Beaufort and Jasper Countians Unite for JPII Day of Service
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, students, faculty, and staff from John Paul II Catholic School took a day out of their busy schedules on October 21 to give back to their neighbors in Beaufort and Jasper counties. This year’s JPII Day of Service was a remarkable affair, marking the school’s most extensive outreach event yet, as they partnered with over 24 local organizations to roll up their sleeves for a variety of service projects.
A Day Dedicated to Helping Others
This school-wide initiative allowed the JPII community to immerse themselves in an array of benevolent activities ranging from environmental conservation to hunger relief, elderly care, animal rescue, and so much more. The students were eager to spread joy and positivity across multiple locations within their counties.
Connor Brown, a senior from Bluffton, expressed his enthusiasm about the day. He said, “A day like today means helping others while doing good acts, which makes me feel good. Any act of service that we can do that benefits others is a positive.” His sentiment echoed throughout the campus as students embraced the opportunity to make a difference.
Hands-On Contributions at Various Sites
Among the many locations where students lent their hands were the Agape Family Life Center in Hardeeville, the Jasper Animal Rescue Mission in Ridgeland, and the Mercy Mission also in Hardeeville, just to name a few. They tackled a variety of tasks that catered to the specific needs of these organizations.
At the Agape Family Life Center, students unloaded a food truck and helped tidy up around the venue. Meanwhile, a group of hardworking volunteers at the Jasper Animal Rescue Mission assembled kennels and cleaned the facility. Those who visited Mercy Mission rolled up their sleeves to sort clothes and assist in cleaning up, lending a helping hand wherever it was needed most.
Community Support and Appreciation
The spirit of community service was also highlighted by Bluffton Councilwoman Bridgette Frazier, who greeted the students working at Jaxville Cemetery. These students dedicated their time to helping clean the cemetery grounds, and it was clear that their work made a significant impact.
Trice McClure, a senior and resident of Ridgeland, shared how meaningful the day was to her. “To me, the JPII Day of Service is a way I can give back to my community with my friends and gain a better appreciation for everything that I have been given,” she reflected, embodying the core values of service and gratitude.
Fun While Doing Good
Many students also found joy in giving back. Alejandro Fernandez, a junior from Bluffton, expressed his enthusiasm about participating in the Day of Service. “I think that all our students feel good participating in our Day of Service. Everyone is having a great time. Service is fun. It doesn’t have to be manual labor. We are out here having fun with our friends and we are all taking something good out of it,” he said.
Living Out Their Faith
Principal Heather Rembold articulated the deeper significance of the event, stating, “Through our Day of Service, we not only give back to the community but also put our faith into action as ambassadors for Christ. Our students are not only learning the value of community service, but also how to live out the call to be scholars with a soul.”
Ultimately, this year’s JPII Day of Service not only reinforced the school’s commitment to community engagement but also cultivated lasting memories and friendships among students and staff while positively impacting the lives of others throughout Beaufort and Jasper counties.
