Fr. Gabriel Richard High School sent 30 sophomores to St. Louis Center on Friday, April 11, 2025, as part of their annual Sophomore Day of Service. Here is one student’s reflection:
On my sophomore service day, I had the opportunity to visit the Saint Louis Center and participate in games and activities with individuals with Intellectual Development Disabilities (IDDs). When we arrived, the first thing I noticed was the excitement and joy radiating from the people we met. Their faces lit up with smiles, and their genuine happiness was contagious. They greeted us warmly, shaking our hands, giving us hugs, and showing an incredible amount of kindness and love.
Heading into the day, I had anticipated a fun and heartwarming experience, and it exceeded my expectations. I was deeply moved. On the drive home, I couldn’t stop reflecting on how grateful I was for this experience and how it had touched my heart.
Once we settled in at the center, we divided into small groups. My group leader was Tony, a 29-year-old individual with Down syndrome. Tony had a bright, kind soul and was thrilled to meet us. We spent the day playing puzzles and basketball together, and it was an absolute joy. I had expected to assist with tasks like cooking or cleaning, but instead, our role was simply to provide companionship, support, and smiles. The day wasn’t about us—it was for them.
This experience taught me something profound about myself: I find fulfillment in making others smile. I felt a deep sense of joy and purpose from this activity, and as soon as I got home, I shared the day’s events with my mom and dad. It reminded me of what truly matters in life.
I also realized that the individuals we met weren’t abnormal or different in a negative sense. They were kind, loving people who wanted to share love and peace with others. Meeting Kevin, Tony, Christa, and Kyle, I saw firsthand the beauty of their hearts. It struck me that our past, mistakes, or disabilities do not define us—we are all deserving of love and kindness.
I would strongly encourage FGR to continue organizing this service day in the future. My fellow students and I found so much joy and kindness in this experience. In fact, I believe the entire student body at FGR could benefit from participating in this event. It’s an opportunity to show and receive love while breaking down misconceptions about people with IDDs.
Overall, this service day was much more than just fulfilling service hours. It left a lasting impact on my heart, challenging me to think about things I hadn’t considered before. It was a powerful reminder that individuals with IDDs are just as filled with love as anyone else. They are incredible people with unique stories, deserving of respect, love, and dignity.
Why volunteer at St. Louis Center?
St. Louis Center provides opportunities for community members to give of their time and talent. Those who do quickly learn how rewarding it is to help the people who call St. Louis Center home.
Become one of St. Louis Center’s many volunteers, for questions, please contact the Development Office, by phone (734) 475-8430 or E-mail: slcdev@stlouiscenter.org
Please be sure to let us know if you wish to volunteer as a group or have special interests!
Read the entire issue of St. Louis Spirit here!
