This July, I have been given the incredible opportunity to travel with McQuaid Jesuit to St. Anne’s Mission in Klagetoh, Arizona, located on the Navajo Nation. For eleven days, our group will live simply, serve generously, and learn deeply alongside the Navajo community.

St. Anne’s Mission is a Franciscan ministry that serves as both a parish and a vital outreach center. The Mission supports the Navajo people through home repair projects, children’s programming, nutrition assistance, and services for the elderly. The Navajo Reservation is the largest Native American reservation in the United States and is home to some of the poorest communities in our country, with nearly 40% of the population living below the poverty line. Many families face limited employment opportunities, a lack of running water, high rates of disease, and geographic isolation.

While there, I will help with hands-on service projects such as:

-Repairing roofs and fences

-Splitting wood

-Completing basic home repairs for elderly residents

-Assisting with children’s activities and community programming

Beyond the physical work, this trip is about building relationships. We will have the opportunity to listen to stories from Navajo families, learn about their traditions and culture, and reflect on our experiences through prayer and Ignatian spirituality. We will also participate in cultural experiences such as visiting Canyon de Chelly or the Grand Canyon and possibly taking part in a traditional Navajo sweat lodge.

We will live in simple dorm-style housing, help prepare our own meals, and disconnect from personal electronics to be fully present in the experience.

I am fundraising to help cover the cost of travel, lodging, meals, and program expenses. Any contribution, big or small, helps make this service opportunity possible. If you are unable to donate, sharing this page and keeping our group in your prayers would mean so much.

Thank you for supporting me as I step out of my comfort zone to serve, learn, and grow.