At Notre Dame, service to each other and to the world around us is baked into our DNA. Shortly after founder Rev. Edward F. Sorin, C.S.C., arrived on the land that would soon be home to the university, he wrote about the “deep conviction” he held for what Notre Dame would become: “This college cannot fail to succeed. Before long, it will develop on a large scale. It will be one of the most powerful means for good in this country.” Ever since, that sentiment has driven the mission of the university. In this spirit, the Alumni Association is proud to host the Notre Dame Global Day of Service—a day designated for Notre Dame students, alumni, parents, and friends around the world to serve in the name of Notre Dame. The inaugural event, held on April 29, 2023, saw more than 3,500 volunteers participate in 167 projects across 45 states, 26 countries, and five continents. Though all were invited to organize service projects in their communities, the success of this effort was largely driven by the mobilization of the Notre Dame clubs network, with 119 clubs offering opportunities to their members. Organizers held projects that included writing notes of encouragement, assembling food and toiletry kits, cleaning up outdoor spaces, and building beds, or even housing.
From the Judges
We all agreed, this is an extremely impressive event with global reach. Outcomes met goals. Great use of budget and resources, including partnership with Notre Dame clubs to raise awareness. A great way to engage the alumni population and to give back. Bravo, Notre Dame!
