Carrollton students step out into the community for Service Day

On Jan. 19, Carrollton students participated in their annual Service Day, stepping beyond the campus into the Miami community. For three hours, students dedicated their time to serving local organizations, while showing compassion, leadership and kindness in their work. 

Working alongside children with disabilities at the Miami Learning Experience helped one student see strength and happiness in a new way. “At Miami Learning Experience, I loved getting to decorate cupcakes with the kids and then cheering them on as they practiced for the dance and fashion show,” said Emma Althage ‘26. “What stood out most to me was their joy and confidence, and how they move through their days with so much happiness, never letting their disabilities define who they are.” 

The joy of forming meaningful connections in their places of service left a lasting impact on many students. “I went to Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA),” said Cecilia Alwine ‘27, “and seeing how excited the little kids got to see us and be able to talk with us was really inspiring because it showed me that I really could make a difference in their lives, or even just brighten their day a little bit.”

For others, Service Day was a reminder of the power of presence and shared joy. “I went to RCMA Everglades II, which serves as a childcare center for the children of migrant workers,” said Veronica Franzino ‘27. “My group focused on the 3-5 year old age group, and it made me so happy to share laughs and spend time with them. I would love to go back.”

Hands-on service also helped students reflect on gratitude and responsibility. “I spent my Service Day doing the IB Science beach clean up, and I would say it was very impactful for me because I think getting hands-on service experience always allows me to be more grateful for all I have and do my best to serve others,” said Emma Avino ‘27.

Some students were especially moved by the resilience and kindness of those they served. “For Service Day, I went to Easter Seals, where I visited elderly individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s,” said Matilda Cramp ‘27. “I was truly impacted by their joy and kindness despite the struggles they were facing. This experience reminded me to be more grateful for my health and the health of my family.” 

Students returned from Service Day with powerful stories that reflected both personal growth and a deeper awareness of the Miami community. “It truly made me reflect on how many things I take for granted, like decorating cupcakes or simply communicating,” said Eva Garcia Miro ‘29. 

Service Day also opened students’ eyes to the needs within their own community. “For Service Day, I went to Camillus House, where I served food to the homeless,” said Olivia Wilson ‘28. “It made me realize how many less fortunate people are here in our own community who need so much help from us. This experience has reminded me to be more appreciative of what I have and to donate and serve others.” 

Others valued the opportunity to serve multiple groups and broaden their perspective. “I went to Care Elementary, where I made sandwiches with the fourth graders,” said Khendal McCrea ‘28. “We filled up the community fridge. When we were done making sandwiches, we walked across the street where we fed the reformed men at a Caring Place for lunch. By immersing ourselves in two different service activities, this opportunity allowed me to branch out and see the various groups in need of our help. I am so grateful Carrollton allows us to have this opportunity.”  

Carrollton’s special tradition of Service Day once a semester truly highlights what Carrollton is all about, the practice and belief of Goal III, a social awareness that impels to action. It calls on students to develop an understanding of social issues, especially injustice and suffering, and to respond by serving others and working for the common good. Through stepping out into our surrounding community, students learn to look beyond themselves and put others first. Service Day opens our eyes to the needs of people who live closer to us than we may realize, people who benefit deeply from our time, care, and willingness to serve. By helping the vulnerable and recognizing how much we often take for granted, these experiences remind us that we are part of something greater than ourselves. Year after year, Service Day reinforces the values of the Sacred Heart, grounding us as God’s disciples and calling us to live out our faith through action, compassion, and service to others.