A Partnership Built on Purpose: Celebrating National Volunteer Month with St. Xavier High School

Every April, National Volunteer Month gives us the opportunity to recognize the individuals and organizations who make a difference in the lives of young people across our region. At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Cincinnati, we are fortunate to have many dedicated volunteers. But few partnerships have stood the test of time quite like our relationship with St. Xavier High School.

For more than half a century, St. Xavier students have been a consistent presence in our Clubs, building relationships, offering support and helping create meaningful experiences for the youth we serve. What began in the 1960s as a “big brother”-style program has evolved into a dynamic, hands-on volunteer effort that continues to make an impact today.

A Legacy of Service

Service is a core part of St. Xavier’s mission. Rooted in Jesuit values and the call to be “men for others,” students are encouraged to live selflessly and use their talents to transform society and combat injustice.

That mission comes to life each week inside BGCGC Clubs.

Through St. Xavier’s after-school service program, students in grades 9 through 12 volunteer at Clubs across Cincinnati, working directly with younger members. Even though the program is an optional addition to students’ already heavy workloads, many return year after year, forming connections that go far beyond a single visit.

“It’s a great way for our students to zoom out and see the larger community beyond their normal routines,” said Community Service Director J K Klaiber. “It helps make their world bigger and put things into perspective.”

Showing Up Where It Matters Most

Unlike traditional volunteer programs that pull youth out of their environments, St. Xavier students integrate directly into BGCGC programming to meet kids where they are and support what’s already in place.

Most often, that means stepping in during the Clubs’ “Power Hour,” a dedicated time for homework help and academic support. For many Club members, having a high school student sit beside them to help out with math or reading can make all the difference.

Beyond academics, volunteers also participate in games, gym activities and daily Club life, helping create a positive and engaging environment.

Building Relationships That Last

What makes this partnership especially meaningful is the relationships that form over time.

St. Xavier students often work with the same group of younger members, getting to know them by name, understanding their strengths and challenges, and building trust.

For Club members, these relationships provide encouragement and exposure to new possibilities. Seeing older students who take school seriously and model positive behavior can leave a lasting impression.

A Partnership That Strengthens Our Community

Each year, hundreds of St. Xavier students volunteer across dozens of community organizations.  But BGCGC remains one of their longest-standing and most impactful partnerships.

“BGCGC is doing one of the most important jobs in our city,” Klaiber said. “They’re helping kids who might otherwise fall behind. They’re working directly with our community to make it better.”

That shared commitment to supporting others, strengthening communities and creating opportunity is what has sustained this partnership for generations.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate National Volunteer Month, we are grateful for the thousands of hours St. Xavier students have dedicated to our Clubs over the years, as well as the many other organizations and individuals who have selflessly given their time over the years to help us achieve our mission.

Together, we are building something that lasts far beyond a single afternoon or school year.