Marist High School Students Complete 500 Hours Of Community Service Honoring MLK Legacy

CHICAGO — In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of service, Marist High School students put their gifts and talents into action for the good of others.

During the fall 2025 semester, Marist students were offered more than 20 service opportunities through Campus Ministry and completed more than 500 hours of local volunteer service. Students from all grade levels participated, partnering with organizations including Elim Christian Services, Lake Katherine Nature Center, Park Lawn, Pro Labore Dei, Big Shoulders Fund, Lighthouse Church of All Nations, and others.

Marist continues to prioritize service opportunities that are academically relevant, help students build practical skills, and foster a genuine sense of civic responsibility. These experiences allow students to connect classroom learning with real-world impact while living out the values central to the Marist mission.

“Service at Marist is not an occasional activity but a core part of who we are,” said Michael Brennan ’99, director of Campus Ministry at Marist High School. “Through faith, retreats, and service, our students learn how to live their values and lead with compassion in the world.”

Service also plays an important role within Marist athletics. Many Marist sports teams completed team-based service initiatives this year, with coaches and student-athletes recognizing that serving together encourages broader participation and deeper engagement.

In November, Marist students participated in a weekend service immersion trip to Milwaukee’s City on a Hill, where they engaged in hands-on ministry supporting individuals and families in the central city.

“My favorite part was seeing the smiles and happiness of the kids we were serving,” said senior Natalie Smith.

Students consistently noted how these experiences shape their perspective and personal growth.

“Service at Marist has changed the way I see the world,” Marist junior Maggie Doyle said. “It isn’t just about completing hours. I like being able to see the impact I can make on my community. These experiences have helped me grow in my faith and given me the confidence to lead with compassion.”

Service opportunities continue into the spring semester, with scheduled projects supporting Jim’s Bridge, Special Olympics Illinois, Chicago Gaelic Park, Almost Home Chicago and more. Marist will also send students on a mission trip to Cincinnati in March. In addition, the class of 2026 will participate in a Senior Service Day on April 21, offering seniors the opportunity to give back together one final time before graduation.