University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy Shows Hometown Commitment

In early October 880 young men in grades 7-12 – the entire student body of the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy – helped to beautify three Detroit landmarks as part of the third annual Pledge Detroit! program.

The young “men for others,” along with faculty and staff, cleaned, removed invasive species, planted bulbs and created pathways at Belle Isle Park, Palmer Park and Historic Fort Wayne. Over 1,600 man-hours were donated.

In addition to providing a school-sponsored community service opportunity, Pledge Detroit! was established by the U of D Jesuit Student Senate as an innovative fundraiser. Students collected pledges from family, friends and the wider community not only to support their service activities in Detroit, but also to help fund scholarships for their fellow students. This year, U of D Jesuit students planned to raise over $130,000 for this initiative.

“Simply put, this is what our school is all about,” said Jesuit Father Karl Kiser, president of U of D Jesuit. “Our goal is to educate men for others who will go out, live successful lives and serve their communities. I’m so proud that our students created U of D Jesuit Pledge Detroit! which serves as a tangible example of living our mission and commitment to the City of Detroit.”

Detroit Mayor Dave Bing also applauded the students’ efforts. “I am once again gratified by U of D Jesuit’s ongoing commitment to the City of Detroit,” he said. “The students’ initiative to make a real difference in our community should serve as an example to organizations across metro Detroit.” [U of D Jesuit]