Marian Catholic High School, 700 Ashland Ave., in Chicago Heights, recently held its annual Day of Giving known as 4Marian, which proved to be the most successful yet.
The event raised nearly $100,000, with funds going towards supporting the school’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, athletic achievement, artistic development and spiritual growth.
Because the school far surpassed its $75,000 goal, Marian Catholic President Vince Krydynski ’81, Principal Steve Tortorello ’04 and Vice President for Advancement Colleen Peabody ’05 have agreed to work a shift at the Zarlengo’s Italian Ice in Chicago Heights.
This year, not only did Marian Catholic ask its donors to give back, but it also asked students, staff and faculty to give back to the local community by participating in a Day of Service. They contributed more than 3,000 hours of community service for the day.
The morning began with a prayer service followed by the Marian Catholic community working on various projects both on and off campus. Some of the activities included planting trees around the school with the Morton Arboretum, visiting local elementary schools, creating care packages, helping clean a local church, volunteering at a humane society, painting a mural and more.
The Day of Service was an opportunity for students to not only give back to the community but to also learn the importance of service and philanthropy. By participating in various service projects, students were able to gain a deeper understanding of the impact they can have locally and beyond.
“Christian service is an important part of our mission. As such, we felt it paramount to accomplish good work together as a community,” said Linda Hansen, Marian Catholic vice president of ministry and mission. “It allows our students to see that we all have gifts to offer in building God’s kingdom.”
The success of this year’s 4Marian is a testament to the school’s commitment to service, philanthropy and education. Marian Catholic looks forward to continuing to make a difference in the community through events such as 4Marian.
