What started nearly two centuries ago has influenced 2015 BHS graduate Maya Flowers’ weekly routine.  Each Sunday evening, she is among those serving the homeless people of Pittsburgh through the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic-based organization that was started by students in 1845.

 

Known as the “Apostle of Charity” and the “Father of the Poor,” St. Vincent de Paul’s namesake organization carries out his mission to help the needy.  Every week, a group of students from Duquesne University, including Flowers, walk downtown delivering hot meals, water, and hygiene items to the homeless in Downtown Pittsburgh.

 

“I got involved through a national service sorority,” said Flowers, who is finishing her Freshman year at Duquesne University this month.  “The men and women I have served have really appreciated our donations of time and resources. It has really opened my eyes to the homeless community.”

 

Through her service, Flowers has made new friends and learned about life from a different perspective.  She has found a calling among the homeless and hopes to find new ways to contribute to their well-being when she returns in the fall.  With over 60 hours of community service with the Gamma Sigma Sigma sorority, Flowers was awarded the Spirit Award for her efforts.  Additionally, she is active with Best Buddies, a mentoring program with developmentally delayed teens and adults.

 

As for her summer plans, Flowers just left for Ghana, Africa for a month-long study abroad program. Her team will be visiting a kindergarten and a high school, donating school supplies and providing mentoring programs for the students there.  She will be studying African culture, music, religion and art during her time there and will also be going on a safari.   Her commitment to helping others will continue upon her return, as she begins shadowing several Occupational Therapists in order to determine which career direction she will pursue in the fall.