Gun violence can feel like an issue that's too big to solve, but a determined group of students at Holy Trinity High School is proving that small actions can lead to significant change. Their initiative, 289 to Zero, isn't just a school project it's a movement. Inspired by personal loss and driven by a deep sense of purpose, these students are taking a stand, raising awareness, and making a tangible impact in their community.
The name 289 to Zero comes from a sobering reality: in 2023, 289 Canadians lost their lives to gun violence. That number isn't just a statistic for these students it's personal. After losing a close friend, they turned their grief into action, launching a campaign to fundraise and educate others. Their goal is bold but clear: work toward a future where that number becomes zero. And they aren't just hoping for change they're making it happen.
Building a Business for Change
The project is part of the OCSB Social Entrepreneurs Program (SEP), an initiative that allows students to develop innovative mindsets and gain valuable entrepreneurial experience. Through SEP, students work closely with a community partner to research important social issues choose a charity to support and build a social enterprise. In this case, the students have partnered with the Boys & Girls Club of Ottawa to raise money for youth programs that support kids in need.
Under the guidance of their teacher, Carolyn Hopewell, the students have created a business from the ground up. They designed and are selling wristbands and hoodies as part of the 289 to Zero brand, with all proceeds going directly to the Boys & Girls Club of Ottawa. The students have already raised over $2,000 to reach $5,000 to help provide free access to programs supporting youth in their community.
"We can make a change and help the world for the better by stopping gun violence and saving lives," said Luisa Santos, one of the students involved in the project.
Empowering Future Changemakers
The Social Entrepreneurs Program (SEP) encourages students to see themselves as global citizens capable of driving positive change. Through their involvement in 289 to Zero, students learn the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and translate their ideas into meaningful actions that benefit others. This hands-on experience empowers them to tackle social issues like gun violence proactively.
As Sarah Cybulski from the Boys & Girls Club of Ottawa shared, "When it's a group of kids who want to raise money to help other kids, that's always really special." The impact of this project goes far beyond fundraising it's a powerful demonstration of how youth can lead and inspire change.
At the Ottawa Catholic School Board, our Deep Learning approach focuses on developing essential competencies such as citizenship, character, communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity that help students navigate the challenges of an ever-evolving world. Projects like 289 to Zero foster these skills, empowering students to become compassionate, innovative global citizens who understand issues like gun violence and are equipped to create lasting solutions in their communities.
You can support the 289 to Zero movement by purchasing a wristband or pre-ordering a hoodie online at the 289 to Zero Store. Every purchase helps fund youth programs at the Boys & Girls Club of Ottawa, and each item symbolizes solidarity for the cause.
If you'd like to donate directly to the initiative, you can do so here: Donate to 289 to Zero.
A Lasting Legacy
Through this project, the students of Holy Trinity are learning business skills and making an indelible mark on their community. They embody the spirit of the OCSB Social Entrepreneurs Program finding ways to make a difference in the world and doing so with compassion, creativity, and commitment.
Together, we can support these students in their journey to reduce gun violence and create a safer, more inclusive world for everyone.
