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Apostolic service is an important part of an Everest education. Students focus on concrete works of charity within the school and the larger community, developing an apostolic heart that is sensitive to the needs of others. International students at Everest join in these experiences not only during the school day but also on the weekend. Recently the boys volunteers at the Miracle League and also doing fall cleanup at Kingsley Montgomery school.

The Miracle League is a baseball league for children with mental or physical disabilities who could otherwise not play organized sports. With music, an announcer, and full Major League experience, it is an amazing and truly touching experience. Everest Collegiate High School & Academy international student attend a Miracle League event as volunteers and were paired up, one international student with each athlete. During the game everyone hits, rounds the bases, and scores. The boys aided their partner by making sure no fly balls hit them, assisting with batting, and encouraging them during the whole game. The experience is gratifying for everyone!

One student who attended last week’s Miracle League game had a few things to say about his experience. Seventh grader Roberto Borquez said “It taught me not to think of yourself but to put others first, that everyone doesn’t have the same life as you, and it is important to help in the little ways we can”.  Roberto and his partner Jonathan became instant friends, and it goes without saying that this experience will remain something Roberto will remember for a lifetime.

Rafael Velasco is an assistant dean with the international program. Rafael is a high school graduate who has volunteered for a year to work alongside the deans of the program in the formation of the student. He shared his reflections on the volunteer day at Kingsley Montgomery School.

“Working in unison with others, having a common goal, and spreading God’s love for everyone are some of the most important aspects you must keep in mind while working in an apostolate. This past week, some of the international program students had the opportunity to work at the Kingsley Montgomery School’s farm. Students with severe cognitive impairments (SCI), severe multiple impairments (SXI), and significant behavioral challenges from Kingsley Montgomery have the opportunity to grow crops in the garden with the help of staff and teachers at school.

The students were received by Mr. Hearn. Mr. Hearn shared his story with them, which not only taught them several lessons for life, but deeply motivated them to work as best and as fast as they could. Each boy had a personal task: whether it was raking, or shoveling, or carrying things from one place to another. Eduardo Sanchez and Francisco Arroyo both agreed that what they liked the most was the physical work. ‘We really enjoyed helping out,’ they said.”