Chicago Mission Trip 2017

Over February break eleven students (Kathleen Bannon, Kelly Schnell, Milan Bornstein, Catherine Schofield, Grace Gaynor, Baylor Wallace, Charles White, Kevin Daley, Mason Matook, Riley Murphy, and Gabby Pedro, accompanied by Ms. Allen and Mr. Legacy) traveled to Chicago, IL for a week long service immersion trip. Students on the trip were challenged to face social justice within the contexts of poverty, racial inequalities, gang violence, and the criminal justice system in the city. Through volunteer work with local agencies, the students were able to face their fears, challenge stereotypes, and get to know the people of Chicago in a whole new light. The students stayed at the Br. David Darst Center where they participated in daily communal prayers, meal preparation, and recreational and educational activities to reflect on what they were learning throughout the week.

During the week the students volunteered at centers such as The San Miguel School of Chicago, the Saint James Food Pantry, the Cornerstone Community Clinic and Shelter, and the St. Leonard's Ministries, a restorative center that works with young men to rebuild their lives. The group also had one afternoon free to explore the area around Wrigley Field. At these facilities the students were able to hear the stories of many people living in poverty and how it has changed their lives.

While speaking on her experience of the trip, Gabby Pedro, ‘18 expressed, “I learned a lot not only about the city of Chicago but about myself. I learned about how fortunate I am and how everything I have in my life is a blessing. I also learned about many injustices, not only in Chicago but in our world today. The David Darst Center taught us that in order to make a difference in the word we must step back and see it differently. During my time in Chicago I stepped out of my little bubble of Rhode Island and I learned more than I could ever explain.”

“I enjoyed getting close with everyone from La Salle, Totino-Grace [another school], and those we met in the city of Chicago. Hearing the stories of individuals in extremely difficult situations was truly incredible. I also loved all the food we got to eat on our day off in the city; the pizza and sandwiches were unreal!” - Kevin Daley, ‘18