By Ben Pluma
(Los Angeles, CA – March 20, 2026) – St. Mary’s Academy in Inglewood, California, held its annual Day of Service, offering students a meaningful opportunity to step beyond the classroom and serve the local community. For the day, the school paused its regular schedule so that all students could volunteer at various service sites throughout Los Angeles. Teachers accompanied the groups, chaperoning and working alongside students as they carried out different tasks at each location.
Among the service sites were the Don Bosco Mission Center and the Salesian Family Youth Center in Boyle Heights. At the Don Bosco Mission Center, a group of approximately 15 volunteers spent the day painting the fence, helping refresh and beautify a space that serves young people and families. The group included Art teacher Virginia Vilchis and Dean of Women, Finance, and Physical Education teacher Mashanda Finn. Welcomed by Anthony Rodriguez, the volunteers quickly grabbed their brushes and got to work.
The day reflected a deeply Salesian spirit, educating young people not only through instruction, but through encounter, service, and community. Inspired by the charism of St. John Bosco, service becomes more than just completing a task; it becomes an opportunity to form hearts. By working together, students experienced firsthand how small acts of generosity can transform a space and bring hope to others.
What a special opportunity to animate young people to be part of something bigger than themselves. Experiences like this help students recognize that love for neighbor is not just something spoken about, but something lived through concrete acts of service. In true Salesian fashion, the day emphasized presence, joy, and collaboration.
The Don Bosco Mission Center team helped facilitate the activities by preparing paint and brushes, as well as providing water and pizza for the volunteers. The event was sponsored by Anthony Rodriguez, whose support made the service opportunity possible. Dr. Rick Quintero, Salesian Cooperator, also assisted with logistics, coordinating with the Dean of Mission and Student Life from St. Mary’s Academy to ensure a smooth and meaningful experience for all involved.
Through initiatives like the Day of Service, young people encounter the joy of giving, discover the needs of their community, and learn that they have the power to make a difference one brushstroke at a time.
