Dear NDMV Community,


As we close out another powerful year of service, we do so with deep gratitude and admiration for the more than 300 individuals who served through Notre Dame Mission Volunteers this year. The stories highlighted in this newsletter—along with countless others of challenge, growth, and impact—are not simply individual experiences. They are part of a shared narrative: one rooted in accompaniment, justice, and the belief that transformation happens in relationship.


To our members: thank you for the courageous, compassionate, and consistent service you offered this year. Together, you

  • Supported over 19,700 children through early childhood and K–12 academic programs
  • Helped more than 3,300 adults take meaningful steps toward employment
  • Provided over 370,000 pounds of food and served nearly 69,000 meals in communities across the country


To our site partners, staff, alumni, and supporters: thank you for your steadfast collaboration, encouragement, and belief in this mission—especially in a time of transition.


This work happens because of you—and it continues because of you.


As many of you know, this is a time of transition for NDMV. While we hold the reality of change, we also hold profound celebration for what has been. This year reminded us again and again that unity through community is more than a theme—it’s the thread that binds our mission, our people, and our future.


We invite you to read on, reflect with us, and continue walking with us as the next chapter unfolds—one that moves us into our 35th year of service, of stories, and of goodness in action.


With gratitude,

Ted Miles

Executive Director

Notre Dame Mission Volunteers

A Life-Changing Gap Year

Greta Fenn’s gap year with the Notre Dame Mission Volunteers at St. Ann’s Center was truly life-changing! Inspired by her cousin's AmeriCorps experience, she immersed herself in early childhood education, discovering the joy and whimsy of teaching young kids. Through patience and a focus on helping others, she learned invaluable lessons about growth, support, and the importance of embracing joy.

Waves of Potential


Hillary has a gift for seeing the potential in something and making it better. She worked at a bike shop and has even fixed her own car. When she served with NDMV at the World Ocean School, she channeled those gifts into helping students with their untapped potential.


Friendship in Service


Meet Kaitlin O'Neill and Daniella Ochoa, two recent Marian University grads dedicating their year to service through Notre Dame Mission Volunteers. Kaitlin is at Earth Links in Colorado, helping those experiencing homelessness, while Daniella is teaching at Brillante Academy in Texas.


Continuing a Legacy


In the heart of Youngstown, Ohio, an inspiring transformation is taking place—one led by a dedicated NDMV member named Martia. Initially comfortable serving behind the scenes, Martia has stepped boldly into the frontlines during her service year. Her journey has been anything but ordinary, deeply intertwined with the community, particularly the youth she is committed to supporting.

Navigating Life Lessons


For Rachel Whetten, NDMV alumni, teaching isn’t just about lessons from a book — it’s about the experience. 


As a member of NDMV serving with the World Ocean School, Rachel turns a tall ship into a floating classroom, where every sail hoisted and every wave faced is a chance to grow.


Whether it’s helping a student conquer their fear 45 feet in the air or learning the value of caring for the ship that carries you, Rachel shows that real teaching happens in the moments of courage, connection, and discovery. 


“I believe in you” isn’t just something she says — it’s something she lives. 

 

Like Mother, Like Son


What started as an accidental partnership has blossomed into a shared mission for Stephanie and Eric. After two years of serving together, they reflect on how their paths intertwined in unexpected and beautiful ways.



Update: Planting Purpose


Natalie Ross experienced the sweet fruit of watching seeds of purpose grow into a life of service. Through NDMV, she served at Mission of Mary Cooperative, a nonprofit organization that works on food justice issues on the inner east side of Dayton.


 

Enjoy this slideshow as you reflect on the impact you and others have made in your communities. Thank you for serving alongside us!

 
 
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