Ways for Rockets to give back to their fellow neighbors

At McNicholas, students are provided opportunities to serve the community and are expected to do so by the time they graduate. By the end of freshman and sophomore years, students need 20 service hours, and another 20 before graduation, but due to the many resources McNick has to offer, many students exceed this expectation.

This requirement can be easily accomplished by students making it a priority and checking the McNick service opportunities page on Schoology. This page is updated regularly giving students different service project options to fit their passions. Teachers upload opportunities that students can become involved in by using the sign-up genius link attached and sign up for when they are available.

“Put yourself out there, get out of your comfort zone,” Math Department chair Mrs. Ashley Brothers said.

Whether the service is through a parish, McNick, or local community organizations, taking the small steps to branch out makes an impact to the community built around us.

Brothers added, “Talk to teachers. There’s a lot of organizations that several of us are involved in that we are passionate about.” McNick has multiple resources, many that are local, available for students to access to be able to expand their awareness of our neighbors. There are so many places that are thrilled to see student involvement in service like St. Vincent De Paul, Stepping Stones, SEM food pantry, May We Help, and Camp Gaudeo.

Groups such as Catholic Relief Services, Hands Across Campus, and St. Vincent De Paul Youth Conference offer students endless chances to grow in their faith through the service they do right here at McNick. This includes going to food pantries and assisting clients with getting groceries, attending the SEM Haven Senior Prom, and cleaning and helping maintain local cemeteries, especially helping mark military graves. Students who are interested in becoming involved can sign up directly on the Service Schoology Page Sign-up Genius.

Seniors are given the opportunity to go on a fall or spring Appalachia retreat each year where they assist Glenmary Home Missioners in Rutledge County, Tennessee. Not only do they assist with home repairs, but they build relationships with those they’re serving and gain new experiences in the service world.