Social Justice

The gospel value of justice is an important element of Catholic education and Catholic social teaching. At STVM, The seven themes of Catholic social teaching, as identified by the US conference of Catholic Bishops, are taught in religion classes and reinforced throughout our curriculum. We have fostered a partnership between our Religion and Social Studies departments, which encourages teachers to develop joint projects so students can apply their knowledge of social justice concepts to real world problems and concerns. We encourage field trips and in-school presentations related to social justice topics. Our new Social Justice Center, a large multi purpose room on the second floor, includes a meeting space, a classroom and a resource area with computers and support materials.

As part of the graduation requirement, each STVM student completes 25 hours of service per year. Of the 100 total hours served, 25 must be in social justice. Many students go well beyond the required hours. Collectively, our student volunteer more than 15,000 of service hours each year.

Other social justice activities at STVM include:

St. Brigid's Fire
Co-curricular organization that turns knowledge of social justice issues into social action.

Books for the Bahamas
Collection of books to be delivered to learning centers and libraries in the Bahamas. Sponsored by the National Honor Society.

Right to Life
Collection of baby items for needy mothers through Adopt-a-baby and participation in the annual Life Chain

Glenmary Farm Mission trip
Completion of home improvement projects in the area of Appalachia.

Multi-Cutural Club - Coming Together
Co-curricular group that promotes cultural diversity in the school and Akron community.

Educate the Congo Project
Collection of equipment, supplies and money for learning centers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sponsored by the French Club.

Libros for the Americas Project
Donation of Spanish language children's books for villages in Central and South America. Sponsored by the Spanish Club.

Adopt-A-Family Project
Holiday collection of food and gifts for area needy families.

Harvest for Hunger
Annual collection of food for the needy

Darfur Project
"Change for Change" fundraiser and benefit concert for relief efforts.