Serving Our Community
Faith in Action: Serving Our Community
At St. Agnes Academy–St. Dominic School, service is more than an activity. It is an expression of our Catholic faith and Dominican tradition. Through meaningful service opportunities, students learn to recognize the needs of others, share their gifts, and make a positive difference in Memphis and beyond.
Our commitment to service dates back to the Dominican Sisters who cared for their neighbors during the yellow fever epidemic. Today, students continue that legacy through schoolwide initiatives, classroom projects, community partnerships, and individual acts of compassion. On average our students participate in over 17,000 hours of service to the community every year.
From our youngest learners to our Upper School students, service helps students develop empathy, leadership, responsibility, and an understanding of their ability to influence the world for good.
"When Dominicans serve their neighbors, wherever it may be, they are serving Christ. They fulfill the two great commandments of the law, the love of God, and the love of neighbor."
St. Catherine of Siena (Dominican Saint and Doctor of the Church)
Service in Our Community
Students at every grade level participate in service opportunities that connect classroom learning with the needs of others. From classroom service projects and Days of Caring to partnerships with local nonprofit organizations, students experience firsthand the importance of compassion and giving back.
Over the years, SAA-SDS students have supported organizations including St. Vincent de Paul, Habitat for Humanity, Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and Make-A-Wish. Through fundraising, volunteer work, and student-led initiatives, they carry forward our Dominican tradition of service.
Our youngest students also participate in age-appropriate service activities, learning that even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.
In 2017, SAA-SDS received a SPARK Award recognizing its contributions to the Greater Memphis community.
Service in Action
Though the school offers a range of service projects, students are also encouraged to find their own, and many students have even created their own service projects. These experiences cultivate and energize our students’ understanding of their potential to be agents of positive change in our Church, our community, and our world. Students gain broadened perspectives and a heightened sense of purpose. Below are just some of the many service activities for students.
Lower School Activities
- Toy Drive for Catholic Charities
- Socktoberfest donation for unsheltered
- Cop Stop – monthly lunch for first responders
- Kindergarten and 1st grade make Prayer Bouquets to share with the sick in our community
- 2nd grade makes placemats for Ave Maria Nursing Home
- 3rd grade makes dog toys for the Humane Society
- 4th grade writes letters to SAA and SDS alumni
- 5th grade makes Blessing Bags for St. Vincent de Paul
- 6th grade makes fleece blankets for Birthright
Jr. High Activities
- Prepare and deliver baskets for first responders
- Prepare Easter and Christmas Food Baskets for Project Outreach in Fayette County
- Present the JRP Awards to recognize service leaders in our community
Upper School Activities
- Upper School Day of Caring
- Upper School Star Gardeners
- Voice of SAA talent show to raise money for Le Bonhuer
- Helping Hands Club makes blankets for those in need
- Partnership with Madonna Learning Center - Forever Friends Club
- Theatre Community Performances - "Tour of Love"