Dear NDB Students and Parents,
As we continue to navigate through this unprecedented time, we have decided to alter our plan for service hours for the remainder of this year. Many of the communities that our students volunteer with are particularly vulnerable or high risk populations and could face more serious consequences if they are exposed to COVID-19. For this reason, to slow the spread of the virus, for the safety of our students, and out of an abundance of caution, we are going to be changing our service hour requirements this semester.
If you have already done service and have not yet submitted it on x2Vol.com, please do so as soon as possible. Whatever your hours are as of March 12th will be what stands for this semester and all students will receive an “Exempt” on their community service hours in Spiritual Life class. All hours submitted on x2Vol.com will continue to be verified and approved.
At this time, out of respect for our larger community and specifically those whose health is most vulnerable, we request that you refrain from engaging in direct service with the community, especially those who are marginalized. It is part of our mission and hallmarks that we commit ourselves to community service and as so, we encourage you to find other creative ways to continue to serve and benefit our community in this time of need. Many agencies are still in need of donations, non-perishable food, or other supplies and would appreciate extra financial or material assistance, if you are able. You might consider writing letters to people living in care facilities or hospitals instead of visiting. You could also take this opportunity to contact your government representatives about an issue that you deeply care about. There are many ways to continue to serve our community.
For seniors in the Class of 2020 who have outstanding community service hours needed for graduation, we will be hosting a few of the indirect service opportunities mentioned above when we return to NDB and asking those seniors to participate in the service activities depending on where their requirement stands.
We appreciate your understanding and flexibility. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Ynez Manalo, MA, PPS
Spiritual Life Department Chair
Claudia Sarconi, MA, MLIS
Community Service Coordinator
