autumn 2016 vol 17 • no 4

Shelter the Homeless

parish profile roundtable last word St. John of the Cross Homelessness New Hope Apartments 4 6 18

SPIRIT magazine contents autumn 2016

autumn 2016 vol 17, no 4

editor Jamie Lynn Ferguson writers Communications Department Development Department Program Service Areas photos Catholic Charities Communications and Program Archives creative director Jennifer Sirota art design Kathleen Gabriel

editorial board Rev. Monsignor Michael M. Boland president Kathy Donahue senior vice president, program development & evaluation John Ryan Shelter the Homeless chief of staff Judith Silekis director of development Kristine Kappel director of communications monsignor boland  parish profile 2 Lifting Up Those in Need 4 St. John of the Cross of Shelter roundtable 6 Perceptions of Homelessness

spirit magazine program news

© Catholic Charities 2016 9 Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago events

721 North LaSalle Street 14 Chicago, Illinois 60654 Spirit Magazine is published the last word by Catholic Charities of the 18 My daughter was Archdiocese of Chicago murdered… for its friends, clients and benefactors. Spirit Magazine Editors and Staff Phone (312) 655-7010 [email protected] Postage paid in Chicago, IL 60654 Postmaster: Send change of address to: Spirit Magazine 721 N. LaSalle Street Chicago, Illinois 60654 2016 Jubilee

www.catholiccharities.net/spirit of Mercy monsignor boland

Lifting Up Those in Need of Shelter

Rev. Monsignor Michael M. Boland president of catholic charities Shelter is one of our most critical needs. In many ways, it serves as the foundation, or the building block, of our survival. Often, we hear people ask questions of the homeless, such as “Why don’t they just get a job?” or criticisms like, “If they had worked harder, they wouldn’t be in this situation.” One thing we must remember is that without the foundation of shelter, stability crumbles, and the goals that we strive for become increasingly more difficult to reach without it. …more than 50% of Chicago’s homeless are children.

Losing our foundation means that we become unable to focus on anything other than finding a safe place to lay our heads. Even the simplest needs like clean clothing, a place to shower, and a hot meal become an incredible challenge. All the groundbreaking new study Catholic Charities of these things are necessary before a homeless participated in through a partnership with The individual can reach that next step of securing a Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities job, and returning to safe housing. For all of these at the University of Notre Dame, where our needs, and more, Catholic Charities is there to Homelessness Prevention Call Center was proven offer a hand-up to the homeless, and carry them to be an effective and efficient way to save taxpayer back up to the place where they are physically, dollars and prevent families from entering the mentally, and spiritually whole again. ranks of the homeless. Throughout this issue, we hope to bring to Join us as we lift up the homeless men, women, light the face of homelessness in our city. We and children of our city who don’t have the often think of the chronically homeless as the comfort of home, and instead are in circumstances only people seeking help – those who face mental surrounded by fear, uncertainty, and potential health issues and drug and alcohol addiction, and violence. Pope Francis tells us as he speaks to the those we encounter panhandling downtown or world about lifting up those in need that we must near the expressway ramps. While these men and show these individuals that they are important. We women also need our care, they are not the only can do this by helping them with their basic needs, individuals seeking shelter. In fact, more than 50% honoring their dignity, and beginning them on of Chicago’s homeless are children. their journey toward the self-sufficiency that will lift Catholic Charities programs work collaboratively them out of poverty. May their challenges resonate toward a common goal of ending homelessness with us, and remind us how important our work in Chicago. Also in this issue, you’ll learn about here today really is.

SPIRIT autumn 2016 3 St. John of the Cross Western Springs

Parish Profile

St John of the Cross Parish is a caring community that cherishes its parish heritage, and generously shares its varied gifts and resources with others. In its mission, the parish states “We live our Catholic Faith, celebrate the Sacraments, and pursue Recognizing Value “We’re always looking to provide assistance to people who do their job When St. John of the Cross sees a life-long religious education so well,” said Outreach Director Bill good thing, they invest in it with Bright. “We recognize what was been and formation opportunities time, treasure, and talent. That’s accomplished and support the people why, Father David Dowdle said, SJC that support us in being who do it.” gives generously to Catholic Charities Catholic Charities Refugee witnesses and proclaimers Mother’s Day collection; Resettlement Program is one of those

of the Gospel…To support programs that SJC recognizes as

“We’re always looking “done well.” The program provides this mission, we will to provide assistance comprehensive resettlement services to communicate effectively, refugees as they adapt to a new country, promote lay leadership and to people who do and seek housing, employment, and self-sufficiency. For our refugee families collaborative models of their job so well.” and individuals, SJC has provided governance, and faithfully $25,000 worth of mattresses, held volunteers and invests in Catholic kitchen supplies and clothing drives, steward our time, talent Charities Refugee Resettlement and delivered furniture. Bright said they and treasure.” Program; and many of its parishioners are currently working on developing serve on the Catholic Charities Board a real estate presence to help provide of Advisors. housing for the program.

4 SPIRIT autumn 2016

parish profile

‘By giving, we receive so much’ father “A big part of what we do here is outreach,” Bright said. The church Dowdle even replaced its “Exit” sign with an “Entrance” sign in symbolism that Father David the parish’s true mission is to take Dowdle grew up what they have and share it outside in Forest Park the church. as one of 12 siblings. He’s served as pastor “The need for Catholic of St. John of the Cross since 2007. Charities is greater “I love being pastor of this vibrant than ever.” parish,” Dowdle said. “Parents of our school children and those in our religious education program “This parish has been a huge part of are so generous with their time, my life transformation as a man, father talent and treasure…they are smart, and Christian,” Bright said. “I get to For many years, Catholic Charities experienced, and willing to invest work with some of the nicest, finest, provided counseling out of an office in of themselves in this community in well-prepared people I’ve ever met.” the SJC rectory to parish members and part because they hope to be here the surrounding community. Recently, for a long time.” Father Charles Rubey spoke at Mass Dowdle said that the parish to begin a partnership between the focuses on outreach so that they church and Catholic Charities LOSS don’t become “self-satisfied.” program, which provides support to “Our Outreach and Sharing Parish those grieving the loss of a loved one programs are so very important,” he because of suicide. said. “They are constant reminders “He was so well-received and of the privileges we enjoy and that his ministry is a critical resource,” we have a responsibility to share Dowdle said. “I think we all need to with those who have so many learn how to blow our own horn in different challenges.” letting people know the important Dowdle said a scripture that and good things that Catholic guides the parish is Matthew 25:40, Charities is involved with.” “Whatever you did for one of the The church has more than 4,000 least of these…you did for me.” attendees and its school has 650 “Helping to relieve suffering students. and provide whatever is within our means is an obligation our

PHOTOS parents take very seriously for their Father Dowdle, is one of those children,” Dowdle said. “The identity people, Bright said. Dowdle, who has (TOP LEFT) The sanctuary at St. John of the of the parish is lived out best when served as pastor at SJC for 10 years, Cross in Western Springs. we do this as well as we can.” said he’s inspired by Catholic Charities (MIDDLE LEFT) Volunteers sort donations Dowdle’s personal favorite “ability to touch and impact systemic from a school supplies drive benefiting scripture is John 10:10, “I have and individual needs.” Catholic Charities clients. come that you might have life, and “The need for Catholic Charities is (TOP RIGHT) Father David Dowdle poses for have life abundantly.” greater than ever,” Dowdle said. a photo with a few of the children from SJC.

SPIRIT autumn 2016 5 Perceptions of Homelessness

No one chooses to become homeless. Yet on any given night, more than 6,700 Chicagoans don’t Debbie Reznick have a place to call home. Often, one setback Senior Program Officer at like a job loss, death of the head of household, or the Polk Bros. Foundation unexpected medical expenses can lead to a spiral of events that result in homelessness for an individual or family. In the midst of a state budget crisis that limits social service agencies’ ability to serve clients, Catholic Charities is committed to providing services Millicent Ntiamoah to those most vulnerable, and sheltering those Catholic Charities currently and at-risk of homelessness. To weigh in Associate Vice President on the subject, this issue’s RoundTable features of Housing Services Debbie Reznick, Senior Program Officer at the Polk Bros. Foundation; Millicent Ntiamoah, Catholic Charities Associate Vice President of Housing Services; and Stefanie Skaggs, Development and Communications Manager at All Chicago. Stefanie Skaggs Development and What are some common misconceptions about Communications Manager homelessness? at All Chicago Debbie One of the biggest misconceptions is that nothing can be done. Homelessness is, in fact, a solvable problem. A wide body of research shows that housing-based solutions, combined with the right supports, can end the cycle of homelessness. Millicent Homelessness is a complex issue and different things happen to different people for different reasons. There’s always more to the story of the people you see sitting outside living without a roof over their heads.

6 SPIRIT autumn 2016 roundtable

The faces of homelessness are ever-changing and often misconceived. Pictured left are children residents of Catholic Charities Madonna House, our family homeless shelter in Chicago.

Stefanie Homelessness Prevention Call Center. Any community Homelessness doesn’t happen in a day. It is a series of member in need of emergency financial assistance can call events that unfold one after another in a person’s life. 311 and request “short-term help” to be connected to the For many working families, a single financial setback like Homelessness Prevention Call Center and be screened for job loss or unforeseen medical expenses can become the referral. 93% of clients surveyed reported that Emergency catalyst for a serious cycle of crisis and the eventual loss Fund assistance was effective in resolving the crisis. of their financial security and housing stability. Without a home, it’s nearly impossible to create sustainable, In what ways can our communities work together positive life changes. All Chicago believes that all our to end homelessness? neighbors deserve stable and secure homes that stand as a foundation for a brighter future. Debbie We can be more effective if we work across systems, In what unique ways do you see Catholic Charities increasing strategic partnerships and coordination between those who provide homeless services, early working to shelter the homeless? childhood and public education, foster care, healthcare, Debbie and employment support. But to end homelessness, we Catholic Charities has made a profound impact on need business leaders, policymakers, and community Illinois’ most vulnerable residents. Polk Bros. Foundation members to advocate for policy changes at the local, has supported Catholic Charities for 20 years, providing state, and national levels. Our society has more than $1.2 million in grants since 1996. Catholic Charities adequate economic capacity to invest in the housing and comprehensive array of services includes financial services we need to completely eliminate homelessness. assistance to people who are at risk of being evicted, Millicent short- and long-term housing for veterans, families, youth There’s always going to be people who fall by the and people with disabilities, and outreach to people who wayside, people lose jobs, and not everybody has are staying in places not meant for human habitation. enough savings – anybody can become homeless. So Millicent it’s about having enough resources in the system to Catholic Charities is an active participant is our assist anybody who becomes homeless so that we can continuum of care and within that group we and other get them back on their feet. community partners are working together by pulling our Stefanie resources together in order to end homelessness or reach When it comes to tackling complex social issues like virtual zero which means we will be able to assist people homelessness, a collaborative approach is critical. We quickly when they become homeless or fall on hard times. know that with all stakeholders working better together Stefanie in an atmosphere of open trust and dialogue, we can All Chicago’s Emergency Fund program is extremely truly achieve our shared vision of a Chicago where all our proud to partner with Catholic Charities to run the neighbors have a place to call home.

SPIRIT autumn 2016 7 budget update

catholic charities funding Lack of State Funding Jeopardizes Homelessness Prevention Programs

On any given night, more than 6,700 Chicagoans them with funding that will prevent them from find themselves without a home or shelter bed. How becoming homeless.” they become homeless varies widely, but one thing Whether funding is available varies on a day-to- is now certain: Catholic Charities Homelessness day basis. The state budget crisis has significantly Prevention Call Center dramatically decreases the jeopardized funding, potentially leaving thousands chances they will end up on the streets and saves of people without a home and costing taxpayers taxpayer dollars when funding is available. tens of thousands of dollars in emergency shelters, transitional housing, and other services. “It’s all about getting money to the right people “It’s all about getting at the right time,” said Jim Sullivan, co-author of money to the right people the study. The cost of homelessness ranges from the at the right time.” direct costs like shelters and temporary housing Jim Sullivan to additional risk factors such as health care and Co-author of the study criminal activity. “Once you become homeless, you are much A groundbreaking new study conducted with more likely to rely on government programs, Catholic Charities by the Wilson Sheehan Lab welfare and food stamps, and become victims for Economic Opportunities at the University of or involved with criminal activity,” Sullivan Notre Dame revealed that when homelessness said. “When you add it all up, you quickly get prevention funds are available, an individual’s to a number that exceeds the cost of temporary chance of becoming homeless within six months is assistance.” reduced by 76 percent. The study also proves that This is the first time the impact of emergency a minimal investment averaging $1,000 per person financial assistance on homelessness has been to prevent someone from becoming homeless rigorously measured with a random control saves more than $20,000 per person, per year in group thanks to Catholic Charities Homelessness taxpayer funds that are needed to support a person Prevention Call Center and its unique, collaborative in a shelter and with other services. database and screening process. The data “Everyone who calls in is screened by a specialist provided from the Homelessness Prevention and taken through various questions to figure out Management Information System managed by All what their situation is and how we can help them,” Chicago is critical to the research. said Noreen Russo, director of the Call Center. “It simply makes financial and moral sense to “Then we look through our resources and provide fund programs like this,” Monsignor Boland said.

76% 60 Homelessness prevention funds reduce an Calls per day on average received individual’s chance of becoming homeless at Catholic Charities Homelessness within 6 months by 76 percent Prevention Call Center

8 SPIRIT autumn 2016 programs community development and outreach services FamilyWorks Provides Resources to Help Families Remain Housed

Securing housing is just the first step of overcoming homelessness for families in need. Self-sufficiency is the next big hurdle; to build confidence, stability, and financial security that prevents future instances of homelessness. To help families achieve that independence, Catholic Charities, as a delegate agency of the Chicago Housing Authority, offers FamilyWorks. Clients attend a FamilyWorks hiring workshop. FamilyWorks provides comprehensive wrap-around services to CHA-housed families, from youth to seniors. The FamilyWorks program also taps of Catholic Charities Community Eligible adults in the home receive into other Catholic Charities services Development and Outreach Services. workforce training and employment such as emergency assistance and “This is one of the first programs that placement; youth can access counseling. Clients receive referrals to encompass all of our service areas.” constructive after-school activities; and community resources like food pantries, Cleggs added that partnering with seniors’ needs are addressed individually child care, tutoring, and wellness CHA allows Catholic Charities to work so that they are able to stay in their services for seniors. with a targeted case load of individuals communities as long as possible. “We provide the whole family with who are unemployed and give them a “It’s helping our residents services so the entire family can be sense of pride and community. build confidence in themselves, successful,” Lucas said. “We do a lot of community events helping them prepare for self- Once the family is financially self- and workshops to get residents to sufficiency, and keeping jobs,” said sufficient, they ideally move into focus on civic engagement,” Cleggs Melissa Lucas, Regional Director non-CHA housing and another family said. “So it helps to give the residents for CHA FamilyWorks. “We teach can benefit from CHA services. The a sense of pride within themselves, time management and effective CHA selected Catholic Charities as a which ultimately benefits the communication, and other workplace delegate agency through a competitive communities where they live.” skills.” process in early 2015. In the past year, “We have residents with all kinds of The program helps with some of Catholic Charities has served more experience and skill levels, so we’re the logistics, too, like securing work than 3,000 CHA residents. always looking to place them in what’s uniforms, school supplies, State IDs, “This was a natural fit for us,” said the best fit for them,” Lucas said. and transportation support. Gina Cleggs, Associate Vice President 3,000 100% Individuals served participants showed improvement in the past year in career awareness skills

SPIRIT autumn 2016 9 child, youth, and family services Struggling Teen to Humanitarian of the Year

When Aleta was just 19, she was and struggles, and continue what on the run from her designated has blossomed into a friendship. Department of Children and Family Aleta has told Tracy that she would Services placement, pregnant, not be where she is today without and struggling with a domestic Tracy. violence situation. In contrast, For Tracy, it’s a joy to see Aleta earlier this year, she was awarded so happy and successful after their “Humanitarian of the Year” by journey together. While she gets new Secretary of State Jesse White and clients year after year, she always is now a successful business owner, makes time to be a resource and proud mother of two, and active support to her former clients, and be founder of an anti-violence nonprofit there whenever they need help. on the city’s southside. “We become mentors and “I really did struggle once I got advocates to these kids,” Tracy said. completely out on my own at such a “I gave birth to one child of my own young age,” Aleta said. “But I fought but I feel I have 15 through this hard and never gave up.” program.” Aleta, who grew up in foster care, Aleta’s humanitarian award was referred to Catholic Charities was partly made in recognition of Independent Living Program by DCFS her anti-violence efforts but also nearly 10 years ago, and enrolled in Aleta with her two children. because she collected nearly 17,000 our Independent Living Program, bottles of water to deliver to those which ensures young adults ages “I’ve always wanted more than I impacted by the Flint, Michigan water 19-21 within the child welfare system was given as a child and that’s why I crisis earlier this year. have stable housing, opportunities never let bad things defeat me,” Aleta Aleta lives in Englewood, where for continued education and said. “I was able to overcome and I 42.2% of the population lives employment, and intensive services keep pushing.” below the poverty level and the per to help them gain skills to prepare It was through the Independent capita income is $11,993. Aleta’s them for independence. Many of Living Program that Aleta met nonprofit Hugs No Slugs advocates the teens referred have experienced Catholic Charities employee Tracy for her community by organizing abuse or neglect and face emotional Reilly, her assigned case worker. peace marches and meeting with trauma, mental health problems, and Although Aleta has long since government officials to enact change. trust issues. Likewise they often enter graduated from the program, their “We feed the homeless, get guns off the program without appropriate, bond still stands. Aleta often keeps in the streets – it’s about more love,” she supportive adults in their lives. touch with Tracy, to share successes said. “I use my kids as inspiration.”

19-21 850 Ages of young adults which Catholic Charities The number of completed clinical case provides stable housing and life opportunities management home visits with clients in 2016

10 SPIRIT autumn 2016 programs family and parish support services Mobile Outreach Saves Lives, One Call at a Time

Edward Feliciano knows the number of the men and women he’s found dead by heart – 28. But just as quickly, he knows he’s saved at least 16 lives, and countless others in imminent danger. Feliciano is not a doctor or a police officer. He’s a social worker – and he serves as a driver and first responder for Catholic Charities 311/ Mobile Outreach and Call Center. In partnership with the City of Chicago, Catholic Charities 311/ Mobile Outreach and Call Center logs 40,000 requests per year as it Mobile Outreach staff meet with a senior client in her home. operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Those calling 311 in need of housing assistance, solution for their situation. The call center also refers individuals shelter, or well-being checks, are “We ask them what brought them in need of services outside of housing, sent to speak with a responder at the to this situation, how they got to be like food, job training, and legal call center, and are then referred to homeless,” Feliciano said. “Then, we services. For example, a family of services or someone like Feliciano to try to connect them with family or take seven recently called the center after help them with their situation. The them to a local shelter.” they had been evicted and didn’t most requested service, according In the 10 years Feliciano has worked understand why. to Mobile Outreach Manager Renee in Mobile Outreach in Chicago, he’s “We were able to identify through Rouse, is shelter. seen it all. He’s offered shelter to Catholic Charities legal assistance When calls for situations where homeless men and women under program that this was an illegal immediate shelter is needed, drivers the downtown viaducts, when eviction, and the family was able to like Feliciano are sent out to assist. temperatures have dipped 45 degrees go back to their home,” Rouse said. Sometimes it’s a call from a police below zero. He’s comforted victims of Feliciano, who grew up in station. Other times, it’s a hospital. domestic violence, as they hand over Englewood, said he loves serving They also receive calls from third their medical reports detailing broken through the Mobile Outreach program parties who have spotted homeless arms and black eyes. He’s comforted because his family taught him to see, individuals in need on the street. young teen moms with small children. and to love, all individuals. Feliciano said they’ll drive out to the He’s gone to the police station where “Everyone has the right to shelter,” he homeless individual wherever they are, a young homeless man has found said. “You have to look at individuals. interview them, and find them the best nowhere else to turn. You have to see their hearts.”

40,000 24/7/365 Requests per year Emergency Call Center for emergency assistance hours of operation

SPIRIT autumn 2016 11 housing services Struggling Mom Finds Peace, Shelter at Madonna House

As Dominique walks down the sidewalks of Madonna House, a cool fall breeze blows back her long black hair to reveal bright eyes and a big smile. Dominique, 26, has a 3-year-old daughter and 6-year-old son. Her son is standing next to her, waving a drawing above his head to show her his creation. “It’s chicken and monkey ice cream!” he tells her, laughing. Dominique asks him what it tastes like, and without hesitation he responds, “Like bubble gum!” And they all laugh again. A few years ago, Dominique and her children were in a very different Dominique and her two children pose outside Madonna House, Catholic Charities family situation. Dominique was living at shelter. Dominique and her family became homeless about a year ago, after she lost three her grandmother’s house and taking of her family members to cancer. care of her as she battled cancer. At the same time, Dominque’s uncle and employment and set goals for her she said. “I had to build myself up.” cousin were also battling cancer. All future. Today, Dominique has a steady three of them died within two years. “When I first got hereI was nervous,” job and dreams of finishing college, “It was to the point where I could no Dominque said. “But this didn’t look securing permanent housing, and longer support us, and it was taking a like a homeless shelter, and it didn’t one day, opening a business that toll on me,” Dominique said. “I made a feel like a homeless shelter. I found out gives back to other families facing decision to get some help.” it’s not. It’s like a family here.” homelessness. Dominique went to the City Family The employment and financial “For something that could be Services and Support Center at 10 services at Madonna House were what so horrible and embarrassing, I’ve S. Kedzie, where they referred her Dominique needed to get back on her been able to turn it into a learning to Catholic Charities family shelter, feet, but what helped her the most was experience,” she said. “A lot of people Madonna House. The next day, she the counseling she received to deal look at us like we’ve done drugs or and her family moved in. Since then, with the loss of her family members. we aren’t capable of living in the real Dominique has been working with “It took me two months to cry out world. We are people just as well as a case manager and has secured everything that had happened to me,” everybody else.”

41 families and 149 individuals served each year at Madonna House

12 SPIRIT autumn 2016 programsheader senior services Colbert Program Returns Seniors to Independent Living

Last year, Lloyd was living in a nursing facility at age 62. He once needed the full-time care, but had since recovered and was ready to live on his own. He was in a shared room with a stranger, with a shared bathroom and shower. He couldn’t come and go as he pleased. Worst of all, it was too far away for his family to visit. “It was restrictive,” he said. “I never had any privacy and I rarely got to see my family.” Thanks to Catholic Charities Colbert Program, Lloyd’s situation A Colbert program participant celebrates his new home. was re-evaluated, and in November 2015, he moved into his own apartment. Catholic Charities Senior “These are people who shouldn’t be and opportunities for activities and Services and Housing Services in institutions anymore,” said Meisha outings with other seniors. collaborated to implement the Lyons, Department Director of South “I had a client tell me, ‘I do more Colbert Program, which helps Suburban Senior Services. “We give now in my community now than I seniors transition out of nursing them a fresh start to regain a sense ever have before,’” Lyons said. “This homes if they are able and willing to of self, and bring them back into the transition marks the beginning of the live in the community. community.” next chapter of their lives.” “I was nervous at first, but then I The cost for these seniors to stay The housing placement is followed was just excited,” Lloyd said. “They in an institution, Lyons said, far up with one year of case management. took care of everything and got me outweighs the cost of them living on The great emotional benefit to the what I needed.” their own. In fact, the value per year is program is that they get to return The state program was developed in tripled. to society and contribute to their response to the Colbert Decree, which The seniors can choose between communities again. For Lloyd, that said that people who can live in the living in their own apartments or was huge. community need the option to do so. supportive living, which is still “It’s nice out here, it’s quiet and For the past year, Catholic Charities has their own place but equipped with peaceful, and my family comes to been offering that option through its safety features in the bathroom and visit me,” Lloyd said. “It feels just like Chicago and suburban Harvey sites. kitchen, call lights for emergencies, home.”

3x 94% the cost savings for independent of seniors age 65+ pay for care versus institutional care health care out of pocket

SPIRIT autumn 2016 13 Charities Golf Classic City SW Story | Rev. Gary Graf (far right) with Golf Invitational | Msgr. Boland, Mike John Brinckerhoff and Matt Davis volunteers and staff from the SW City Region Smith, Emile Johnson

The City Southwest Story: Club in Wilmette. The event was Golf Invitational an even greater success than last On July 27, Catholic Charities hosted Building Our Community year, with 253 attendees, and its 19th Annual Golf Invitational at the The newly created City Southwest raised $18,000 to help struggling beautiful Cog Hill Golf & Country Club Region held its first event, The families in the north suburbs. The in Lemont. Emceed by NBC’s Andy City Southwest Story: Building guests enjoyed shopping at the Avalos, the all-day outing featured Our Community on June 8, at St. boutiques, dining, and making a Texas Scramble-style tournament, Ignatius College Prep in Chicago. new connections, all while learning celebrity contest holes, breakfast, The event was attended by 110 about the services that Catholic lunch, and dinner; silent and live supporters who enjoyed tasty hors Charities provides and the many auctions, raffles, and more. Back d’oeuvres, beverages, a silent volunteer opportunities that are by popular demand, our exclusive auction, and lively music performed available. women’s tournament featured many by The Chicago Mariachi Project. activities and a fun day on the course. A highlight of the evening was the Charities Golf Classic This year’s outing attracted more presentation of the Heart of Charity On July 25, Lake County than 330 participants, golfers, and Award to Rev. Gary Graf. Major Services hosted more than 200 enthusiasts for a day of fun on the sponsors included Saint Anthony golfers at the 22nd Annual greens for a great cause, and raised Hospital, Claretian Missionaries Charities Golf Classic at $275,000. Hosted by event Co-Chairs and Goldberg Weisman Cairo. Knollwood Club in Lake Forest Emile Johnson and Mike Smith, this More than $12,000 was raised in and Shoreacres in Lake Bluff. annual event benefits Catholic Charities support of the Catholic Charities The event featured a BBQ lunch, of the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Family programs in the region. dinner, live auction, and Services Programs, which will directly a special art performance from support thousands of families this Diamonds Are Forever Art Beat Live. Hosted by event year who are in urgent need of food, North Regional Services hosted Chair Matt Davis, this annual clothing, and rental and housing the 2nd Annual Diamonds Are event raised $231,000 to benefit assistance for their families. Bob Berti Forever Boutique & Luncheon, on Catholic Charities programs in was presented with the Michael R. June 16, at Westmoreland Country Lake County. Sheahan Founders Award.

All Event Dave Gardner Director of Regional & Program Special Events Ticket (312) 655-7907 Information [email protected]

14 SPIRIT autumn 2016

events

Holy Family Villa Golf Invitational | Tim, Bev, Patrick J. Ryan Golf Outing | The Ryan Family LouAnn, and Michael McKernin upcoming event Spirit of Saint William E. Joyce for the dinner program. More than Nicholas Ball Golf Invitational $61,000 was raised to benefit Holy Family Villa’s current capital needs to On August 1, the 15th Annual William Benefiting the Children meet the increasing needs of seniors E. Joyce Golf Invitational was held at served by Catholic Charities in the community. Crystal Tree Golf and Country Club in Friday • December 2 Orland Park. The challenging course Patrick J. Ryan Come kick off the Christmas put 109 golfers to the test for 18 holes Golf Outing season on Friday, December of great golf. An additional 41 guests On August 18, Catholic Charities 2, at the 27th Annual Spirit of joined in for a fantastic buffet dinner, hosted its 6th Annual Patrick J. Ryan Saint Nicholas Ball to benefit and some interesting silent auction Golf Outing at St. Andrew’s Golf the children served by Catholic and prize raffle items. The event was & Country Club located in West Charities of the Archdiocese Co-Chaired by Jim Sexton and Jack Chicago. Emceed by host Monica of Chicago. Held at the Hilton Miller. More than $70,500 was raised Pedersen, the all-day event featured a Chicago, more than 1,300 guests in support of the Loving Outreach to scramble-style tournament, celebrity will attend this black tie event Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) Program. contest holes, breakfast, lunch and featuring entertainment by the Ken Holy Family Villa dinner, silent auction, and more. Arlen Orchestra. Most Reverend This year’s outing attracted more Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Golf Invitational than 300 golfers and guests and Chicago, Monsignor Michael M. On August 10, Holy Family Villa raised nearly $100,000. Hosted Boland, President of Catholic held its 7th Annual Monsignor by the Jim and Marie Ryan family, Charities, along with Chaircouple John Kuzinskas Golf Invitational at this annual event benefits Catholic Richard and Mary Beth Murphy, Gleneagles Country Club in Lemont. Charities Loving Outreach to and Vice Chaircouple Michael The sunny day welcomed more than Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) and Claire O’Grady, will welcome 150 golfers for breakfast, 18 holes Program for Children and Youth, guests at a reception, which kicks of golf featuring fun contest holes, which will directly support families off at 6:30 p.m. Dinner and dancing grilled lunch, cocktails, and dinner. who have lost a loved one to suicide follow at 8 p.m., and late night Matthew and Ramona Kurland were by providing free counseling and sweet treats will be served. For the event Chaircouple and emcees grief services. information on sponsorships or to purchase tickets, please contact Jodi Hill, Special Events Manager, at (312) 948-6797 or $798,048 [email protected]. PHOTO raised at summer fundraisers Pictured is 2016 Chaircouple Mary Beth to support programs and services and Richard Murphy.

SPIRIT autumn 2016 15 foundations & corporate partners

Funding Partners Support Vital Programs

Illinois Immigration Funder Collaborative and the Chicago Community Trust The Illinois Immigration Funder Collaborative (IFC) through the Chicago Community Trust continued their support of Catholic Charities Immigration and Naturalization Services Program. This support is important in our efforts to help youth and young adults eligible for relief under Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). Opus Foundation The Opus Foundation awarded Catholic Charities Guests receive a hot meal at our evening supper program. a grant to launch a new Work Ready program, which will train out-of-school young adults in the Austin neighborhood for careers in hospitality, Community Memorial Foundation metalworking, and warehousing. The program will The Community Memorial Foundation continued bring critical opportunities for growth to the youth their support of Catholic Charities St. Blase Service in this West Side neighborhood, many of whom Center in Summit. The award will be used to help are involved in Catholic Charities Peace Corner support three basic needs programs offered at Youth Center. the center: our weekly evening supper program for the hungry and/or homeless; our emergency assistance food pantry; and our Senior, Food, and Nutrition Program (SFNP).

The Lake County Community Foundation The Lake County Community Foundation recently supported Catholic Charities Lake County Veterans Employment Program with a generous grant award. This new partnership between Catholic Charities and The Lake County Community Foundation will be instrumental in helping the program Youth sign in at the Peace Corner Youth Center in Austin. find unsubsidized, meaningful employment opportunities for veterans this year. Michael Reese Health Trust Patrick and Anna M. Cudahy Fund The Trustees of the Michael Reese Health awarded The Patrick and Anna M. Cudahy Fund graciously a generous grant to support the work of our provided funding for our LOSS Program for Community Family Service Center. Their gift will Children and Youth. The program provides help us provide two bilingual therapists to provide support for children and youth who are grieving trauma-informed mental and behavioral health the death of a loved one by suicide and is the only services to impoverished Spanish- and English- suicide-specific treatment program in Illinois for speaking children and families in underserved children ages 3-19. community schools in Chicago.

16 SPIRIT autumn 2016

board relations

Monsignor Boland with Charles Walgreen and Board Chair Tim Rivelli with Anthony Cascino Peter and Marcia Masloski. and Catholic Charities CFO Elida Hernandez. junior board Boat Cruise Sets Board of Advisor Members shared how impressed they were with the program and how Record Attendance grateful they were to serve. Reappointment The 14th Annual Catholic Charities Reception Junior Board Boat Cruise was held August 5, and attended Catholic Charities is grateful for its 99th Annual Meeting by a record 130 guests. Guests dedicated members of the Board basked in the Chicago skyline of Advisors who share their time, of the Board of sunset while enjoying hors talent, and treasure in support of d’oeuvres and drinks. More than the agency’s mission. Members are Advisors $4,800 was raised for Catholic appointed to serve for a period of The 99th Annual Meeting of the Charities Emergency Assistance three years, with an opportunity to be Board of Advisors will take place Department, which is usually reappointed for additional terms. on October 27, 2016, at the Hilton the first point of contact for the On August 30, nearly 50 guests Chicago. The meeting begins agency’s 150 programs. gathered in the Catholic Charities with a reception at 11 a.m. and a “It was an incredible night with Board Room to welcome and lunch meeting follows at noon. a record turnout and everybody celebrate the 2016 Reappointees. Most Reverend Blase J. Cupich, had a great time. Funds raised are Monsignor Boland, Tim Rivelli Archbishop of Chicago, will provide vital to ensuring we are able to (Board Chair) and Brian Masterson remarks that afternoon. He will meet the needs of those who turn (Board Relations Committee also appoint 36 new members to to us.” said Carlos Rinconeno, Chair) shared remarks, thanking the Catholic Charities Board of Director of the Junior Board. the reappointees present for their Advisors. At this meeting, Catholic “The boat cruise is the Junior continued commitment to the Charities will honor the following Board’s second largest fundraiser Catholic Charities mission. board members, individuals, and of the year, and one that the board “Our mission is all about the organizations who have contributed looks forward to as soon as the corporal and spiritual works of to the Catholic Charities mission temperature starts to rise in the mercy,” said Rivelli. “We need the in extraordinary ways: Martha spring,” said Kristina Mulhall, strength of Christ and help of the FitzGerald and Amy Mazzolin Board Chair. staff at Catholic Charities to have the (Dennis F. Kelly Award); Gerard and The next Junior Board event is courage to cross the boundaries we Heide Kenny (Compassion in Action its Charities Royale Casino Night need to, so that we can help those Award); Hilton Chicago and Joseph from 7:30-11:30 p.m. November who are most in need.” and Elizabeth Rocci (Caritas Christi 19, at the Chicago Cultural Center. Prior to the reception that evening, Urget Nos Award); Sisters of the For more information, visit a number of the Reappointees Good Shepherd (St. Thomas More catholiccharities.net/casinonight. participated in serving the Tuesday Award); Mary Ellen Kastenholz Night Supper, a Catholic Charities (Volunteer of the Year); Rev. Charles PHOTO program providing a hot meal to more T. Rubey (Francis Cardinal George, Attendees enjoy the annual Junior than 120 guests experiencing hunger. O.M.I. Award). Board Boat Cruise.

SPIRIT autumn 2016 17 the last word

‘My daughter was murdered… my family had no safe place to go’

Cynthia • CATHOLIC CHARITIES New Hope Apartments Client Catholic Charities New Hope Apartments program provides scattered site apartments to homeless families with children.

My family suffered a traumatic Thanksgiving and Mother’s Day loss. My daughter was through the program. My kids murdered about a year-and-a- received two new bikes from half ago. Needless to say I was Catholic Charities after theirs were not in a healthy environment stolen. I had some medical issues and my children and I had no earlier this year and just to know place to turn. I called 311 and I was able to gain support when I Catholic Charities came and had to go to the doctor – Catholic picked me and my four other Charities was there for me. It’s children up, and brought us to a been the most positive impact shelter on the city’s west side. I’ve ever experienced. I would After I found a job, I called 311 hope that one day that I could again to tell them I had more tell others who think there are no income and they said they would services out there that there is Cynthia get Catholic Charities to help us a community out there that can move out of the shelter and into make a huge difference in your the New Hope Apartments. That I’m 42 and I’ve had six kids, and life, and it’s Catholic Charities. was when I met my case worker it’s the first time in my whole life The trial for my daughter’s Vivian, and it was great talking I’ve had to receive assistance murder is coming in the next to her on the phone. I told her from anyone. I didn’t know what month, and because of Catholic I had an action plan for going it would be like but to know that Charities, I know I won’t have back to school and that I wanted I’m able to save money while I to worry about being a single to be back in Evanston, which is work, and to have the support parent and having to go to this. I the community my children were that I need for my children, it’s appreciate that so very much. To most familiar with. Especially after just a blessing. know that someone really cares, such a traumatic event in their Not only that but the that we aren’t just a number, lives, I wanted them to be in a relationship I’ve had with Vivian we aren’t just an application — place where they had people they has been so tremendous. She we are a family. It’s been a big knew and felt safe, and we could knows my children so well and blessing for us and I hope to one just grieve our loss in peace. has gone above and beyond day to return my appreciation. I met with Vivian and put a the scope of work of any other They did so much more than plan together, and she helped us agency I’ve ever seen. She’s very helping us put a roof over our move into our new apartment. attentive to all our needs. We’ve heads; they helped us find a It’s just a blessing for my family. been able to celebrate Christmas, home again.

18 SPIRIT autumn 2016 Neighbors in Need No one should ever go hungry, or lack a safe place to live.

At Catholic Charities, we open our doors to care for anyone in need. Every 30 seconds, someone counts on Catholic Charities for help. It’s a challenge to meet the needs of so many with limited resources. Will you help feed, shelter and comfort people who want to become self-sufficient and live with dignity?

DONATE TODAY Ways PHONE (312) 655-7012 ONLINE www.catholiccharities.net/donate BY MAIL Send your donation to our lockbox: to Give Catholic Charities 75 Remittance Dr, Ste 1623 Chicago, IL 60675-1623 Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago 721 North LaSalle Street Chicago, Illinois 60654

upcoming events

AYUDANDO NUESTRAS Charities Royale FAMILIAS/HELPING Casino Night OUR FAMILIES Saturday, November 19 Wednesday, October 12 Chicago Cultural Center The Casino Club (312) 655-7932 Chicago (312) 655-8492 dec SPIRIT OF SAINt 2016 nov NICHOLAS BALL feb WYNSTONE HOLIDAY Friday, December 2 PATRICK J. RYAN TEA & BOUTIQUE Hilton Chicago MAIN EVENT sept Thursday, November 3 (312) 948-6797 Friday, February 3 Wynstone Country Club Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace HARVEST OF HOPE North Barrington (312) 655-7290 Friday, September 30 (847) 782-4115 Michigan Shores Club CHICAGO AUTO SHOW’S FIRST Wilmette HOUSE OF THE GOOD LOOK FOR CHARITY (847) 376-2121 SHEPHERD WOMEN’S BOARD 2017 Friday, February 10 109th ANNUAL EVENT McCormick Place, Chicago Sunday, November 6 (312) 948-6797 Four Seasons Hotel jan oct Chicago COMPASSION IN ACTION DINNER FIESTAS de OCTUBRE (312) 655-7348 d’VINE AFFAIR Saturday, February 18 Saturday, October 8 Sunday, January 29 “KICK OFF” ART OF CARING Glenwoodie Golf Club, Glenwood Our Lady of the Wood Parish Union League Club of Chicago Saturday, November 12 (312) 655-7907 (708) 333-8379 Orland Park Exmoor Country Club (708) 430-0428 Highland Park NITE AT THE NET (847) 782-4115 Saturday, February 25 Hinsdale Racquet Club, Hinsdale (312) 655-7290 www.catholiccharities.net/events