New Directions exists for the purpose of providing long term leadership to the underprivileged high school students of inner city Philadelphia. Many of these students are otherwise lacking sources of positive support. With this in mind, we aspire to encourage these teenagers to develop into well rounded, mature individuals through a series of fun and educational outings. The program is designed to nurture the relationships between all mentors and students in an attempt to meet the spiritual, social, and emotional needs of Philadelphia's youth. It is also meant to help them increase their sense of self worth. This is accomplished simply by acting as positive influences, earning their respect, and teaching by example!

The Villanova students make visits about twice a month to St. Charles of Borromeo parish in South Philadelphia. At present there are 34 high school students and about 40 Villanova students. They do various activities, such as outings to museums, visits to Villanova campus, study sessions. For more information please contact John McAtee at 610-5106940 or john.mcatee@villanova.edu