Collaborating to Fight Human Trafficking: Students in Policing & Community Well-Being Drive Change through Experiential Learning in Durham
Students in Trent Durham program craft projects to benefit their learning as well as needs of local communities
Students in the Policing & Community Well-Being (PLCW) program at Trent Durham are tackling community safety and well-being issues through hands-on collaborations with the Region of Durham and Durham Regional Police Service's human trafficking unit.
In the third-year course, Problem-Solving in Diverse and Complex Communities (PLCW 3007H), students have the opportunity to collaborate with professionals in the field through CityStudio Durham. The course focuses on creating projects that can assist individuals who are at risk of human trafficking in the region. Each year, student projects demonstrate the value of practical learning experiences.
Dr. Amy Spendik, program coordinator of the PLCW program, emphasizes that the program's success lies in its symbiotic relationship. Community partners enhance student learning, and in return, students actively support the community.
“They know that their work will be received by people in positions of power who can make a difference, which motivates them to a much higher level of commitment," Professor Spendik says.
Speaking of her experience in the program, third-year student Keira Hack says: “This program has surpassed my expectations! I have had the best time learning and growing as a student and a person within the PLCW program. I have had countless opportunities for growth, leadership, and new experiences. Interacting with industry professionals gave me insight into how our learning impacts the community.” For her course project, Kiera developed standardized training for security guards to spot human trafficking using CCTV footage in retail spaces.
Student-led clothing drive supports women in Durham Region
One of the key successes of the course is actively involving students in addressing the immediate needs of women experiencing trafficking in the Region of Durham. This year, students organized a clothing drive and gathered impressive support, with more than 1,900 items collected to date. The initiative supports empathy and social responsibility while showcasing the program's unique experiential learning approach.
Learn more about Policing & Community Well-Being at Trent Durham.
