As of today, March 16, there are exactly 79 days until summer including weekends, Spring Break and any other days off we have to look forward to—but hey, who’s counting? Of course, summer fun entails days relaxing poolside, warm nights watching the sunset, ice cream and trips to the beach, and even refreshing days at home in the cool air conditioning; however, summer in no way means an end to responsibilities such as homework, summer gym (as I know everyone is eager to get that out of the way as soon as possible), sports practices and yes, service.

“As a Christian and an active member of the Saint Viator Community, I feel it is imperative to keep service at the center of everything I do,” said junior Patrick Harris. “As such, I plan to continue my service into the summer by leading the Service and Song summer camp, where high school and junior high students go out into the community to administer to the needs of the marginalized.”

Service and Song offers a unique opportunity for young students and high school student leaders to work together for an entire week, five hours a day doing various service projects around the local neighborhood. All participating students fulfill their required service hours for the upcoming school year, yet there are still other ways to serve that complement the more artistic personalities.

“By leading Service and Song, I will help kids gain a knowledge of what liturgical music is and how to use it in prayer life and Mass,” said junior Kaitlyn Baxendale.

If singing is not your niche, and you want to explore service opportunities outside of the school, check within your town to see what exciting jobs appear.

“I applied to volunteer for Northwest Community Hospital this summer and I could not be more excited,” said sophomore Camilla Fernandez. “I cannot wait to dedicate my time to others, especially in a place where people need plenty of support and kindness.”

Whether you choose to serve with a group of friends at Feed My Starving Children, try out Service and Song for the first time, work for the women of WINGS or test out a completely different service site, there’s always a way to get a head start on service hours in the summertime. In the meantime, make these last 79 days of the school year count.