Where is God calling you to serve? Through the Acts of the Apostles program, participants have the opportunity to encounter Christ in the young, the elderly, and immigrant communities. We offer opportunities to minister alongside our Sisters in education ministry, both in early childhood and K–8 school settings. Participants can also serve with our Sisters who provide legal and supportive services to immigrant and refugee populations, or our Sisters who provide compassionate care to the elderly.
We invite you to learn about our various service placement sites by exploring the categories below. We hope this will aid in your discernment process!
Education
St. Raphael Academy (Pre-K–3)
Bridgeport, Connecticut
The Apostles and lay co-workers offer a safe, loving, and educationally rich environment for children from immigrant families. Character formation and emotional support lessons complement the academics in this multilingual school. Volunteers support students (many still learning English as a second language) and teachers in the classroom. St. Raphael Academy offers volunteers an opportunity to experience the struggles and triumphs of children adjusting to new culture, language, and traditions.
All Saints Catholic Academy (K–8)
New Haven, Connecticut
As the only Catholic elementary school in New Haven, All Saints serves the needs of students from diverse cultural, educational, economic, and ethnic backgrounds. Volunteers will meet students and teachers who are committed to engaging in social, emotional, and intellectual activities with multiple language experiences—all designed to form community and prepare students to live and serve in a global society.
Sacred Heart Villa (Early Childhood)
St. Louis, Missouri
Sacred Heart Villa is a Catholic Early Childhood Development Center dedicated to young children ages two through six from all socio-economic levels. Sacred Heart Villa educators strive to imitate the Love of the Heart of Christ, as exemplified in the life of Clelia Merloni, foundress of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, to respond to the challenges of families in the Church and world today. Focused on the individual talents, gifts, and needs of each child, Sacred Heart Villa is noted for its strong Atrium program (Catechesis of the Good Shepherd).
St Ann Catholic School/St. Ann Early Childhood Program
Normandy, Missouri
Situated in the North County area of St. Louis, St. Ann School and Early Childhood Center create a small, family atmosphere for a diverse population of students from age three through eighth grade. With a 165-year-old tradition, St. Ann continues to meet the changing times and circumstances of families, providing a safe community that fosters the individual educational needs and talents of its students. Volunteers assist in meeting special needs and mentoring children at all ages.
Immigrant & Refugee Services
Apostle Immigrant Services
New Haven, Connecticut
Since 2008, Apostle Immigrant Services has worked with immigrant and refugee populations in the greater New Haven area, helping them attain their goals: achieving US citizenship; gaining work authorization; uniting with family members; becoming legal residents; and improving educational skills. Volunteers are invited to join in their work with immigrants of all religious denominations and ethnic backgrounds and to learn what can be done to build stronger immigrant communities one family and one person at a time. Familiarity with Spanish is helpful.
Elder Care
Clelian Center
Hamden, Connecticut
Founded by the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Clelian Center is a full-service adult day center that provides care for adults who live at home but need companionship during the day. Clients enjoy a variety of activities suited to their individual needs. Volunteers must work to create moments of joy and to lift spirit. They must be committed to supporting faith and strengthening spirit in seniors, creating purpose by encouraging their individual talents and gifts.