Newark Abbey
Benedict's Preparatory School
Newark, New Jersey

WORK OF THE SJBVC

Newark Abbey/ St. Benedict's Preparatory School is one of the first sites of the SJBVC. Since sending the first volunteer there in 2003, volunteers have been involved in teaching, tutoring, coaching, and being role models for the students. They teach classes in their areas of competence and have coached sports ranging from water polo to wrestling. Volunteers live on the grounds of the school which is in the center of Newark. 

Newark Abbey and St. Benedict's Preparatory School is a vibrant and dynamic community located in the heart of Newark, New Jersey. Founded in the Benedictine tradition, the school is dedicated to providing a high-quality education to students from diverse backgrounds, with a particular focus on underserved communities.

Volunteers play a vital role in the school's mission, bringing their unique talents, skills, and perspectives to the classroom and beyond.

One of the primary ways in which volunteers contribute is by teaching classes in their areas of competence.Volunteers are given the choice to choose a topic and teach it as an elective course, along with being substitute teacher when needed. Whether it's math, science, English, or history, volunteers bring their expertise and passion to the classroom, helping students develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter and building their confidence and skills.

In addition to teaching, volunteers also provide invaluable support to students through tutoring and coaching. They work one-on-one with students who need extra help, providing guidance and encouragement as they work to achieve their goals. Volunteers also coach a variety of sports, from water polo to wrestling, helping students develop their athletic abilities while also fostering teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. Saint Benedicts Prep has thrived in all of the sports they offer to the student body, but they are nationally recognized for their basketball and soccer programs.

In addition to their work with the students, volunteers also have the opportunity to explore and engage with the vibrant and diverse city of Newark. From museums and cultural events to community service and social justice initiatives, there are countless ways for volunteers to make a positive impact on the local community and deepen their understanding of the complex issues facing urban America. Newark Abbey is also a couple mile walk from Penn Station, which will take you to New York City in about 20 minutes.

Volunteering at Newark Abbey and St. Benedict's Preparatory School is a unique and rewarding experience that offers individuals the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while gaining valuable skills and personal growth. By sharing their time, energy, and expertise, volunteers help create a brighter future for the students and communities they serve, while also experiencing the rich history, culture, and vitality of Newark, New Jersey.

THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED

2003-2004: Nick Bancks

2004-2005: Ryan Radmer & Robert Kirsch

2005-2006: Andy Dirksen & Michael-Leonard Hahn, OSB

2006-2007: Nick Briese & David Sadder

2007-2008: Jonathan Seldat & Ted Welle

2009-2010: Will Gilbert, Pat Hayes, & Jake Barnes

2010-2011: Michael Goggin, Trey Thompson, & Kevin Finley

2011-2012: Paul Johnson, Andy Happe, & Eric Grussing

2012-2013: Ryan Miller & Jake Ingalls

2013-2014: Ryan Wold & Nick Crowley

2014-2015: Cody Lynch & Chuck Dudek 

2015-2016: Christopher Heitzig & Jeremy Welters, OSB

2016-2017: Nick Zurn, Marcus Vievering, Brayan Garibay, & Joseph Evavold

2017-2018: Jared McComber & Connor Magee

2018-2019: Danny Gillis, Lincoln Mullings, Augustus Kjolhaug, & Jon Kleist

2019-2020: Ryan Gall & Kevin Lamb

2020-2021: Joshua Aune, Nick Swanson, & Alex Modeas

2021-2022: Rob McManus, Johnny Krawcyzk, & Tyler Johnson

2022-2023: Thomas Skindingsrud