Don Hilario ’01

Faith Formation for Children at SJN — Irvine

Why this Organization/Cause is Important to You or the Nominee
I’ve volunteered as a 6th-grade catechist at St. John Neumann in Irvine every Wednesday from 5–6:15 p.m., September through May, since 2012. It’s my way of living out the values LMU instilled in me — faith in action, service with purpose, and leadership through example. For over a decade, I’ve committed to helping students not only learn their faith but live it — grounding them in compassion, integrity, and a sense of belonging that endures far beyond the classroom. 

Length of Service with the Organization/Cause
13 years

Share Advice to Guide Students Hoping to Pursue a Career with Social Impact or in Nonprofit Industries
My advice is to start small but stay consistent — service isn’t about scale, it’s about sincerity. Whether you teach one class, mentor one student, or volunteer one hour a week, the impact compounds when it’s done with heart. If you want to get involved, reach out to your local parish or youth ministry; they’re always looking for volunteers willing to show up, listen, and lead by example.

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