My past four years participating in the St. Andre Bessette Service and Justice Program have been nothing short of a transformative experience, particularly in how it has shaped my understanding of the distinction between charity and justice. While both involve helping others, charity often serves as a temporary fix, providing immediate aid to alleviate suffering, such as donating food or clothing to those in need. In contrast, justice delves deeper into the root causes of inequality, striving to dismantle systemic barriers and foster lasting change.

Through my involvement in the St. Andre Bessette Service and Justice Program, I’ve gained a broader perspective on the interconnectedness of service and justice. I’ve come to understand that service is not about lending a helping hand; it’s about championing equity, empowerment, and systemic change. Guided by this revelation, I am propelled to continue advocating for justice, both within my community and beyond its borders, recognizing that true service encompasses a relentless pursuit of fairness and equality for all.

Through various service opportunities, I have come to understand that my favorite form of service involves giving back to the communities that have become familiar settings for me. Through Gilmour, I’ve held leadership roles as a C2AC leader and student ambassador. I’ve acted as a referee and scorekeeper for the Catholic Youth Organization, the same program I grew up playing sports through. I’ve volunteered at my church’s Vacation Bible Schools each summer, and this past summer was a Counselor-in-Training at Camp Christopher, the sleepaway camp I grew up attending. Through these experiences, I’ve come to realize the profound joy and fulfillment that I receive from giving back, and have discovered immeasurable fulfillment in these acts of reciprocity.

One memorable experience that highlighted this fulfillment was volunteering at my local pool’s charity water show. The show is a long-standing tradition in my town and attracts hundreds of spectators each year to enjoy a showcase of the aquatic and theatrical talents of over fifty Learn-to-Swim participants, swim team swimmers, summer campers, and pool staff. The annual themed shows, sponsored by local businesses, doubles as a fundraiser for underprivileged children to learn how to swim. 

Volunteering at my local pool’s charity water show, an event I had once eagerly attended as a spectator, offered a unique perspective on the immeasurable fulfillment found in acts of reciprocity. Seeing the familiar faces of friends and neighbors gathered to support a cause dear to my heart filled me with a profound sense of connection and community. Knowing that my participation could make a difference in providing underprivileged children with life-saving swimming lessons added a deeper layer of purpose to the event. As I contributed my time and effort, I felt a profound sense of fulfillment in giving back to the very community that had enriched my own upbringing. This experience served as a powerful reminder of the reciprocal nature of service, where the joy of giving is matched only by the gratitude received, weaving a tapestry of interconnectedness that binds us all together in shared humanity.

As my time at Gilmour quickly draws to a close, the lessons I’ve learned and the values I’ve internalized will endure, guiding my ongoing journey of service and advocacy. The St. Andre Bessette Service and Justice Program has instilled in me a deep sense of purpose and responsibility toward serving others. I am dedicated in my commitment to catalyzing positive change, striving to forge a more compassionate and equitable world. Through ongoing engagement and a steadfast dedication to addressing the root causes of inequality, I am determined to carry forward the spirit of service instilled in me by Gilmour, striving to create a more humane and just society for all.

I acted as a Student Ambassador at an open house at Saint Gabriel School in Painesville, answering the questions of prospective parents.

While at the Holy Cross Conference for Student Leaders in Notre Dame, Indiana, my friends and I got to help out at a local community shelter. We helped make and serve breakfast and coffee, helped with laundry, and worked in the Clothes Closet.

While at the Holy Cross Conference for Student Leaders in Notre Dame, Indiana, my friends and I got to witness a variety of talks about a variety of subjects, like some of the chaperones, the Holy Cross Brothers, and even some nuns!

I acted as a Student Ambassador at an open house at Saint Gabriel School in Painesville, answering the questions of prospective parents.

At the beginning of the year, I volunteered at Freshman Gateway. As a junior, I got to give advice to the new freshman about how to make the most of their time at Gilmour.

My Spanish IV Pre AP class translated letters from orphans in El Salvador to their sponsors in America.

Every year, my city (Willowick) holds an annual water show to raise funds for our local pools, and other causes important to us. As a lifeguard, I was given the opportunity to volunteer my time to not only help out with the kids but also perform in the show.

I spent my morning as a timer for my town's local SSL swim team, the Willowick Wildkats. I stood in the heat, with nothing but my water bottle with me, and gave up precious hours of sleep for those kids.

I spent the evening partnered with a freshman advisory. I answered questions, led tours, and facilitated conversation throughout the night.

I spent my Monday morning leading Gilmour's fourth-grade retreat. I helped to lead activities, and keep the students focused during lectures and videos. I also helped engage them during games and songs.

I spent my Monday morning leading Gilmour's fifth-grade retreat. I helped to lead activities, and keep the students focused during lectures and videos. I also helped engage them during games and songs.

As a Sophomore Leader, my friends and I were given the opportunity to lead Gilmour's seventh graders in their retreat. Throughout the day we helped lead activities, took the students on a Jesus walk, supervised lunch, and participated in mass.

I worked as an Admissions Ambassador at the Fall Open House last October. I lead a family on a tour around the school, answering all of their questions and providing them an insight into life at Gilmour.

I spent my afternoon as a volunteer scorer for CYO basketball games being held on campus.

I worked as a Student Ambassador during this year's Middle and Upper School Meet the Teacher Night. I greeted parents at the front doors, answered questions, and guided parents between buildings.