This holds true for churches, youth groups, Bible studies, Catholic schools, and more. At Tampa Catholic High School, dedicated adults generously share their time and God-given talents, extending the school’s impact far beyond what might seem possible. During National Volunteer Month in April, Tampa Catholic High School gratefully recognizes those who support our student life and athletics programs.

Cassandra Mitchell, mother of two Tampa Catholic High School students, one a 2018 graduate and another currently a junior, has given her time in a wide range of roles. Her involvement includes serving as Varsity Football Team Mom, a Gala Committee member in multiple leadership roles, Catholic Schools Week Chairperson, Grandparents Day assistant, Blessed Edmund Rice Day Co-Chairperson, Faculty Christmas Luncheon Committee member, concessions volunteer, Prom Committee Co-Chairperson, and a leader within the Crusader Parent Club.

When asked which area she enjoys most, Cassandra emphasized the value found in every opportunity.

“I can’t name one specific event over another because I enjoy all of them,” she said. “Each time I support an event, I meet new parents, interact with some of the sweetest students, and always walk away feeling that I, in some small way, contributed to another successful TC endeavor.”

Carrie Burchett, mother of a current junior, also finds meaning in volunteering as a way to stay connected to her daughter’s activities. She has contributed her time to Crusader for a Day, a committee member for the DiMaggio Memorial Golf Tournament, the Crusaderettes dance team, and the Tampa Catholic Theater program.

“Volunteering with the Crusaderettes dance team and the Tampa Catholic Theater group allows me to spend more time with my daughter - it does not feel like volunteer ‘work’ at all,” she said.

While she values those shared experiences, Carrie says Crusader for a Day remains especially meaningful, having served as chairperson for the past three years.

“Crusader for a Day offers eighth grade students the opportunity to visit the TC campus,” she said. “My daughter loved her experience as an eighth grader participating in Crusader for a Day so much that she chose Tampa Catholic based on that event. Each year the campus is flooded with potential students. It is fun to see their excitement and energy.”

Volunteering also provides a closer look at how programs support student growth and success. Through her involvement, Cassandra has seen firsthand the intentionality behind Tampa Catholic’s efforts.

“I see the growth and progress being made. I see the intent, and I see the thought behind the actions,” she said.

Carrie shares a similar perspective.

“As a volunteer, I witness the love and support that the TC community has for each other,” she said. “My faith is fortified and strengthened by being surrounded by people working to make Tampa Catholic a great place to learn and grow for its students.”

For Cassandra, service goes beyond simply helping, it is an expression of faith.

“I cannot expect to be helped or blessed abundantly if I am not willing to be a blessing to someone or something,” she said. “Time is one of the most precious gifts anyone can give, and offering it with a cheerful heart speaks volumes about your commitment to your faith and to serving others.”

She encourages parents and alumni to get involved in ways that fit their schedules and abilities.

“Be like Nike and ‘Just do it!’” she said. “Volunteering at Tampa Catholic is flexible—it is not one-size-fits-all. While I spend a lot of time volunteering at the school and its events, many of my hours have also been spent off campus—spray-painting decorations, delivering team meals, printing labels and stickers, assembling event gifts—you name it! There is so much to do, and you can start small if your schedule is limited. Every minute helps and is always appreciated!”

Carrie agrees, noting that opportunities to serve extend beyond campus.

“There are volunteer options for parents to participate from the comfort of their home,” she said.

For many, volunteering is a meaningful way to give back in gratitude. Carrie reflects on the support her family has received over the past three years, both in joyful and challenging times, as a driving force behind her service.

That spirit of service often inspires the next generation. Cassandra’s son, Adrian Mitchell ’18, now gives back as the varsity girls’ flag football coach and boys’ JV football coach, continuing the example set before him.

Those interested in volunteering at Tampa Catholic can learn more by contacting Missy Vivino at MVivino@tampacatholic.org or by browsing opportunities on x2VOL.

For more information about Tampa Catholic High School, click here.