Back the Bend 2026
Back the Bend 2026 is the 15th time that the University of Notre Dame's Student Government has partnered with the South Bend community and other local colleges and universities to conduct a day of service. Each year, it is the largest single day of service at Notre Dame. In its best year, over 600 volunteers participated in this day of service. This year, our goal is to have 1,000 volunteers.
We believe everyone is called to contribute to and engage with members of our community to build relationships and make it a better place. Our theme, “Share Your Light. Back the Bend” highlights the light each person has to offer. At a time when division seems ever-present, it is so important for us to illuminate the power of unity and our shared communion as beloved children of God. This necessitates more than one day of service, but in coming together to accomplish meaningful projects, we strive to encourage relationships and partnerships that last far beyond this single day.
If you would like to be part of this amazing day of community, please sign up using the link below.
Please feel free to reach out to Student Government's Director of Community Service, Owen McDonald at omcdonal@nd.edu with any questions.