Volunteer

SSND Volunteers participate in the mission of the School Sisters of Notre Dame and collaborate with the School Sisters of Notre Dame by working in international and domestic ministries, focusing on women and children, the marginalized and economically poor to “enable persons to reach the fullness of their potential as individuals created in God’s image and assisting them to direct their gifts toward building the earth.”

(You Are Sent, Constitution of the School Sisters of Notre Dame)

Since the SSND volunteer office was established this past September, Sister Marcie Solms has immersed herself in an ambitious agenda to develop and implement an effective and professional program that is the first of its kind for the School Sisters of Notre Dame.

Working from the Coordinating Center for the North American Major Area (NAMA), Sister Marcie currently is focusing on responsibilities that comprise the development and the implementation of all aspects of the new program, including the recruitment, formation, placement and communication processes.

“Within these first six months in my role as coordinator for the volunteer program, I can sense that the Spirit has been active in leading me to make important networking connections, sending guides and mentors to me, allowing me to witness the enthusiasm and dedication of other program directors at a national conference and feeling the support of the NCC staff and many SSNDs throughout our congregation,”

Sister Marcie said. “The positive energy at this early phase of development is a sign of hope and a validation to bring this new program to birth.”

Her immediate goals include establishing an advisory committee from across NAMA to support, advise, brainstorm, plan and offer feedback; launching a two-week summer pilot program in June in Minnesota’s Twin Cities with volunteers helping at MORE Multicultural School for Empowerment and Theresa Living Center, having promotional materials in place for the fall 2012 College Volunteer Fair, recruiting and screening applicants, and selecting permanent volunteers for a year of service beginning in August 2013.

Sister Marcie brings to the ministry a background rich in service and working with youth and young adults. She was the service director in two college settings, at Lewis University, southwest of Chicago, and at Mount Mary College in Milwaukee. Most recently, she was the service director at Marquette University High School in Milwaukee.

As a former SSND director of vocation ministry, Sister Marcie honed her skills for promotion, invitation, screening and discernment. A self-described “people person,” Sister Marcie enjoys interacting and networking with others.

“Giving service is a growing trend among young adults so this seems a great opportunity to extend our mission and charism through volunteers willing to serve and join us in our mission,” Sister Marcie said. “Establishing a new program is exciting but also challenging. Patience is needed in laying a strong foundation and wisdom is something I pray for to know what pieces are needed and how it will all fit together."