We are part of a generation receiving more knowledge than ever before — through social media, the news, the Internet, and various other means. This is absolutely a gift; it allows us to grow up with an educated perspective and help others. Given that, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything happening in the world and helpless in the face of varying issues. But we don’t have to.
Our community — at CCHS and beyond — provides a variety of fantastic opportunities to help others, ranging from local to global issues. These programs benefit both the communities impacted and the individuals participating.
Cathedral provides students with various opportunities to make a difference through clubs, Mission and Ministry’s wonderful events, and the soon-to-be running food pantry. One of our community values is social justice, as we are called to share our gifts for the common good. Mr. Horejs, Cathedral’s new Director of Service Learning, remarks: “[Service learning is] a very beautiful way for us to live out our mission as Cathedral Catholic High School… [Serving others] is the core of what we’re doing.”
Cathedral’s service clubs are thriving and appeal to a vast range of interests, participating in numerous activities that make a difference. Being involved in a service club allows students to develop invaluable creativity, planning, and teamwork skills. “I love to think about all the gifts that we don’t even know about that exist here on campus,” Mr. Horejs ponders. “How can we use those, then, to address the needs of other people?”
Julia Sindici ‘26 is president of the Board Games for Senior Citizens club, which spends time with seniors at nursing homes. Julia shares: “I think joining clubs is a really good opportunity, that our school does a good job of helping students get involved with. Joining clubs helps you give back to other communities, and helps make people united.” Julia mentions that being a club leader has helped her develop strong communication and public speaking skills.
Daniela Bernitt ‘27 is the leader of the Build-a-Miracle Club, which goes on service trips to help build houses for less fortunate families. Being a club member has given Daniela real-world experiences and opened her eyes. “If you’re looking for a great way to give back to your community, meet new people, and really just get deeper with your faith… [joining a service club] is a great opportunity to learn more, and open your eyes to different environments that people live through,” Daniela explains.
Club Week took place from September 9-13, but many clubs are still open to new members.
Looking ahead, religion classes will begin serving in the new food pantry this autumn, donated by Zak Myers’ family and run by Catholic Charities Diocese of San Diego, a network of groups assisting those affected by food insecurity. It is in the final stages of being built, and should be functional around October. Classes will keep the pantry running, prepare food, and serve clients. Eventually, clubs, sports teams, and other organizations will be able to contribute as well. Our Mission and Ministry team is working hard to ready opportunities like these and others for students.
Beyond CCHS, programs in San Diego offer extensive opportunities. San Diego Magazine lists service programs for kids, teens, and families; from San Diego Humane Society, which supports animal safety, to Father Joe’s Villages, which provides services to the unhoused, local charitable organizations allow young people to make positive impacts. Assisted living programs, local shelters, and conservation groups are always looking for enthusiastic volunteers.
Issues that reach beyond the local community are also concerns. It is best to find charities that have well-documented, transparent impacts. However, this may not be the means that works for everyone. Researching issues you care about or want to know about is always helpful. This gives a more well-rounded understanding, and helps you educate others. Starting a club or hosting a fundraiser, if you have the time, can help you to raise both money and awareness.
CollegeBoard reports several benefits of volunteering as a high school student: life experience, connections, personal passions, and showing commitment to admissions officers. According to Berkeley’s GreaterGood Magazine, “[c]ompared to people who didn’t volunteer, people who had volunteered in the past year were more satisfied with their lives and rated their overall health as better… [P]eople who started to volunteer became happier over time.”
Service learning benefits the community around you, helps you find happiness and hope, and provides you with skills that will be invaluable in the long run. As you look for new activities, committing to a service learning program or a good cause might make incredible change in someone else’s life — and yours.
Remember: any act of goodness can make the difference someone needs and will make your own life better, too.
