The Ignatian value of “being men and women for others” manifests itself at Saint Peter’s University in the form of community service. Students, faculty and staff continuously give back to the community through many initiatives organized by The Joseph A. Kelly Office of Mission and Ministry. Last month, in solidarity with the other Jesuit schools across the country, Saint Peter’s participated in the Jesuit Day of Service. This day offered local volunteer opportunities for faculty, staff, students and alumni.
Outside of The Campus Kitchen, alumni gathered to help beautify the exterior. “So many Saint Peter’s graduates volunteer their time in many ways to help improve the neighborhoods in which they live. I truly believe that we should all give 
back, even a little, to make this a better world,” said Sondra Moylan ’88. The group of alumni were joined by students and friends who helped build landscaping boxes around the trees on Tuers Avenue.
“It was great to have alumni and future alumni together working to improve the community. It is so important for our current students to see that the impact of serving others doesn’t end with graduation,” said Erich Sekel, associate director of campus ministry for community service.
In addition, The Campus Kitchen gives back to the community on a daily basis. It recently reached a 30,000 meal milestone, growing from 150 meals a week in its first month to over 500 meals a week. The food donors have grown to six donors, including Sodexo at Saint Peter’s University, Christ Hospital and Hoboken Hospital. Sekel credits the success to support from the food donors, the City of Jersey City and the Saint Peter’s community, especially the volunteers who make the meals happen every week.
Renovations to The Campus Kitchen will be completed soon. As a result, Sekel and students hope to advance from preparing 500 meals a week to 700, beginning in September.
“That we have saved over 37,000 pounds of food and, in turn, delivered over 30,000 meals demonstrates how dedicated Saint Peter’s is to serving the Jersey City community, particularly the most vulnerable,” Sekel said.
To learn more or get involved, click here.