In the words of Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat, “Times change, and we must change with them.” Stone Ridge’s Social Action program is a living expression of this wisdom, continually evolving to meet the needs of our ever-widening community.

The roots of the Social Action program stretch back to 1949, when a student group called The Christophers was formed. Their motto, “Faith in Action,” captured the spirit of bringing Christ’s love to the broader community through meaningful service and charitable works. Over time, Stone Ridge continued to expand the program in response to changes in the Catholic Church, shifts in our nation, and the evolving needs of our community partners.

“I always feel fulfilled after my Social Action day because I see the work I am doing and how that is helping others, which is something really unique and special.”

- Emma T. ’27.

Today, the Social Action program is a cornerstone of the Upper School experience. Rooted in Goal III of Sacred Heart education, the program challenges students to recognize injustice, respond with compassion, and grow as leaders committed to a more just and sustainable future. Over the course of four years, students explore the program’s essential question: “How is my well-being bound up in yours?” The Seven Principles of Catholic Social Teaching and the Sacred Heart Way—Pause–Reflect–Discern–Decide–Act—provide a meaningful framework for examining this question. Students reflect deeply on the justice issues that impact our community and discern how to take informed action.

Students participate in 10 Social Action Days each year. Every Social Action Day begins with a community-wide assembly led by the Social Action Student Advisory Board (SASAB), where guest speakers—including Stone Ridge alumnae, community members, and non-profit leaders—frame the day with personal stories and reflections. Students then participate in grade-level-specific programming designed to build understanding and commitment over time. First Academics engage in a year-long orientation led by a team of Fourth Academic Social Action Leaders (SALs), with both on- and off-campus experiences. Second Academics rotate among multiple partner sites, gaining exposure to issues ranging from food insecurity to environmental restoration. Third and Fourth Academics commit to a sustained partnership with one organization for the entire year. Across all four years, reflection anchors the experience. Guided by the Reflection Team leaders, students pause to consider what they are learning and how they might carry these lessons into their daily lives.

“I have learned about the importance of reflection as a part of Social Action,” shared Third Academic and SASAB member Avery C. ’27. “It has helped me to more fully engage myself in the work I am doing and recognize its impact. Service does not always have to be big actions; it can be small things in everyday life, too.”

“I get really excited and inspired by the work of the students and faculty around me, which always leaves me with a sense of wanting to do more for my own community,” noted SASAB member and Third Academic student Emma T. ’27. “I always feel fulfilled after my Social Action day because I see the work I am doing and how that is helping others, which is something really unique and special.”

Through the Social Action Program, students engage in meaningful partnerships with more than 30 organizations across the DC Metro Area, which address critical needs in education, environmental protection and restoration, equitable access to housing and food, inclusion initiatives, and elderly care support. The program is made possible by the generosity of our community partners, who welcome our students and guide them into their work. By integrating direct service with social justice education, students develop long‐lasting relationships rooted in compassion, respect, and mutual reciprocity. ❤