Partners in Mission
Alison Hernandez (right) with Cora Davis, NDMV Communications Director (left)
By Cora Davis, Communications Director
In the heart of Atlanta, a unique partnership flourishes between Notre Dame Mission Volunteers (NDMV) and Catholic Charities Atlanta (CCA). This collaboration has been thriving for over eight years, driven by a shared commitment to serving the community and uplifting those in need. NDMV members seamlessly integrate into the CCA team, bringing fresh energy and innovative ideas that enhance the organization's mission.
Alison Hernandez, Sr. Director, Refugee Services at CCA, helped connect us with CCA when she was an NDMV Site Manager in Atlanta in 2017. She was looking for partnering sites that connected her passion to support people arriving in the US for the first time, along with her love for service. She described the connection between CCA and NDMV as a perfect fit. She said, "There's such a common link of what brings people in-Everyone comes in with a mind to serve".
CCA loves having NDMV members at the office. "They have energy and excitement," Alison said. For many NDMV members, this experience is their first taste of professional development. They are fully integrated into the CCA team, participating in all meetings and receiving training that enhances their skills and expertise.
When NDMV members have completed their daily commitments, they have opportunities to explore other aspects of the agency. For example, if a member was interested in immigration law, they could spend some time with staff who work in the legal department. This provides members with a comprehensive view of the various services CCA offers, from resettlement assistance to case management for immigrant families. One member, for instance, volunteered to assist the case management team outside of his assigned responsibilities. He had a variety of experiences and opportunities to help families navigate the complexities of new life in the United States.
NDMV members play a crucial role in providing individualized attention to children and families. Most members serve within the youth services department, spending time mentoring students and serving at after-school programs. Alison said, "they add a lot of capacity—the more adults investing in students 1-1, the better. Kids do need individualized attention, and [NDMV] members can provide that." The skills and fresh perspectives that these volunteers bring—many of whom have just graduated college—enrich CCA's programming, introducing new techniques to support the organization's goals.
One of the standout aspects of the partnership is the openness and encouragement for NDMV members to express their passions. If a member has a talent for gardening, for example, they can help establish a gardening club for the children. This approach not only helps cultivate new interests but also connects the volunteers and the youth in unique, engaging ways.
Catholic Charities Atlanta and Notre Dame Mission Volunteers are more than just partners; they are united in a common purpose—empowering families to achieve self-sufficiency and helping them reclaim stability and hope in their lives. Together, they continue to create lasting change, reflecting the spirit of compassion and community service that defines their missions. Together, we can Love in Action in the Atlanta area!
