Volunteer Opportunities at NDSM
Help Shape Tomorrow's Leaders
At Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, volunteers play an essential role in creating a vibrant, supportive school community. Whether you’re working with students, lending a hand at events, or assisting with administrative tasks, your time and talents help our mission come alive. No teaching experience is needed — just a generous spirit and a belief in the power of education to shape confident, compassionate leaders for the future.
Make an Impact During and After the School Day
Volunteers are at the heart of our vibrant NDSM community. Whether you join us during school hours or in the afternoon, your presence helps students feel seen, supported, and inspired to reach their potential.
During the School Day Opportunities
- Tutor a student or small group in English literacy, Spanish, Math, or English as a Second Language (ESL).
- Supervise and engage with students in the cafeteria or on the playground.
- Support our front office staff with important administrative tasks.
- Bring your group of 10-20 friends or coworkers to a Lend-A-Hand Day and learn about NDSM firsthand with small group experiences in classrooms.
- Volunteer in our library—helping students choose books, managing check-outs, and supporting the behind-the-scenes organization of materials.
- Share your expertise as a guest at a Leadership Lunch, inspiring students with your career journey.
- Chaperone field trips or assist with school activities to create lasting memories for our students.
- Contribute your time and talents at special school events and celebrations.
After School Enrichment
- Provide tutoring and homework help to students who need extra support.
- Lead or create a unique after-school club that sparks curiosity and creativity.
- Coach a sports team and help our students build teamwork, confidence, and skills.
Serve on a Board or Committee
Volunteering beyond the classroom offers a unique chance to influence the direction and success of NDSM. Our board and committee members play a vital role in living out our school’s mission, making key decisions, and fostering growth.
Board members serve thoughtful three-year terms, renewable up to three times, contributing strategic leadership that helps secure a vibrant future for NDSM. Meanwhile, the Auxiliary Board—comprised of dynamic young professionals—focuses on event planning and alumni engagement, bringing fresh energy and new ideas to our community.
Whether your passion lies in finance, education, or community engagement, there’s a committee tailored to your interests and expertise. We invite you to consider joining one of these vital teams.
- Advancement Committee
- Finance Committee
- Buildings and Grounds Committee
- Education Committee
- Technology Committee
- Marketing Committee
- Personnel Committee
Your involvement can leave a lasting imprint—join us in this important work and be a part of something truly transformative.
Learn more about our committees.
Mentor a Middle School Student
At NDSM, mentors play a vital role in our Graduate Support Program, walking alongside middle school students as they prepare for high school and beyond. As a mentor, you become a trusted guide—offering encouragement, perspective, and a steady hand as students build confidence, set goals, and discover their potential.
Mentors help students strengthen their values, stay engaged in school, and envision bright futures by fostering self-esteem, sharing life skills, and expanding their awareness of what’s possible. As a mentor, you’ll connect with your mentee 2–3 times per month. Mentees participate in weekly, workshop-style classes that explore a range of personal and professional development themes.
Mentors are invited to join select sessions to share their career journeys, life lessons, or growth experiences. You’ll also have the chance to participate in special events such as our “Walk and Talk” sessions, a culminating mini networking event, or even host a workplace visit to help students gain real-world exposure to different career paths. To build a meaningful relationship, a minimum one-year commitment is asked of mentors.
For more information, please email Veronica Romo, Director of Graduate Support, or call (414) 316-5740.
Volunteer at a Special Event
Throughout the year, NDSM hosts inspiring events that raise vital funds and welcome new friends into our school community. Our signature event, the Salsa Sampler, is a lively sit-down dinner and auction that draws more than 400 guests in celebration of our mission. Volunteers bring these moments to life, helping with everything from planning the program and gathering auction items to designing creative décor and ensuring a seamless setup and teardown on the big day. Your energy and ideas make every event unforgettable and impactful.
From the moment I walked the halls of Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, I knew I had found something extraordinary. What began as a simple volunteer experience quickly grew into a deep and lasting commitment. I’ve witnessed firsthand how the teachers pour their hearts into these children—not just as educators, but as mentors, mothers, and champions. As someone who grew up facing challenges of my own, I connect deeply with the mission to give every child the opportunity they deserve. The students’ joy, resilience, and dreams are infectious—from aspiring doctors to YouTubers, their hope lights up every corner of the school. Supporting NDSM fills my cup in ways I never expected. I may be the one giving, but I receive so much more in return.
- Terry Hattersley
Donor, Volunteer, Mentor, and Board Member
From the moment I stepped into Notre Dame School of Milwaukee over 20 years ago, I felt an undeniable pull—everything I cared about was there: education, faith, community, and real results. Supporting NDSM has allowed me to use my time, talents, and treasures in the most meaningful way. I’ve seen firsthand how deeply families are involved, how the school walks beside students long after 8th grade, and how even with less public funding, NDSM delivers more. When you donate here, your dollar stretches further, your impact grows deeper, and your heart finds a home.
- Cindy Steffes
Donor, Mentor, Committee Member, and Volunteer
Safety and Training Requirements
At NDSM, keeping our students safe is our highest priority — and as a volunteer, you are an essential part of that commitment. The Archdiocese of Milwaukee’s Safeguarding All of God’s Family program reminds us all of the shared responsibility to protect and care for every child in our school community.
Thank you for helping us create a safe, welcoming space where every child can grow, learn, and flourish.
Complete Two Steps Before Volunteering
Discover Your Perfect Way to Make an Impact
We want your volunteer experience at NDSM to be as meaningful for you as it is for our students. By learning more about your talents, passions, and interests, we can match you with an opportunity that aligns beautifully with both your gifts and our school’s needs.
For more information about volunteering, please email or call Pat Mooney, Director of Development. We also encourage you to complete our volunteer interest form to help us match you to opportunities.