Service & Outreach
Think. Lead. SERVE.
At St. Joseph Regional High School, we are dedicated to developing the Vir Fidelis, the Faithful Man, who lives out his faith through humble and meaningful service. Guided by our Campus Ministry and Theology Departments, the 2024-2025 SJR Service Plan provides opportunities for students to deepen their relationship with God, serve others, and grow as leaders.
This year’s plan emphasizes serving God, our school, parish, and local community, inspired by our patron saint, St. Joseph.
Volunteer Hours and Reflection Essay
Requirements:
- Volunteer Hours: All students must complete a minimum of 10 hours of service.
- First 5 hours due: Friday, January 10, 2025
- Remaining hours due: Monday, June 6, 2025
- Reflection Essay: After completing 10 hours, each student will write a one-page reflection essay about their service experiences. This essay accounts for 10% of the Theology grade and must be submitted by June 6, 2025.
Encouragement: Students are welcome to exceed the 10-hour requirement but are only required to submit one reflection essay.
Service Opportunities
Students can choose service projects offered through SJR or pursue external opportunities that align with the guidelines below.
Examples of In-House Service Projects:
- School-wide drives: Halloween Candy Drive, Thanksgiving Food Drive, Christmas Toy Drive
- SJR Sandwich Club
- Trips to Mercy House in Newark
- Visiting senior living facilities or serving at soup kitchens
Qualifying Service Guidelines
Eligible Projects:
- Directly benefit people (e.g., children, elderly, poor, handicapped, or disadvantaged individuals).
- Must be above and beyond family or group responsibilities, such as:
- Household chores or babysitting for relatives or neighbors.
- Duties tied to organizations like National Honor Society or sports programs.
Additional Notes:
- Students cannot leave school early for service unless participating in an SJR-sponsored project.
- If unsure about a project, consult your Theology teacher or Mrs. Podest in Campus Ministry.
Non-Qualifying Service Examples
- Paid work or anything done for a for-profit organization.
- Coaching for-profit sports programs or leagues.
- Babysitting or helping neighbors with tasks they can do themselves.
- Assisting political organizations (unless it is a community-wide charitable event).
- Service benefiting anyone older than 6th grade (except for the handicapped).
Service must benefit the community at large and align with the mission to help the poor, elderly, handicapped, or disadvantaged.
Suggestions for Service Projects
Students are encouraged to find projects aligned with their interests or family values. Here are some ideas:
- Volunteering at a blood bank or charity organization
- Coaching grammar school children (6th grade or below)
- Assisting at a nursing home, assisted living facility, or hospital
- Participating in environmental clean-ups or serving at a food pantry
- Working with Habitat for Humanity or Special Olympics
- Volunteering with local groups like the Knights of Columbus or a parish youth group
Recognition for Outstanding Service
SJR celebrates exceptional service contributions:
- Service Awards are presented to seniors who demonstrate meaningful commitment and accumulate the highest service hours.
- Theology teachers may offer additional incentives and recognition for exemplary service.
Important Dates
- First 5 Hours Due: Friday, January 10, 2025
- Remaining Hours & Reflection Essay Due: Monday, June 6, 2025
For questions or guidance, contact your Theology teacher or Mrs. Podest in Campus Ministry. Let’s come together as brothers who serve and make a lasting impact in our communities!
