Who We Are

At Nazareth Prep, service is more than just an activity; it’s a living tradition that shapes character and extends far beyond designated volunteer hours. Grounded in Catholic Social Teaching, particularly the preferential option for the poor and vulnerable, students actively engage in service that fosters solidarity with those facing hardship. What truly stands out is the genuine heart and commitment brought to these endeavors, demonstrating a strong dedication to community.

Under the direction of Student Development Manager Carlie Sittig and the faculty, Nazareth Prep students launched this year’s school-wide service initiatives with Project Linus in September. Students poured their creativity and care into crafting handmade blankets for children in need, with each blanket bearing personal touches that spoke to their commitment. These blankets were provided to children throughout the Greater Pittsburgh Area. This project served as a powerful opening to the year.

In November, a beloved tradition continued: the holiday blessing bag initiative. Students contributed to a dress-down day, and these funds were then used by Ms. Sittig, to create a “store” within the school. Guided by a description of a specific individual or family in need, students then “shopped” within this store, carefully selecting items to fill blessing bags for local homeless shelters. This approach cultivates empathy, shifting the focus from simple charity to a genuine connection with the recipients. The questions, “What would brighten their day? What would I want if I were in their shoes?” resonated deeply, and the overwhelming enthusiasm and desire to contribute more than required underscores the compassion of the Nazareth Prep student body.

In December, Nazareth Prep students continued their work with Love for Our Elders, a Cleveland-based nonprofit dedicated to combating social isolation among older adults across the nation. Students read heartfelt letters, revealing the lives and struggles of isolated elders, and they responded with personalized letters and cards of encouragement. This intergenerational connection, especially meaningful to students who cherish their own grandparents, fostered a sense of shared humanity.

These service activities are not isolated events; they are integral to the Nazareth Prep experience. The ethic of care cultivated is carried back into classrooms, sports teams, and co-curricular activities, enriching the entire school community. Head of School Dr. Stacy Tweedy notes, “we are fortunate to have students arrive at Nazareth Prep with a natural inclination to care for others. The school is privileged to provide the channels to express their compassionate hearts.”