Senior
Hallie Stacho joined six other NDCL students who took time out of their
summer vacation to work with students and teachers from four other
Sisters of Notre Dame schools and Notre Dame College for one common
reason: to reach out to the less fortunate in the Cleveland area.
The
Sisters of Notre Dame Summer Service Experience has the goals of helping others
and learning more about the charism and work of the Sisters of Notre Dame.
During this experience, NDCL students meet and work with students from other
SND-sponsored or staffed schools in our area and from as far away as Florida.
The reality of urban poverty in the Cleveland area is made known through work
with people who are refugees, homeless persons, children in crisis, and the
disadvantaged.
"This
experience opened my eyes and made me realize that there are people
that need our help right here in Cleveland. I was able to take time out
of my summer vacation and stretch my heart and reach out," Hallie said.
Seniors Chris Capretta, Shante Harding, Cassandra Kinzig, Erin Pioch, and Tom Somrack also participated in the Summer Serivce Experience with business teacher Mrs. Kay McNulty, and Director of Campus Ministry Mr. Greg Welch. "In-depth
experiences like this touch
on every one of our core values," said Welch. "They broaden our sense of community to include
our brothers and sisters in other places. They help us to learn respect for
others and from others."
In
addition to her summer service experience, Hallie also participated in
the Nicaragua Immersion Trip with her classmates over Easter break. "I
find joy and happiness in serving others, not only because I am helping
them, but they are helping me too. Every time I serve the needy I feel
that a part of me has changed for the better. I feel more compassionate
and understanding."