Maddie Thompson is a Good Shepherd Volunteer serving at Collier High School in New Jersey. After growing up in St. Louis, she graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in theology and peace studies and a minor in Catholic social tradition. Maddie has a passion for community, a love for pottery, and a never-ending desire to explore.
Notes from the Field - Serving at Collier High School has allowed me to glimpse small pieces of our students' worlds as they invite me into their stories. It has been a privilege to learn even a bit about who they are as young adults.
Notes from the Field - A quote from Dallas Clayton reminds me to get out of my head and step into the real world — to get growing right where my two feet find themselves planted. This is much easier said than done.
Notes from the Field - A tradition for Good Shepherd Volunteers is Collier Chats, lighthearted conversations with co-workers that allow me to get to know the people who make Collier High School what it is.
Notes from the Field - I have found that trying to remain present has provided me with the opportunity to be surprised — by students, classes, staff, or even the weather.
Notes from the Field - Though the pandemic has turned the world upside-down, the tenets of social justice, simplicity, spirituality and community provide solid ground for my Good Shepherd Volunteer year.
Notes from the Field - The inaugural poet's words, now dancing amid a mural of wildflowers in Collier High School, remind us of the obstacles we have had to overcome and provide us strength for the many more we will face.
Notes from the Field: It was a gift to be able to support Collier High School students as they prepared for a virtual Model United Nations conference. In a divided world, these students set a brave example.
Notes from the Field - My service year so far at Collier High School has been filled with nothing but the unexpected. When thinking of what I wanted less of in 2021, I immediately wanted to draw a symbol for the unexpected.
Notes from the Field - Serving in a space like Collier High School renews my sense of hope even when a piece of my heart constantly feels weighed down by the recognition of the world's pain.
Notes from the Field: The journey through the Collier High School's transition program looks as unique as each of our students, but we get through by climbing over, sliding around, going under and forging new trails.
Notes from the Field - The mission of Collier Youth Services is "to provide at-risk youth a chance to grow toward their potential in an environment that promotes belonging, dignity and hope."
