‘Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity:’ Notre Dame Students Leave their Mark at Catholic Charities Boston

Seven University of Notre Dame students have spent the summer interning at Catholic Charities Boston through a partnership with Notre Dame’s Institute for Social Concerns, an interdisciplinary program that promotes social justice through education, research, and hands-on service projects.  

Five of the students have conducted client intake and stocked bags of food at Catholic Charities Boston’s food pantries, while two have been working at the Labouré and Yawkey Child Care Centers, helping with classroom schedules and supporting children’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Students have also learned about the agency’s comprehensive support services through visits to the Teen Center, El Centro Adult Education Center, and St. Ambrose Family Shelter.  

Beyond expanding their networks and spending the summer in a new city, the students said they’ve gained perspective on the importance of organizations like Catholic Charities Boston that provide those in need both hope and practical pathways to self-sufficiency. 

“My favorite part has been seeing how such a large organization like Catholic Charities Boston is able to still meet each individual client where they are and provide them what they need based on their unique situation,” said Margaux, a rising senior studying economics and poverty studies who has been working in the food pantries. 

During their two months in Boston, the students have also made trips to partnering organizations, including Boston Healthcare for the Homeless Program (BHCHP), where they toured the facility, learned about BHCHP’s mission, and met fellow ND alum Dr. Jim O’Connell. The students were joined by Catholic Charities Boston President and CEO—and Notre Dame alum—Kelley Tuthill, along with members of the agency’s leadership team and Board. 

On July 24, the students will give final presentations to staff and local Notre Dame alums on their work at Catholic Charities Boston and what their experiences have taught them, with each exploring a central question related to service.  

Alicia Ridenour, Senior Director of Volunteer Programs, said it’s been a joy to oversee the interns at Catholic Charities Boston and to witness the tangible impact each of them has made in just two months.  

“We’ve been grateful to have these Notre Dame interns with us this summer — their thoughtful contributions have supported our work in child care and food pantries in real and tangible ways,” said Alicia. “Their compassion, dedication, and willingness to serve have brought fresh energy to our work — helping us nourish both bodies and spirits in our community. We look forward to continuing this partnership with Notre Dame.” 

As the students prepare to begin a new school year and further pursue their respective studies, they said they will each carry with them the lessons they’ve gained. While it is comforting to know that they have made a difference, the students unanimously agreed that working with Catholic Charities Boston’s clients has deeply impacted them in return.  

“I’ve had a mindset shift,” said Diego, a rising sophomore majoring in Finance and Global Affairs who has been working in the pantries. “What we’re doing isn’t just good charity—it’s social justice. We’re not just giving to people out of the goodness of our hearts. We’re giving them what everyone deserves – to live with dignity.” 

To learn more about Catholic Charities Boston’s volunteer programs, click here. For other ways to support Catholic Charities Boston’s clients in need, visit our Ways to Give page.