Every Mercyhurst Preparatory School student must complete a minimum of 25 service hours each year.* To be eligible for service hour credit, service hours must be performed for a registered nonprofit. Service hours must be completed no later than March 31. Service for the upcoming school year may begin on April 1. Performing the service, properly entering the hours to the student’s X2VOL (Naviance) account, and having all necessary verification information will ensure that a student earns a passing grade. If you have questions about service, contact Deacon Matthew Ochalek via email at mochalek@mpslakers.com or by phone at 814.824.2053.

Service may be done for any nonprofit organization whose mission coheres with our Catholic Mercy identity and has an IRS 501(c)(3) number. Students are highly encouraged to perform service that relates to the works of mercy and the Critical Concerns of the Sisters of Mercy.

Service projects done as a class requirement, while encouraged, will not be considered for community service hours.  Likewise, you may not be excused from school to do your service, as attendance in school is paramount to success.

We always encourage students to help a family member in any way, but please know that those hours will not be considered for community service unless there are extraordinary circumstances, approved prior to the service.

Babysitting for an individual family or working without pay for a regular business will not be considered as community service for any reason.

Public participation in onstage/court/field events such as theatre productions and athletic or gaming contests outside of school can be very enriching, but in those situations, where your attendance is required by your participation in the activity, please know that the hours will not be counted as service hours. Any questions about what constitutes public participation in these events can be directed to the service coordinator, and should be approved prior to the event.