Summer of Service 2026: Explorers Answer the Call to Serve

For the fourth consecutive year, Christopher Columbus High School students spent part of their summer living out the school's mission through the Summer of Service program. Over the course of two weeks, 122 students and 11 faculty members dedicated their time, talents, and energy to serving the South Florida community, contributing more than 5,000 hours of service.

Throughout the program, students engaged with a wide variety of organizations and communities. They spent time with individuals with special needs, connected with senior citizens, prepared meals and care packages for those experiencing homelessness, supported environmental initiatives, and assisted nonprofit organizations with essential behind-the-scenes work. Whether through direct interaction or donation-based projects, each service opportunity provided students with a meaningful way to make an impact.

The experience challenged students to step beyond their comfort zones while fostering compassion, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the needs within their community. Partner organizations consistently praised the Explorers for their positive attitudes, strong work ethic, and willingness to serve wherever needed.

The success of Summer of Service would not have been possible without the dedication of the faculty and staff who volunteered their time to mentor and serve alongside students. As the fourth year of Summer of Service comes to a close, participants leave with far more than completed service hours. They return with a broader perspective, a greater sense of empathy, and a renewed understanding that meaningful change begins when individuals choose to serve others.

Through their actions, these Explorers demonstrated what it means to lead with humility, compassion, and a commitment to making a difference.