20th Anniversay Reunion a Success


“Over 150 volunteers, Brothers, LV Alumni, and friends gathered to celebrate the history of the 500+ volunteers who have served in Lasallian ministries, and to commemorate the influences and advocates for our cause. It was refreshing and exciting to see just how many people were not only dedicated but energized by the Christian Brothers and the Lasallian Charism.” Brendan Corcoran, LV, 07-09

With the help of so many LVs, Brothers, family, friends and donors over the past two decades, we all arrive at this momentous occasion encouraging the harvest and rejoicing of all the generous services Lasallian Volunteers has to offer. The 20th year Harvest Reunion is an ideal time for all to come together in jubilation — in feast and fellowship — preparing for bountiful growth in the next 20 years and beyond.

A Reflection from the First LV Director: Mike Culligan

Hearing about a chance to teach poor kids in the West Indies, Mike Culligan jumped at the opportunity. Before he could connect however, Br. Bill Clarey already had the two volunteers he needed for the Brothers’ mission school. But Mike was a natural for the work, young, gifted, committed and confident. He rebutted each reason why two was enough, winning acceptance and even opening the door for a fourth. In August, 1987 all four headed to the Caribbean to teach for a year at St. Martin’s School.

Through the 1980’s, in ways similar to the West Indies, innovative Brothers in New York City, the Midwest, and Africa welcomed volunteers into their work with the poor and into their communities.

Not long after his return, Mike was invited to organize these initiatives into a volunteer program. Beginning in September, 1988, his first recruits came for orientation the next summer and went off to serve in the Caribbean, New York and Mississippi. Spawned from these grassroots efforts, Mike’s first nine Lasallian Volunteers launched a national movement that today approaches 500 LVs and Alums.

Together and with the Brothers for over 20 years, Lasallian Volunteers have carried the spirit of Saint La Salle to tens of thousands of children and adults in poor communities across the United States and beyond. The unique facet of the program has been from its beginning LVs not only working with the Brothers but also sharing their community and prayer.

Mike recently commented on its transforming impact:

“The volunteer program opens an entirely unique window for young people (and not so young people) to gain valuable formation in the Lasallian values of Faith, Service and Community. These values form a foundation upon which volunteers can pull throughout their lives regardless of their ultimate vocation.”

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