Posted September 4, 2014

A group of students from Catholic Social Services’ high school summer program at Cardinal Bevilacqua Community Center in Kensington were honored at the 2014 Work Ready Program Expo, which highlighted the project efforts of 100 student groups from across Philadelphia.

Judges used 21^st century learning criteria — flexibility, adaptability, teamwork, collaboration, initiative, self-direction, productivity and accountability — to grade project entries in three different categories.

The CSS team garnered third place in the tri-fold category for their “Oddball Campaign” designed to raise awareness about peer pressure among teens and promote positive thinking by encouraging peers to “be true to themselves.”

The group conducted surveys about issues important to teens, and shared their findings via social media. The group designed promotional materials inviting teens to join the campaign.

The resulting student-led “Oddball community” believes that positive mindsets lead to better futures.