About Us
Learn more about the Notre Dame Mission Volunteers story. How we started. What we’re about. And where we’re going.
“Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love”
—MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.
NDMVA STORY
Our Roots
Notre Dame Mission Volunteers was founded in 1992 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, a prophetic women’s religious order with a deep commitment to education, social justice, and service to those affected by poverty.
Since their founding in 1804 by Saint Julie Billiart in France, the Sisters have championed a charism of seeing and celebrating the good in all people. Their mission has since expanded globally, establishing schools and programs that serve the marginalized and promote the dignity and rights of all. Guided by the belief that education transforms lives, the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur have pioneered movements and initiatives rooted in justice, peace, and care for creation.
Their legacy of dedication and vision continues to inspire and shape the work of Notre Dame Mission Volunteers today as we strive to honor their legacy by empowering individuals and communities through service.
“I AM A MISSION ON THIS EARTH”
Our Shared Mission
Every person has a unique role to play in the world, contributing their talents and passions to create a ripple effect of positive change. Our individual missions, grounded in shared values like compassion and integrity, connect us to a larger network of impact, enriching both ourselves and those around us.
As Pope Francis wrote in his 92nd letter for World Mission Day (2018), “Each one of us is called to reflect on this fact: ‘I am a mission on this Earth; that is the reason why I am here in this world.” By pursuing our personal and unique mission – by understanding each person, including ourselves, as a “mission on this Earth”, we not only find fulfillment and growth but also inspire others to discover and act on their own missions.
This collective effort weaves a tapestry of progress, building a more harmonious and just society where each person's unique contribution is integral to the greater good. Through our shared humanity and dedication to meaningful action, we collectively shape a better world rooted in love.
AN EVOLVING STORY
Our Partnership with AmeriCorps
Notre Dame Mission Volunteers first received an AmeriCorps grant in 1995. AmeriCorps is a national service program that addresses critical community needs across the United States, through volunteer work in education, public health, disaster response, and more.
By fostering civic engagement and equipping participants with valuable skills, AmeriCorps helps build stronger, more resilient communities while offering educational benefits to those who serve. Since receiving our initial AmeriCorps grant, Notre Dame Mission Volunteers has placed over 8,000 volunteers in oft-marginalized communities across the U.S.
Thanks to AmeriCorps’ support, our volunteers make a lasting impact in the communities they serve, while receiving an educational award that can help pay off student loans or further their education.
YOU ARE JOINING A MISSION
Our Work Today
As an NDMV and AmeriCorps member, you are joining a mission at the forefront of social justice and community empowerment in the United States.
Nearly 300 NDMV members each year serve in education, literacy, after-school programs, adult job readiness programs, and other community initiatives nationwide. Your work will help to empower individuals, amplify the voices of community members, and foster connections that transcend differences.
We encourage you to embrace this opportunity wholly to lean into new experiences while listening and learning with an open heart and mind. Your impact this year will extend far beyond your service, leaving a lasting legacy in your life and the lives of those you accompany.
GUIDANCE, RESOURCES, AND BELONGING
Our Commitment to You
Throughout the year, you will be accompanied by a dedicated team of staff and fellow members who share your passion for service.
We are here to provide guidance, resources, and a sense of belonging as you navigate the joys and challenges of your service journey.
Together, we will support one another, celebrate milestones, and continue the legacies of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and AmeriCorps, making a positive impact on communities across the nation.