line was very touching and it showed how people really felt. People who were shut tight opened up and showed their emotions. I'm glad to have had the chance to do this and hope you keep helping others. Thanks. (original message)

Brandyn age 15, grade 10

Thank you so much! If it wasn't for you coming today I wouldn't have learned so much about others in my school. And no one would have known the real me. I finally got to get so much off my chest. Stuff that I have been holding in for a very long time. It's usually really hard for me but today I felt comfortable to share my feelings and just cry. It takes a lot for me but today it didn't So thank you. I also made a new friend today. And usually I just stay in the background and stick to myself or my few friends. But today I stool up and spoke in front of everyone. This is an experience I will never forget and that I am so glad I had. So once again thanks so much! (original message)

Student age 15, grade 10