Each Spring brings forth a renewed spirit and sense of excitement for the season that lies ahead.  In keeping with this zest for the season, the faculty and staff of St. Mary's High School in Lancaster recently participated in the school's annual Day of Caring. Guided by the Catholic faith's call to service, half of the school's staff spent a day at the Food Bank of WNY, while the St. Vincent de Paul Society hosted the other half of the staff.

The Head of School at St. Mary's, Kevin Kelleher, wants to ensure St. Mary's students develop a well-rounded sense of self throughout their time at the school. "One of the main virtues we want our kids to value at St. Mary's is that sense of service," Kelleher said.  "Our faculty teaches their students every day to help those in need.  We decided there was no better way to inspire them than by leading by example."

While at the Food Bank of WNY, the St. Mary's staff boxed over 4,400 pounds of food, resulting in 3,667 meals for those in need.  Then, over at the St. Vincent de Paul Society, the staff members sorted donated clothes and helped prepare hot lunches.  

St. Mary's plans to make these days of service a staple on their school calendar, for both faculty and students alike.  "There are so many great organizations in Buffalo that serve some type of population in need or serve a deserving cause," Kelleher continued.  "We have a platform to work with these organizations that are so vital to our community and show our kids they can make a difference.  That's the power of learning through experiences in and out of the classroom."

Founded in 1904, St. Mary's High School has been preparing its students to achieve success for 113 years.  St. Mary's High School is the leading Catholic, co-ed college preparatory school in Western New York—a beacon of faith, excellence, achievement, and inspiration.