Jordan Tilton, NDMV Volunteer

This story centers on Jordan learning that simple, genuine offers of help can open the door to meaningful relationships. What begins as a small question—“Is there anything I can help you with?”—becomes a powerful way to build trust, show dignity, and meet real needs. Through these everyday interactions, Jordan realizes that service is less about having all the answers and more about being present, attentive, and willing to walk alongside others.

Lea Marshall, NDMV Site Manager & Alum

Lea reflects on her service experience, highlighting how music became a powerful way to connect with others and build community. Through shared songs and moments, she discovered that service fosters joy, belonging, and mutual transformation. Her letter the message emphasizes that showing up with openness and authenticity can have a deep impact.

Alexis Powers, NDMV Alum

A single year of service can change everything.— Alexis Powers discovered that showing up for others also transforms you. Serving immigrants and refugees in Clarkston, she built meaningful relationships, grew in confidence and leadership, and saw firsthand how small acts can create lasting impact.

Lisa, NDMV’s Recruitment Coordinator

“Look for the helpers.” That saying guided Lisa along her journey. After earning a PhD and teaching, she wasn’t sure where she was headed—until her service year teaching English to newly arrived immigrants and teaching environmental education. Lisa’s journey reminds us that when you show up to serve others, you often find purpose in return.

Natalie Reina, NDMV Alum

Learn more about how Natalie's time with NDMV shaped her life and career. What began as a service placement at a school in California grew into a deep commitment to community, leadership, and compassion—sparking her work as a therapist and guiding her continued impact long after her service year ended.

Cora, NDMV’s Director of Communications

A heartfelt reflection from Cora, NDMV’s Director of Communications, on Martin Luther King Jr.’s “Drum Major Instinct,” this letter invites readers to reimagine greatness as service. It connects personal calling, NDMV’s mission, and the power of choosing love and justice through everyday acts of service.

Peter Lynch, NDMV Alum

Peter’s years of service with NDMV transformed not just his understanding of education and community, but also his whole outlook on life. Through deep connections with students, colleagues, and families, Peter gained a new awareness of others’ experiences — a perspective that continues to guide his teaching and sense of calling years later.

John, NDMV Alum and Director of Impact & Grant Management

In this thoughtful letter, John reflects on how his NDMV service year shaped his life and calling. He shares stories of growth, relationships, and the courage to say yes to service, reminding us that the impact of NDMV continues long after the year ends—through people who lead with compassion wherever they go.

Mary Margaret, NDMV Alum

Mary Margaret’s two years with NDMV helped her grow into the compassionate educator she is today. Through lasting connections with students and her community—and even by stepping into teaching art when the need arose unexpectedly—she discovered that teaching is more than a job; it’s a calling to serve with love, empathy, and joy.