By Michael Kaminsky '24
Saint Joseph Regional High School seniors recently participated in the SJR Senior Day of Service on Friday, April 12th. Organized by the campus ministry department as a part of our school’s spring pride week, all seniors were committed to giving back to various communities both on and off campus. Prior to departing the building, students were made aware of their respective service sites ranging from food banks to senior living centers. After dividing into their groups, our seniors embarked on their service missions with enthusiasm and a desire to make a positive impact.
Among the locations were the Community Food Bank of New Jersey in Hillside, the school at Our Lady of Mercy in Park Ridge, Mercy House in Newark, Camp Acorn in Mahwah, Thrive Senior Living in Montvale, and our very own SJR campus. While some students assisted in making campers’ days more fun at Camp Acorn, others were washing wheelchairs at the senior center. Some groups sorted donations at the Community Food Bank and others organized the donations at the Mercy House. Many students helped on campus to finish the newly refurbished outdoor chapel in memory of long-time faculty member Deacon Joe Sisco. Despite the diverse range of activities, there was a common theme of compassion and service that made the day influential for many.
As our seniors finished their work and returned to the building, many students, including myself, reflected on their personal experience helping the community and on the satisfaction of knowing we made a difference. The day served as a reminder of the importance of service to our school, community, and faith. As seniors prepare to graduate, we can take pride in our collective efforts to create a positive change in our world that reflects well upon the school we are soon leaving.