The commitment to service continued at Mount Mercy Academy during the cold month of February.  This year Campus Minister and senior theology teacher Mary Colby is asking members of the senior class to plan and coordinate a service project.The seniors continued their service projects with eight girls coordinating volunteer opportunities.

    Buffalo resident Shelina Slaughter organized a volunteer experience at the Boys and Girls After School Program at the Elmwood Village Charter School.  They helped the group leaders provide educational and recreational activities after a day of classes.

Taylor Stoklosa (Buffalo) and several other students worked with the Sisters of Mercy to create Valentine’s Day themed jars that will be used as centerpieces. 

    Mariah Rullan and Kathryn Bergmann of Buffalo each directed a team of volunteers at the Fantastic Friends event at the Ralph Wilson Field House.  This organization provides fun experiences for special needs children. “This was a great experience,” Rullan commented. “It forces people to expand their comfort zones and to interact with new people.”
    Anna Hagner of Buffalo led a team of volunteers at St. Luke’s Mission of Mercy.  The group helped package table settings for an upcoming event and had lunch with the students there.

    During Spirit Week Katherine Pappas of Buffalo organized a drive to support the International Institute of Buffalo.   The classes eagerly participated in the drive to collect new school supplies and had the extra benefit of earning spirit week points. This organization provides resources for refugee resettlement in Western New York.

Sydni Condoyannis of Dunkirk brought a group of volunteers to the Dunkirk Rural Ministry, an organization that provides hot meals for those in need.  This non-profit organization depends on donations from local partners and including a farm that donates eggs every week.

    Bridgit Hayes of Buffalo planned a dinner for the residents of Ronald McDonald House.  The meal consisted of shepherd’s pie, green salad, crescent rolls, and Oreo balls for dessert.  Hayes prepped the recipes, helped with the shopping and led the team to prep dinner for the guests.

    The Mount Mercy community continues to follow foundress Catherine McAuley’s vision of compassionate service and affirming the dignity and uniqueness of individuals.