In the words of Dorothy Day, “What we would like to do is change the world—make it a little simpler for people to
feed, clothe, and shelter themselves as God intended them to do.” Her vision resonates deeply with the mission of the Ignatian Volunteer Corps (IVC) in Milwaukee, where compassion meets action and service creates ripples of change.
As we embark on the 2024-2025 program year, we reflect on the powerful call of St. Ignatius “to love and to serve.” In times of great need, his message mobilized a community dedicated to addressing the social and spiritual challenges of their era. Today, this call echoes even louder, inviting each of us to step forward and respond to the pressing needs of our time.
The IVC Milwaukee community is answering that call with profound commitment:
• 34 Active Service Corps Members are dedicating their talents and energy to serve.
• 14 Community Partner Agencies benefit from the invaluable support of these members.
• Together, they contribute over 275 hours each week in direct service, creating meaningful impact across the region.
Their work spans a variety of essential efforts, including:
• Literacy and education support, such as tutoring over 250 children in Seton Catholic Schools.
• Strategic planning, data analytics, and curriculum development to improve early childhood education.
• Providing administrative and staff support for care workers.
• Offering direct assistance to children, the incarcerated, immigrants, and women at risk.
• Managing large-scale projects that enhance the reach and efficiency of partner agencies.
One shining example of IVC’s impact comes from the Seton Catholic Schools Milwaukee. What began as a modest tutoring program with one IVC member and a handful of children has grown into a transformative initiative replicated across eight schools. Today, nearly 100 community tutors are involved, with nine IVC Service Corps Members managing the program seamlessly.
Amy Barbiaux, a leader at Seton Catholic Schools, recently shared this heartfelt reflection: “Messages like this from a partner agency show the incredible impact IVC is having. Yesterday, during a retreat at the Milwaukee Thrive House, I read Amy’s message aloud to our community. It was a beautiful reminder of the joy and meaning we all share in this work.”
This example is just one among countless others, highlighting how the work happening in Milwaukee is mirrored and multiplied across IVC Nation. The fruits of this service extend far and wide, thanks to the shared leadership, dedication, and passion of IVC’s network.
Beyond service, the IVC community gathers monthly to reflect, grow spiritually, and support one another. This unique integration of service and spirituality is what sets IVC apart—a community responding to the world’s deepest needs while nurturing their own inner transformation.
Now, more than ever, the world needs compassionate individuals who work together to make a difference. Inspired by Dorothy Day’s prayer, we strive to enlarge our hearts and love deeply, trusting that our collective efforts will create ever-widening circles of hope and healing.
Will you join us in this mission?
– Monica Meagher, IVC Milwaukee Regional Director