In an era where real-world skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving are more important than ever, schools are seeking innovative ways to engage students and prepare them for life beyond the classroom. Community On Demand offers a dynamic solution: a game-based learning experience that helps students build essential skills while addressing real community challenges. Here’s how schools can pilot Community On Demand to inspire students, engage the community, and create lasting impact.
What Is Community On Demand?
Community On Demand is an interactive game that combines skill-building with community engagement. Using tools like the Community On Demand Card Deck and The Stakeholder’s Dilemma Canvas Model, students tackle real-world challenges, develop practical skills, and experience the power of teamwork. This program is designed to be flexible, scalable, and adaptable to a variety of school settings—from classrooms to after-school programs, and even as a community-wide initiative.
Why Pilot Community On Demand in Your School?
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Real-World Skill Development
Community On Demand gives students the opportunity to learn and apply skills in areas like leadership, financial literacy, and project management. By engaging in game-based activities, students experience hands-on learning that goes beyond theory, helping them build confidence and competence in skills they’ll use in college, careers, and beyond. -
Community Engagement
Through The Stakeholder’s Dilemma, students work on projects that address real socio-economic challenges in their communities. This focus on community impact fosters a sense of responsibility and empowers students to contribute to their surroundings. By connecting classroom learning with local needs, Community On Demand turns students into change agents who are invested in their community’s well-being. -
Flexible & Scalable
The program is designed to fit within existing school structures, making it easy to integrate into current curricula, after-school programs, or special projects. Schools can start with a small group of students or pilot the program across multiple classes, gradually scaling up based on student interest and community needs.
How to Pilot Community On Demand in Your School
Ready to bring Community On Demand to your school? Here’s a step-by-step guide to piloting the program:
1. Identify Your Pilot Group
- Begin with a class, after-school club, or group of student leaders who are eager to take on a new challenge. Ideal groups include high school students, career pathway students, or any group interested in community service, entrepreneurship, or project-based learning.
2. Introduce the Program and Core Tools
- Start by introducing the core tools of Community On Demand:
- The Community On Demand Card Deck: This set of skill cards covers key areas like leadership, entrepreneurship, and workforce readiness. Each card represents a skill students can apply to their projects.
- The Stakeholder’s Dilemma Canvas Model: A visual roadmap that guides students through the problem-solving process, from defining the problem to tracking their impact.
- Explain how these tools will help students work together, develop strategies, and track their progress toward a real community impact.
3. Host an Introductory Play Date
- Organize a Community On Demand Play Date to kick off the pilot. During this event, students complete their skills assessments, learn how to use the card deck, and engage in their first Stakeholder’s Dilemma session. This introductory experience helps students understand the game mechanics and start forming their project ideas.
4. Guide Students Through a Real-World Challenge
- Present a community-related problem or let students choose a challenge they want to address. Using the Stakeholder’s Dilemma Canvas Model, students will break down the problem, identify key stakeholders, and brainstorm potential solutions.
- Throughout the project, students use their skill cards to build strategies, allocate resources, and make decisions that align with their goals.
5. Encourage Collaboration with Community Partners
- Invite local businesses, community leaders, or nonprofits to participate as mentors, advisors, or “investors” in the students’ projects. This collaboration brings real-world expertise into the classroom and strengthens the bond between the school and the community.
6. Track and Celebrate Progress
- Use the Community Impact Meter to track students’ Social Return on Investment (SROI) and celebrate their milestones. Encourage students to document their achievements, reflect on their learning, and present their projects at the end of the pilot.
- Host a showcase event where students present their projects to school staff, parents, and community members, demonstrating the skills they’ve developed and the impact they’ve made.
Tips for a Successful Pilot
- Start Small: Begin with a single class or club to work out the logistics before scaling up.
- Empower Student Leadership: Let students take the lead on their projects. Encourage them to assign roles, make decisions, and collaborate independently.
- Foster Reflection: Encourage students to reflect on their learning and track their personal growth throughout the project.
- Gather Feedback: After the pilot, ask students, teachers, and community partners for feedback on the experience to make improvements for future implementations.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re interested in piloting Community On Demand at your school, we’re here to support you! We offer a range of resources, including the Activity Toolkit that includes The Stakeholder’s Dilemma Canvas Model, a numbered guide, and critical questions to consider along the way. This toolkit is designed to give you everything you need for a smooth and impactful pilot experience.
Upgrade Your Pilot with Additional Resources
For an enhanced experience, consider adding the Community On Demand Card Deck to engage students with practical skills, and the Facilitator’s Guide for teachers to lead impactful sessions confidently.
👉 Ready to empower your students? Purchase the Community On Demand Activity Toolkit today, and take the first step toward building a culture of learning, collaboration, and community impact in your school.
With Community On Demand, you’re not just teaching students—you’re equipping them to become leaders and changemakers. Let’s build stronger communities, one project at a time!