Our first introduction to the San Miguel Middle School and the Lasallian Volunteer Program came when our oldest daughter Angela finished her junior year at St. Mary's University in Winona, Minnesota. She, along with several other students, were asked to student teach at San Miguel's summer school program. We live in Northfield, Minnesota, a town of less than 20,000 people, so the South Side of Chicago seemed rather intimidating. We had some concerns, but were assured the neighborhood was a safe environment. Angela truly loved it and accepted a Lasallian Volunteer position at San Miguel after she graduated in 2000. This fall she started her fifth year of teaching sixth grade at San Miguel.

Looking back five years, there is no way that our family could have imagined the experiences we were to gain. During Angela’s first year, we visited the school and Brothers’ community. After spending the day in her classroom meeting the students, we were impressed by their eagerness and enthusiasm. We were also warmly welcomed into the community. The caring environment the Christian Brothers were providing put to rest our previous concerns.

Several times Angela and her class visited Dunrovin Christian Brothers Retreat Center here in Minnesota. Being close by, we invited the students and teachers to our home for a sledding party and dinner during a winter visit, and a picnic and kickball game during a spring visit. At different times, both of us and each of our daughters, Sarah and Elizabeth, have helped chaperone overnight field trips to Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. When we visit, we are greeted by former students who remind us of the fun they had with us or the food they enjoyed at our house. It was during our family involvement that our middle daughter Sarah realized she too wanted to be a part of the San Miguel Mission. After her graduation from St. Mary's University, she also accepted a Lasallian Volunteer position. Sarah is currently in her second year of teaching seventh grade. 

Even though the neighborhood often presents challenges to the students and staff, they are not without a strong support network. Watching our daughters make a difference in their students’ lives has been very rewarding. To continue the efforts of their work, we as a family have chosen to sponsor a San Miguel graduate in his high school career. Our youngest daughter Elizabeth, who is a junior at Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, will spend her May term interning with the school’s development staff. The Lasallian Volunteer experience extends beyond just the site assignment. Our girls have met many wonderful people and have visited many interesting cities. The friendships will last well beyond their Volunteer years. Our family has been truly blessed by this experience and we would strongly recommend the LV Program to anyone who is considering a year or two (or five!) of service.

Yours in faith,
Michael and Darlene Witt