Service

“I'm a little pencil in the hand of a writing God, who is sending a love letter to the world.”
-St. Teresa of Calcutta

At Oakland Catholic, we strive to be a pencil in God's hands through serving and loving His world whether that is cooking at a homeless shelter, tutoring school children or visiting those who are sick or lonely. This service to our brothers and sisters in our local communities weekly as well as annually through our national and international mission trips go far beyond simply completing a task but is truly an apostolic mission to learn from others, engage in issues, unite our actions in prayer and to consistently live for others.

Mission Opportunities 2023-24

Overview

Mission Trips are profoundly moving, fun and beautiful! The point of them is learning how to know, love and authentically serve different demographics of people in need, based on Christ's witness. Prayer and community life is a huge part of filling our cup so we can give ourselves in service to others. While we welcome students who aren't Catholic, they still must be present and respectful in prayer activities while on mission. Mission trips naturally help students grow as they are placed outside of their comfort zones, sleep in rustic conditions, serve long days and are away from electronic devices.

Jamaica

OC students will work with the Mustard Seed community at Sophie's Place in a small town in Jamaica. Students will be tasked with serving kids, women and men with disabilities.

Who: Open to current OC Juniors and Seniors
When: April 1-6, 2024
Where: Kingston, Jamaica
Cost: $1,920 (includes flights, lodging and transportation) *Payment plans are available, contact Dorrie at ddonahue@oaklandcatholic.org

Mexico

OC students will be in Mexico City with Sisters of Mary World Villages for Children to tutor local girls in math and English. They will also help with after school activities.

Who: Anyone OC students who takes Spanish
When: June 17-21 2024
Where: Outside Mexico City
Cost: $1,627 (4 payments of $406 each month)
Questions: Contact Dorrie at ddonahue@oaklandcatholic.org

Pittsburgh

OC students lend a hand to local families on the North Side of our city through the Pittsburgh Project, by assisting with home repairs and various projects. This is a great way to help the local community while growing friendships with one another.

Who: Open to all grades
When: November 17-19, 2023
Where: The Pittsburgh Project (North Side of Pittsburgh)
Cost: $250 per person (due October 24th)

Local Service Opportunities 2023-24

The Red Door

Students head to the Red Door downtown to volunteer at the women's homeless shelter by organizing donations, preparing dinner, and running fun activities for the women. Email Christine O'Toole, OCHS'24 to secure a spot if interested in volunteering!

We plan to go twice a month, typically the first and third Tuesday of each month. Current students, please login to the Student Portal to review dates on the Clubs & Activities calendar.