winter 2016 spirit vol 17 • no 1 Encountering

Feed the the Hungry Homeless Minister Clothe the to the Sick Naked Counsel the Grieving MERCY ROUNDTABLE PARISH PROFILE LAST WORD Outposts of Mercy St. Paul of the Cross Monsignor Boland 6 4 18 SPIRIT MAGAZINE winter 2016 vol 17, no 1 contents winter 2016

editor Sheila Black Haennicke writers Communications Department Development Department Program Service Areas photos Catholic Charities Communications and Program Archives brand management Jennifer Sirota art design Kathleen Gabriel

editorial board Rev. Monsignor Michael M. Boland president Kathy Donahue senior vice president, program development & evaluation John Ryan chief of staff Judith Silekis director of development monsignor boland parish profile Kristine Kappel 2 4 director of communications Encountering Mercy St. Paul of the Cross –Park Ridge at Catholic Charities 6 roundtable Outposts of Mercy

9 program news

spirit magazine 14 events © Catholic Charities 2016 the last word Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago . 18 The “Catholic Charities Difference” 721 North LaSalle Street is a Merciful Attitude Chicago, Illinois 60654 Spirit Magazine is published by Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago for its friends, clients and benefactors. Spirit Magazine Editors and Staff “As we enter a Holy Year, the Extraordinary Phone (312) 655-7010 [email protected] Jubilee of Mercy...Catholic Charities Postage paid in Chicago, IL 60654 Postmaster: Send change of address to: stands ready to provide person to person Spirit Magazine 721 N. LaSalle Street encounters of mercy...” Chicago, Illinois 60654 Monsignor Boland

www.catholiccharities.net/spirit monsignorsection headerboland

Encountering Mercy at Catholic Charities

Rev. Monsignor Michael M. Boland PRESIDENT OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES

As we enter the winter season, when darkness falls early and lasts longer, our Catholic Charities sites shine even more brightly as outposts of care and compassion in our city and suburbs. One very concrete example of this is seen at our headquarters on LaSalle Street, which functions as both as a hub for program administration and an emergency service center. “Works” implies action and “Mercy” is the loving attitude that makes such action something that Works that meet the needs of the physical body such transforms both giver as food, shelter, clothing, as well as the Spiritual Works which address emotions, understanding and and recipient. forgiveness is just the beginning. “Works” implies action, and “Mercy” is the loving attitude that makes such action something that transforms both giver A recent of furnishings from Hilton and recipient. I am constantly impressed with the hotels has benefitted a number of our sites. At 721 scores of volunteers, especially school children and N. LaSalle our reception area now has cozy couches youth, who seek out opportunities to get their hands and table lamps that glow throughout the short days dirty, as described by the Pope, with works of . and long evenings, welcoming clients into a haven You will read about some of these groups on page of comfort and safety as they wait to visit our food 8. It heartens me to know that behind every child pantry and clothing room, meet with counselors, or or youth who travels to one of our sites to pack food enjoy a hot supper donated by local restaurants and or serve supper are parents who are passing on served by dedicated volunteers. Christian values of service. During his visit to the U.S., Pope Francis referred Our outposts of mercy strengthen not only our to Catholic Charities programs as “field hospitals;” clients but those who help them. That is the true not in a medical sense, but as places where people’s of service; it connects us to something bigger needs are met with immediacy and mercy. As we and more enduring than just our own lives. Service enter a Holy Year, the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy joins us together, for we are all brothers and sisters declared by the Pope, Catholic Charities stands ready in “arms” — not the type designed to hurt — but the to provide person to person encounters of mercy in human ones that we reach out to comfort another a wide variety of settings and with a wide variety of person in their time of need. “recruits” to our cause. This issue of Spirit magazine Thank you for all you do as a supporter of Catholic will give you glimpses of the hands-on work our staff Charities. We are in the midst of our Year End and volunteers do every day. I hope they will inspire Appeal, and I hope you will give whatever you can, you to reach out and get involved as well. whether it be your time, talent or treasure, so we can Many of us remember learning about the “Works continue our work on the frontlines of poverty. God of Mercy” as children. Reciting the list of Corporal Bless you and your families in the coming year!

SPIRIT winter 2016 3 events

Parish Profile St. Paul of the Cross PARK RIDGE All are welcome on this journey Aware that all we have is gift and grace from our Heavenly Father, we strive to give of our time, talent and treasure to build His kingdom on earth. We live this mission…to serve our brothers and sisters in peace, justice and dignity. All are welcome on this journey.

Taking the Works of Mercy to Heart Like its namesake who founded the Passionist order of contemplative monks in 18th century Italy, St. Paul of the Cross Parish nurtures its connection to God through intense and focused activity. While St. Paul devoted his of Jesus on everyone who asks for help, and to respond life to prayer and spiritual direction, the parishioners at with kindness and compassion,” Adrienne explains. St. Paul of the Cross immerse themselves in an active existence of education and charitable works. The parish Helping Catholic Charities North Region numbers more than 4,800 families, with 600 children Not surprisingly, Adrienne is a close associate of in the parish school and 1,200 students in its religious Catholic Charities North Region office and its director, education program. Karen Daniels. When a parish has a director of Social Service Ministry, “St. Paul of the Cross is one of the parishes that you know it is serious about making charity part of the when there is a need, they always can be counted on to fabric of parish life. Adrienne Timm has directed the help; whether it is helping support the Breast Cancer Social Service Ministry at St. Paul of the Cross for the Awareness event each year at our Des Plaines site, or past 22 years. Today the ministry has many components, including a parish food pantry, fresh produce “ Catholic Social Teaching from the parish garden, general assistance (for emergency needs such as medication, utilities, rent, etc.), holiday food tells us we must take the boxes and Christmas giving, information and referral to local agencies, and Lenten almsgiving for local nonprofit Works of Mercy seriously...” ministries and organizations. The parish’s support of Catholic Charities supper program resulted in the creation some painting or gardening,” Karen says. “Because of of “Sunday Night Suppers” which were held at St. Paul their expertise in creating a parish garden, they assisted of the Cross for five years and recently moved to a local us in setting up a similar one at our Des Plaines office. Lutheran Church. The suppers are run by a coalition of Our food pantry and clothing room benefit regularly from volunteers from civic and faith groups in Park Ridge. the parish’s generous food and clothing drives. Parish “St. Paul of the Cross has always been generous to those volunteers have served at our twice-weekly suppers, in need. Catholic Social teaching tells us we must take the and have donated food for them. St. Paul of the Cross Works of Mercy seriously and go out of our way to serve is a consistent financial supporter of our New Hope the least among us. We challenge ourselves to see the face Apartments program, which pays rent for homeless

4 SPIRIT winter 2016 events sectionparish header profile

FATHER Britto St. Paul of the Cross Fr. Britto M. Berchmans arrived at St. Paul of the PARK RIDGE Cross in 2009 with nearly 30 years experience as a priest. A native of India, Fr. Britto witnessed first- hand the effects of deep poverty on families, but All are welcome on this journey also the effects of deep faith, such as the faith his parents demonstrated as committed Catholics in a country with many Hindus and Muslims. One of seven children, Fr. Britto became a Salesian priest and joined the Archdiocese of Chicago in 2003 after spending time in the Midwest studying journalism and mass media. Fr. Britto’s first assignment at St. Anne’s Parish in Barrington, where he served as associate pastor, was a good introduction to social justice. St. Anne’s is known for its progressive human service activities, especially in ministering to the homeless. Fr. Britto was pastor at St. Nicholas Parish in Evanston before his appointment to St. Paul of the Cross. He has also served the Church as dean of philosophical studies, editor of a Catholic family magazine, campus minister, professor of mass communications, retreat families moving to self-sufficiency. Parishioners preacher and spiritual director. serve on our board and support our fundraisers.” Co-host of a monthly Relevant Radio show, “Built All of Catholic Charities regional offices have on the Rock,” which focuses on the sacrament of advisory boards (RABs). John Burke, a St. Paul of the marriage, Fr. Britto’s ministerial priorities include Cross parishioner, is chair of Catholic Charities North strengthening Christian marriage and family life, Regional Advisory Board. John has encouraged the educating children and youth, and charity. RAB members to get more involved in our agency’s “Charity is the heart and soul of the outreach of works of mercy in the North Region. John is also a the parish. Without it, we will be totally self-absorbed member of St. Paul of the Cross Men’s Club, which and will not be faithful to the call of Jesus. As the recently donated and spread dirt in Catholic Charities pastor, coming to the aid of the poor is not a choice; flower beds, and painted the agency’s supper room in it is a duty. I have served in India, a very poor part of the basement of its Des Plaines office. the world. I have seen firsthand how the Lord put us John became involved about 10 years ago with on this earth to be his hands and feet to come to the Catholic Charities Junior Board. He joined the aid of the poor,” Fr. Britto says. North RAB early on, and later the agency-wide Not surprisingly, his favorite Scripture passage Board of Advisors. “I was looking for a way to give addresses those in need. It is Matthew 25: 31-45: back,” John says. The father of four remembers “‘Whatever we do for our brothers and sisters we taking his young sons to a Catholic Charities do for the Lord,’” he says. “I often remember the supper when they were Cub Scouts and watching words of Mother Theresa who said, ‘Jesus comes their reactions. “The wanted to do it again,” he to us in distressing disguises.’ I am reminded of explains. “They were so moved to see families that this every day as I see people come to the door of were homeless and hungry.” St. Paul of the Cross seeking help, comfort and support. I am so glad that we have a parish where Jesus is welcomed, no matter how distressing their PHOTOS: (L to R) fresh produce for the food pantry; circumstances may be.” procession for Confirmation service; servers at the parish’s annual Italian Festa

SPIRIT winter 2016 5 Outposts of Mercy in Troubled Communities

Pope Francis is frequently seen interacting with people on society’s margins — the KATHY DONAHUE homeless, the incarcerated, the disabled. Senior Vice President He has become a world-wide symbol for Program Development of merciful love through his words and and Evaluation his gestures. In the United States, the Pope sought out Catholic Charities sites where he could see, listen and touch the neediest members of our affluent country. It is affirming to watch the ANGELA BELL leader of our Church stand in solidarity Director, St. Mary of Celle with us, laborers in a “vineyard” that Family Strengthening Center is often choked with poverty, violence, and discrimination. He understands and appreciates that the work we do is very hard, but also very rewarding. In this issue’s Roundtable we hear from staff at three different Catholic Charities SHARON TILMON “outposts,” each of which provide a Director, Emergency frontline perspective on the Works of Assistance Department Mercy that fulfill our mission: • 721 N. LaSalle Street in Chicago • St. Sabina Emergency Services Center in Auburn Gresham/Englewood • St. Mary of Celle Family Strengthening Center in Berwyn

6 SPIRIT winter 2016 roundtable

What are some of the ways your site provides violence. It was just her and the kids; she had nothing merciful service through person to person else with her. Catholic Charities Mobile Outreach encounters in the community? program transported her to emergency shelter so she and the children would have a safe place to regroup. We were able to give her clothing and other emergency KATHY supplies. Our case managers helped the mom get into At our headquarters located at 721 N. LaSalle Street our New Hope Apartments program, which provides we have evening suppers Monday through Friday. The stable housing for up to two years. In New Hope, the suppers began because of local restaurants who were mom received employment assistance, and was helped concerned about the homeless eating leftovers out of to set up a budget and savings plan. Nine months after the garbage at their loading docks. Our suppers are a coming to Catholic Charities in a state of emergency, frontline encounter with the poor that shows us all the this family is now progressing toward a much more face of Christ and gives us the chance to be a “Good hopeful future Samaritan.” Many of the guests sleep in the street, have nowhere to bathe, sleep or prepare a meal. Guests use the supper as a place of respite, to clean up, find What is the “Catholic Charities Difference” that fellowship and enjoy a hot, delicious meal. Volunteers distinguishes your site from others in the area? shake guests’ hands, learn their names, and get to know them over time. KATHY One of our biggest characteristics is how we welcome ANGELA everyone, regardless of faith, and that includes our Many who enter our doors are new immigrants or partners in serving our clients. Our supper sponsors are residents seeking help. We offer a welcoming, safe place an ecumenical group, and include Fourth Presbyterian for families to bring their children, to learn new skills to Church, Holy Name Cathedral, and the Chicago Help strengthen their family’s connection to the community. Initiative, a non-religious agency. Our suppers embody We welcome everyone and all our programs are free. the universality of the Catholic Church, which welcomes When someone enters our doors they are greeted by all persons of good will to the table. We work in a staff person, volunteer or senior aide and given our harmony with anyone interested in the common good. monthly calendar of programming. If they are in need of English classes, basic computer skills, job search or ANGELA employment assistance we will enroll them in one of our Many of our participants return to us as volunteers. classes. If they are looking for socialization activities for That says something to me about the difference we are themselves and or their families they may participate in making in people’s lives. Most of the families we serve our art programs, fitness and nutrition classes, family are Latino, and many have recently immigrated to the events and celebrations. We also offer referrals for other United States. They come to Catholic Charities because Catholic Charities services such as food, clothing, child they feel welcomed and safe as they acclimate to a care, counseling, housing and legal assistance. St. Mary new country. They find comfort in meeting people like of Celle Parish refers families that call or walk in to the themselves in our classes and they develop friendships rectory for basic services to us and we connect families with other participants. Catholic Charities services and that are looking for parish information to them. staff become are part of their extended family.

SHARON SHARON Located in a community plagued with gang violence, Our size and our welcoming attitude distinguishes Catholic Charities St. Sabina Emergency Services is a Catholic Charities from other providers in the Auburn frontline basic human needs center that handles crisis Gresham/Englewood community. As the story I shared on a daily basis. Our first act is to welcome everyone illustrates, we are able to take a family in need from who walks through our door. We want people to feel start to finish, thanks to the spectrum of supports comfortable so they can open up to us about the realities we have. Another difference is that our staff in the they face, so we can do an accurate assessment of their community are experienced and well-trained; expert needs and start them on a path toward self-sufficiency. in assessing and assisting the poor. We keep staff A recent case illustrates this for me. A young mother for a long time, so they are knowledgeable about the came to us with three children, fleeing domestic community and they are trusted by our clients.

SPIRIT winter 2016 7 volunteer support Youth in Action with Works of Mercy

“True charity requires courage; let us overcome the fear of getting our hands dirty so as to help those in need.” Pope Francis

At this time of year, many people come downtown for the lights, shopping, and shows. Catholic Charities has been blessed with groups of young people, high school, and college students, who seek us out as a place where they can encounter mercy on a personal level and learn more about our common humanity. Below are profiles of just a few schools that regularly engage in frontline charitable works. Joliet Catholic High School For the past year, a group of students from Joliet The University of Notre Dame Marching band turned out in force this autumn to volunteer at Catholic Charities. Catholic Academy have come to 721 N. LaSalle Street on Saturdays to make sure our weekday supper guests have a meal. The students prepare the food school garden; hold ongoing food drives and support themselves, and in the process have learned a lot our Celebration of Giving by sponsoring over 70 about hunger and homelessness. families. Spiritual works of Mercy include donating For example, the students originally packed art to beautify the North/Northwest regional office; lunches for the guests that included fresh apples. collecting 25 Halloween costumes for poor children, Some of the recipients handed the apples back, and tutoring refugees. because their teeth were bad. In response, the students began to experiment with the meals. One The University of Notre Dame student brought chili, which was a big hit as it was During the week of October 19, nearly 60 students easy to eat, hot and tasty. The students learned that from the University of Notre Dame visited Chicago clients also prefer a hot dog meal because they can to explore nonprofit work. Five of the students were reheat it in a microwave at local gas stations. participants in the Chicago Nonprofit Career Trek, an Joe Burke, Chairman of the Theology Department externship, and visited four nonprofit organizations at Joliet Catholic says, “When our students see the including Catholic Charities. The students met with faces of Catholic Charities clients who are either Dalia Rocotello, Director of Board Relations and their contemporaries in age or younger, their lives Mission Engagement, and Ilse Zenteno, Bilingual are changed forever. Our students truly realize how Project Manager, to learn about Catholic Charities blessed they are. Our hope is that we can have high organizational structure, its Board of Advisors, schools throughout the Chicagoland area join in the service areas, and the Office of Latino Affairs. The effort so that a meal can be provided every Saturday students brainstormed with Communications staff throughout the year.” St. Francis Academy in and attended a meeting where staff and Board Wheaton will soon join the effort. Members reviewed our agency’s Strategic Plan. Meanwhile, Annie Scully, Director of our Junior Loyola Academy Board, organized 50 volunteers from the University of Loyola Academy in Wilmette is very active, with Notre Dame Marching Band who were with us for two students performing both Corporal and Spiritual days, visiting senior residences, packing nearly 600 works of Mercy. To meet clients’ physical needs, boxes of food for seniors and families, and learning students collected 45 boxes of new toiletries, about our Emergency Assistance Department. undergarments and socks for our regional offices The students concluded their trip by writing letters and shelters to distribute. They sort clothing at our of encouragement and solidarity to homeless clients, North/Northwest Regional Office and assist with which allowed time to reflect on their experiences. weekly suppers there; donate vegetables from the

8 SPIRIT winter 2016 programs community development and outreach services “TIN” a Win/Win for Interpreters and Clients

Communication is at the heart of all human interaction. Whether verbal or nonverbal, effective person to person connections depend on clear messages. For this reason, one of Catholic Charities newest programs offers a much needed service to a population at risk of being left out of society’s mainstream. Translation and Interpretation Network (TIN) Chicago is Catholic Charities latest social enterprise. A social enterprise is a business whose primary purpose is to advance the common good. TIN trains bilingual persons to become interpreters and earn money for their skills. At present about 30 people are in various stages of readiness to become TIN interpreters.

Haileyesus, an Ethiopian immigrant, recently passed the English “TIN provides frontline Proficiency test and is on his way to becoming a TIN interpreter. Works of Mercy on behalf of was a challenge. He heard about TIN from another service provider and was immediately attracted vulnerable individuals. Imagine to the program because of Catholic Charities. A devout Christian, Hailey knew his values would be not being able to understand supported by the agency. Hailey applied to TIN and took a comprehensive your doctor...” English language proficiency exam. He speaks several African languages, including Aramic, “It is community-based interpretation, so TIN Oromo and Gamo. “He was very excited about contractors are working in grassroots settings; such passing the test and has signed up for more as schools, storefront clinics, lawyers offices and the training,” says Johnita. “We offer our interpreters like,” explains Johnita Lindsey, Operations Specialist competitive pay and flexible schedules. TIN provides with TIN Chicago. “TIN provides frontline Works of the ‘limited English proficient’ (LEP) population Mercy on behalf of vulnerable individuals. Imagine living in Cook and Lake counties access to language not being able to understand your doctor explain services, and creates sustainable job opportunities your medical condition…we want people to know for refugees and immigrants. We offer translation that they can trust and depend on TIN interpreters in and interpretation services in up to 65 languages as situations where clear understanding is critical. We well as certified trainings for bilingual individuals.” train them to truly understand, not just reiterate, the TIN Chicago’s interpreters are hired as information being shared with the client.” independent contractors. The training is professional The story of Ethiopian immigrant, Haileyesus and the certifications are recognized nationwide. Kitimo Tunkuto, illustrates how TIN supports both TIN interpreters start at $18 per hour, and can make interpreters and clients. Haileyesus immigrated up to $30 per hour as they gain experience. Once to America with his wife five years ago. Though Haileyesus completes his training he will start to close 70, he wants to work to provide for his get jobs from TIN, and can work with persons in family and share his talent as an educator. Hailey need while earning money. In this way, TIN is a speaks multiple languages, and served as a senate “win” for everyone. For more information, email: member in Ethiopia, but finding work in the U.S. [email protected].

SPIRIT winter 2016 9 child, youth, and family services Intact Family Counselors Brave Violence to Bring Healing

common. But the rewards can also be great. “Let me share with you one of our most recent experiences,” explains Claudia Ramirez, Supervisor of Family Based Services. “When the client met us she immediately told us she was not happy to see us and that she was not going to pretend to feel something she was not feeling. A little over a week later, this mother thanked me as she described our worker as an ‘angel’ who came into her family’s life to help them stay together.”

Staff safety is a...concern in our Intact Family Service Program which provides in- A bulletin board created by staff at a child development center. home counseling and case management for families “The communities our workers go into are not always safe, but they still go because that is how you involved with... DCFS due to reach at-risk families and begin to create a system of support for them,” explains Martha Mann, Associate allegations of abuse Vice President in Catholic Charities Child, Youth and Family (CYFS) service area. and neglect. Staff safety is a particular concern in our Intact Family Services Program, which provides in-home Everyone in an intact family case will likely need counseling and case management for families counseling and connections to resources that referred by the Illinois Department of Children and can support them over time, such as a medical Family Services (DCFS) due to allegations of child home, stable housing, special education plans and abuse and neglect. The parents in these families are recreational programming. The more caring adults under scrutiny and often defensive, which makes the children have in their lives, the safer they will be, the counselors’ and case managers’ jobs more and their parents are not left alone to do the difficult challenging. Their goal is to build trust and create a job of raising children with scarce resources. system of support for the parents, and the children, Claudia has worked in child welfare for decades. which will reduce stress on the family system and When asked what keeps her enthusiastic about her allow all members to learn healthier ways to interact. job, she says: “I continue to do what I do because I Intact Family Services clients are faced with a continue to see the unfairness of the many broken daunting range of interrelated issues, including systems that impact our families. I hope to be the poverty, domestic violence, substance abuse, voice of those who have no voice, especially those mental illness, unemployment, and homelessness. who can’t speak the English language. At the end, Then there is the strain of living in an area where each one of the beautiful smiles of the children we community violence, such as shootings, may be work with is more than enough to keep me going.”

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family and parish support services HIV/AIDS Case Managers Meet Clients in Community

Just released from prison after spending most of his adult life behind bars, Ralph arrived at the Lake County Health Department for a doctor’s appointment. There he met his Catholic Charities case manager, Carla Gutierrez, who in Ralph’s words, became “the mother I never had.” Carla listened to Ralph, who is positive for HIV, and discussed how best to reach his goal of living as independently as possible. Carla is a Medical Case Manager Liaison with expertise in working with persons who have HIV/AIDS. Catholic Charities HIV/AIDS Case Management program creates plans with clients that include steps for receiving medical care, housing, employment or income from public benefits, and securing transportation. However, along with all the “to do’s” on the case management plan, Carla’s overall goal is to create a trusting relationship with Ralph. Medical Case Manager Liaison Carla Gutierrez with Ralph at Catholic “Our program staff is found Charities food pantry for persons with HIV/AIDS living in Lake County. wherever our clients are; in year, Catholic Charities helped more than 130 persons clinics, in apartments or at through our HIV/AIDS Case Management Program, which serves Lake County. The actual number of our food pantry, addressing persons with HIV/AIDS who received any service from Catholic Charities is undoubtedly higher, as we their needs so they can remain serve more than one million persons annually. Ralph and Carla worked together as he moved into a healthy and secure in their transitional housing program in Waukegan. They still homes.” meet weekly, because that is what Ralph prefers, as he continues to strengthen his independent living skills. “I am always honest…and I always follow through “She schedules my doctor’s appointments and on what I say I will do. When Ralph stops by the helps me understand what I need to do to stay healthy agency to see me or calls me on the phone, I make while living with HIV and without using drugs and time for him no matter what I’m doing, because I alcohol,” Ralph says. know how important it is for him and for our work “Ralph teaches me about what life was like for him together,” Carla explains. in the streets. He has opened my eyes to the injustices “Persons living with HIV/AIDS are members of the in some of our communities that our clients face community like everyone else,” says Laura Kuever, every day,” Carla replies. Program Director. “Our program staff is found Catholic Charities seeks to address these injustices wherever our clients are; in clinics, in apartments, through Works of Mercy, such as the caring guidance or at our food pantry, addressing their needs so they that Carla and all our staff who work in the HIV/AIDS can remain healthy and secure in their homes.” Last program, provide to their clients.

SPIRIT winter 2016 11 housing services Nursing Students Make “House Calls” to Senior Buildings

“Visiting the sick,” is one of the Corporal Works of Mercy, and Catholic Charities has put a preventative and fun spin on it. “The foot rub was a big hit!” says Evelia Zavala, a Service Coordinator at the St. Vincent de Paul Apartment Residence, which provides independent living for low-income seniors. Thanks to a partnership between Catholic Charities and Resurrection University, nursing students have been making twice-weekly visits each semester to three Catholic Charities senior buildings. The students provide a mix of health education, activities and routine checks like blood pressure and glucose testing. “The residents who participated really enjoyed it. I heard about the topics the nurses covered, and how the residents shared the information with each other,” Evelia explains. “I think this was a good learning Leonora, a senior resident at Catholic Charities St. Vincent de experience for everyone involved.” Paul independent living apartments on Chicago’s North Side, and Nastasia, a student nurse who befriended her. “I observed the nurse and participate in activities, even when provided on- students building rapport site, due to their routines and preference to stick to familiar people and places. However, the student and relationships with nurses utilized relationship-building with the seniors to encourage their participation. simple acts of kindness.” “Some residents enjoyed the company of the students and would stop by ‘just to talk,’ but within Leonora Llanes, a resident at St. Vincent de Paul their chit chat the seniors would learn, as the who is diabetic has enjoyed using the student nurse students were good at staying on topic,” says Evelia. program. “They know a lot about diabetes,” she The Resurrection University students are says. Nastasia La Luz is a nurse who worked with supervised by a Registered Nurse who is on the Leonora. “I gave her a foot massage as part of our faculty. Currently a pilot, the program will expand to unit on diabetic foot care,” Nastasia adds. Leonora include Catholic Charities adult day services sites in learned from Nastasia that she should not cut her the coming year. own toenails, due to the risk of infection which can “I believe both the residents and the students become serious for diabetics. benefit greatly from this partnership, says Laraine “The entire experience was positive solely because Bodner, Service Coordinator Supervisor for the the Nurse Instructor was very pleasant, receptive, senior apartment buildings. “The students receive and kind. I observed the nurse and students client contact and practice to obtain their clinical building rapport and relationships with simple hours. It is also a convenience for seniors.” acts of kindness. Some visits they bought snacks Kate Baretto is Property Manager at St. Vincent for residents to enjoy while meeting with nursing de Paul. “The nursing students provide educational team,” says Kahlea Reeves, Service Coordinator at material on various topics such as exercise. It helps Porta Coeli Residence on Chicago’s far South Side. to increase our residents’ awareness, and it is a nice It can be hard to get independent seniors to social interaction for them,” Kate says.

12 SPIRIT winter 2016 programs senior services Protecting Seniors in their Communities

It may be hard to imagine the situations described below, but they are just two of the thousands that Catholic Charities Adult Protective Services (APS) handles each year across Cook and Lake counties. Because our staff are community-based, meeting clients in their homes or other locations in a neighborhood, they are able to intervene quickly, doing frontline works of mercy. We often talk about the “Catholic Charities Difference,” and these two stories show how our workers exceed expectations on a regular basis, because they truly believe that everyone deserves compassion. “I am continually amazed and humbled at the level of care shown by our Senior Services staff. They truly demonstrate what ‘compassion in action’

really means.” An Adult Protective Services worker heading out to see a client.

An immigrant senior is left alone when her companion is hospitalized. She descends into dementia; housing for the senior the worker learns the senior’s falling behind in her rent, accusing neighbors of beloved pet was left behind at the apartment, where her disturbing her, and wandering the urban streets in her roommates are threatening to throw it out. After the pajamas, speaking erratically in her native language. senior is placed in a shelter, Catholic Charities staff, with Workers meet the senior outside her home and gently police assistance, retrieve her belongings, including the coax her into telling them about her situation, pet, which Catholic Charities staff care for at their homes discovering that she yearns to return to her homeland. until they find the senior stable housing. Six months After arranging for an evaluation and temporary after encountering the senior at the local mental health placement in a nursing home, Catholic Charities staff center, APS staff reunite the pet with her grateful owner. locate the senior’s relatives who can facilitate her safe return home to Europe. Vice President Mary Ann Bibat has worked for more than 20 years in Senior Services at Catholic A senior with a mental health condition flees the Charities. “I am continually amazed and humbled apartment where she lives with several other people; at the level of care and compassion shown by our some of whom are physically and emotionally abusive Senior Services staff. They truly demonstrate what to her. She carries everything she can with her to the ‘compassion in action’ really means. I know the mental health clinic where she receives services. An APS seniors and older adults we serve are in very good worker meets her there. While arranging safe, temporary hands,” Mary Ann says.

SPIRIT winter 2016 13 upcomingsection header events events

d’Vine Affair First Look for Charity Holy Family Villa Dinner SUNDAY • JANUARY 31 FRIDAY • FEBRUARY 12 SUNDAY • MARCH 20

The 15th Annual Now in its 25th year, This seventh annual event will take d’Vine Affair First Look for Charity place on Sunday, March 20 at Gaelic returns to The is the Chicago Auto Park in Oak Forest. Holy Family Villa is Union League Show’s preview night a fully-licensed nursing home and rehab Club of Chicago. at McCormick Place facility with around-the-clock nursing This elegant event that benefits local staff. The compassionate care provided features over 90 nonprofit organizations, including to the Villa’s treasured residents is a vintners from the West Coast, Europe Catholic Charities. The event will feature wonderful example of Catholic tradition. and around the world who will pour access to Catholic Charities private Funds raised at the event will ensure more than 250 of their premium wines. reception suite, a “first look” at the that vulnerable seniors can live with the Other popular features include a Craft premier display of vehicles on the auto grace and dignity that they deserve. The & Imported Beer Tasting Room, a show floor, live entertainment, a chance evening will feature food and cocktails, premier silent auction featuring unique to win one of two new cars: a 2016 raffles and entertainment. experiences and special wine offerings, Jeep Renegade or a 2016 Lincoln MKX, the live auction of two barrels of wine, a and so much more! Proceeds from REGIONAL EVENTS “Stock Your Cellar” raffle, gourmet hors this event benefit the Maternity and d’oeuvres and desserts. Reservations Adoption programs and the Neighbors Compassion in Action Dinner are $125 per person. Proceeds from the in Need Fund. SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 20 d’Vine Affair benefit Catholic Charities Benefiting Programs in the South Region Self-Sufficiency Programs in Cook and Glenwoodie Golf Club, Glenwood Lake Counties. NITE Contact (708) 333-8379 AT THE NET St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Patrick J. Ryan Main Event THURSDAY • MARCH 10 FRIDAY • FEBRUARY 5 Night at the Net Benefiting the West Region’s New Hope Housing Program The Patrick J. Ryan IC J. R SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 27 R YA AT N P FitzGerald’s, Berwyn Main Event was established by former Nite at the Net will be held at the Contact (708) 329-4022 Illinois Attorney Hinsdale Racquet Club in Hinsdale on M A T Helping Hands Dinner & Auction General Jim Ryan IN EVEN Saturday, February 27. Tennis beginners and his wife Marie and enthusiasts will have a chance SATURDAY • MARCH 12 and their family in memory of their son to participate in drills that meet their Benefiting Homeless Services Patrick who died of suicide in 2007. The skill level. Blackhawks Coach “Q” Joel in the Southwest Suburbs event will feature an exciting night of 8 to Quenneville, and Eric Ferguson of Silver Lake Country Club, Orland Park 10 talented, Golden Glove-style amateur 101.9 will emcee and play at the event! Contact (708) 430-0428 boxing fights, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, Nite at the Net features a fantastic and ringside seating with dinner. Proceeds silent auction and live auction; food Hearts for Hope Dinner & Auction from this event will benefit the Loving and cocktails. Proceeds benefit the SATURDAY • APRIL 16 Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) Neighbors in Need Fund which provides Program, created for children and youth the financial resources to respond to Benefiting Services who have endured the loss of a loved one those who need food, clothing, financial in the Northwest Region to suicide. assistance and other basic needs. Schaumburg Golf Club, Schaumburg Contact (847) 376-2118

ALL EVENT Maureen Stern (312) 948-6864 Director of TICKET Donor Relations [email protected] Information www.catholiccharities.net/events

14 SPIRIT winter 2016 events 2014past eventsevents

Brighter Futures Golf Outing It was a fantastic day on September 14, and the beautiful and historic Oak Park Country Club was an outstanding setting for the 15th Annual Brighter Futures Golf Outing. Congratulations and great appreciation to event co-chairs, Doug & Kathy Kurtenbach, Jeff & Karen Stelmach, and Mike & Lisa Kozak for 26TH ANNUAL their hard work in organizing this wonderful event, which was attended by 103 golfers, with an additional 85 dinner guests. The event raised $98,330 for the New Hope Housing Program in the West Region. Highlights of the dinner included the presentation of the Heart of Charity Award to Bill & Fran Darley, he Christmas season kicked off with the and the heartfelt and powerful remarks by a New Hope Housing elegant Spirit of St. Nicholas , held Program client and a spirited live auction and paddle raise. T Friday, December 4 at the Chicago Hilton PHOTO: with more than 1,250 guests in attendance. The Msgr. Boland, Fran Darley, Will Darley, Kevin Darley, Karen Darley memorable evening offered guests an opportunity to meet the Most Reverend Blase J. Cupich, Archbishop of Chicago and our President, Monsignor Michael M. Boland. The evening featured festive Christmas carols and warm remarks from Archbishop Cupich, Monsignor Boland and the 2015 chaircouple, Al and Mary Ann Moschner. Attendees danced the night away with entertainment provided by The Ken Arlen Orchestra and enjoyed cordials, cookies and harp music in our Late Night Café. For the first time, the Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball featured a theme, “Believe.” Every day because of our generous donors and friends, like those who Ayudando Nuestras Familias/ attend the event, we are helping children all across Chicago believe that they will have a better life. A Helping Our Families heartwarming video presentation featuring some Catholic Charities Latino Advisory Committee of the Board of of the children served by Catholic Charities really Advisors hosted the annual “Ayudando Nuestras Familias,” or emphasized the importance of our programs and the “Helping Our Families” event on October 15 at Perillo Chicago. care and support provided by Catholic Charities. Truly More than 170 guests attended the event which raised $37,495 demonstrating the spirit of the season, our guests in support of the Catholic Charities Casa Catalina Basic Needs made contributions of more than $224,000 to the Center in the Back of the Yards community. Sister Joellen Tumas Wish List. and the Casa Catalina staff and volunteers distribute more than Also in attendance was Most Reverend Francis J. 525,000 meals each year, as well as provide clothing, health Kane. Since 1990, the Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball screenings and referrals for other services that strengthen has raised over $15 million in net proceeds, with families. Lourdes Duarte of WGN attended and served as $1,200,000 net of that from the 2015 event alone. Emcee. Special thanks to Advisory Committee Chairperson, Clem Martin, Vice Chair, Stella Gaytan and the Planning PHOTO: Committee for creating a very fun event. Al and Mary Ann Moschner, Archbishop Cupich, PHOTO: Msgr. Boland, Mary Beth and Rich Murphy ( 2016 Msgr. Boland, Pat Perillo, Cesar Marin chaircouple)

SPIRIT winter 2016 15 & corporate partners

Thank You for Your Support!

Flood Brothers Disposal On Tuesday, December 1, a group of volunteers from Flood Brothers Disposal brought a generous donation of $2,500 for our supper program, 200 Subway gift cards for our guests, 200 sets of hats and gloves and best of all—Santa Claus! Flood Brothers is a long-term supporter of Catholic Charities and has held an annual food at their headquarters which provides food boxes for poor families. The Fred J. Brunner Foundation The Fred J. Brunner Foundation’s recent grant will be used to support our New Hope Apartments Program in the North/Northwest suburbs. Flood Brothers serve up some holiday magic! The company supports Catholic Charities in many ways. New Hope Apartments is a supportive housing program designed to end family homelessness. Mazza Foundation The Mazza Foundation graciously continued their support of our agency’s newest social enterprise – the Translation and Interpretation Network (TIN) Chicago – during its first year of operation. We are currently offering translation and interpretation services in up to 65 languages. Edmond & Alice Opler Foundation The Edmond & Alice Opler Foundation awarded Catholic Charities a grant for our Community Family Service Center. The funds will help our therapists bridge barriers to mental and Translation and Interpretation Network (TIN) trainees. The behavioral health access leading to healthier TIN program has benefitted from the generosity of the Mazza children and families Foundation. Fred B. Snite Foundation The Fred B. Snite Foundation committed to supporting our Emergency Assistance Program and the First Look for Charity event, which benefits our Maternity and Adoption Program and the Neighbors in Need Fund. VNA Foundation The VNA Foundation continued their support of Catholic Charities Community Family Service Center and this generous support is paramount in our efforts to provide bilingual therapists to impoverished Spanish and English The Fred J. Brunner Foundation is supporting our New Hope speaking children and families in underserved Apartments transitional housing for homeless families. Chicago schools.

16 SPIRIT winter 2016 board relations

2015 ANNUAL CONNECTED BY MEETING HOPE

PHOTOS (TOP) new members of the Catholic Charities Board of Advisors; (BOTTOM ROW L to R) Board Chair, Tim Rivelli and Bishop Kane with Tim O’Brien of Chicago Fire Fighters Union Local 2; Dr. Paul O’Keefe; Sister of St. Casimir, Sr. Regina Dubickas; Sr. Kathy Ryan; Mike and Susy Hoch

Forty-eight new members were appointed to the Catholic Charities, through his compassionate Board of Advisors at our 98th Annual Meeting, held work on behalf of persons with HIV/AIDS and on October 8 at the Chicago Hilton and Towers. the impoverished families who attend Catholic Board Members were the first to receive our annual Charities free community health fairs. report, “Connected by Hope,” which focuses on how • Mike and Susy Hoch, recipients of the Compassion our donors, volunteers, staff members and clients in Action Award for their lifelong devotion to are all connected by hope – it is indeed the thread helping the poor and vulnerable, from leading that weaves our lives together as we strive to fulfill food and clothing drives to founding Catholic the Church’s mission of charity in Chicago. Charities Golf Classic fundraiser. “None of our work and success would be possible Sister Cathy M. Ryan, recipient of the Bishop without our partnerships with hundreds of social • Edwin M. Conway Caritas Christi Urget Nos “The service agencies and 243 parishes to bring a Love of Chris Impels Us” Award for her 10 years of holistic approach to solving our community’s leadership at Maryville Academy. greatest needs,” Monsignor Boland told the more than 350 Board Members who gathered for the • Sisters of St. Casimir, recipients of the St. Thomas luncheon meeting. More Award for sharing Jesus’ mission of helping Other speakers included Board Chair Tim Rivelli, those in need for more than 100 years at their and Bishop Francis Kane, Vicar General and Motherhouse in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood. Auxiliary Bishop for the Archdiocese of Chicago. At • Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2 received the the meeting, Catholic Charities presented awards for Volunteer of the Year Award, for being a major exceptional service to: supporter of Catholic Charities annual Christmas • Dr. Paul O’Keefe, recipient of the Dennis F. Kelly toy drive. Award for outstanding service to the mission of

SPIRIT winter 2016 17 the last word

the Last Word… Rev. Monsignor M. Boland • President of Catholic Charities

The “Catholic Charities Difference” is a Merciful Attitude

As we end another year and look forward to the • I see it in meetings with program leadership, next, I reflect on how our mission of merciful who strive to ensure our services are the care has impacted me both professionally best and that our staff are supported in their and personally. difficult work. Last December, my beloved mother passed • I see it in the eyes of our new Board Members away after receiving years of loving attention at when they are commissioned at our Annual Holy Family Villa, Catholic Charities skilled care Meeting. facility. I visited her there often, at all hours of the • I see it in the hands of our facilities workers day and night. I witnessed the “Catholic Charities who carefully set places at the table for our Difference” in action — staff truly cared about the evening suppers or work overtime to transport residents, as well as caring for them. Christmas to waiting families. The signs are everywhere, and I never tire of watching for them. …what makes a work I am privileged to lead one of the largest of mercy different than Catholic Charities networks in the United States. I am reminded daily of the great legacy of my just going through the predecessors, who nearly 100 years ago decided that the many separate charitable programs which motions; it involves were serving orphans, the elderly, the abandoned, the disabled, and the discouraged would be an attitude of love and even more effective if brought together into a coordinated network of care. We now have a very appreciation for our administratively efficient and resilient structure that has remained a bulwark of charity in the midst shared human experience. of a harsh, violent and uncaring world. But we provide more than charitable activities. To me, that is what makes a work of mercy We act in love and that is the difference between different than just going through the motions; it mere action and an act of Mercy. The world needs involves an attitude of love and appreciation for our Mercy to fight the hopelessness and despair which shared human experience. One of the great graces we see in our world, our nation, our city and at of working for Catholic Charities is the continual times, our own lives. The world needs Catholic affirmation of our shared humanity which I see at Charities, and Catholic Charities needs you to all of our sites and in each of our programs. accomplish the merciful work Jesus calls us to do.

18 SPIRIT winter 2016 CONNECTED BY HOPE

Your gift connects those most in need to our network of wrap-around services at 164 sites throughout Cook and Lake counties. You lift them up and remind them they are not alone or forgotten. Will you help us provide food, shelter, comfort, and hope?

DONATE TODAY Ways PHONE (312) 655-7012 ONLINE www.catholiccharities.net/donate BY MAIL CATHOLIC CHARITIES to Give 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

CHICAGO AUTO SHOW’S HELPING HANDS FIRST LOOK FOR CHARITY DINNER & AUCTION Friday, February 12 Saturday, March 12 McCormick Place, Chicago Silver Lake Country Club (312) 948-6797 Orland Park (708) 430-0428 COMPASSION IN ACTION DINNER HOLY FAMILY VILLA LEGAL LIFELINES 2016 Saturday, February 20 DINNER COCKTAIL RECEPTION Glenwoodie Golf Club, Glenwood Sunday, March 20 Thursday, April 21 jan (708) 333-8379 Gaelic Park, Oak Forest Union League Club of Chicago (630) 257-2291 (312) 655-7290 D’VINE AFFAIR NITE AT THE NET Sunday, January 31 Saturday, February 27 25TH ANNIVERSARY Union League Club Hinsdale Racquet Club, apr BLOSSOMS OF HOPE of Chicago Hinsdale BRUNCH (312) 655-7907 (312) 655-7290 MEALS ON WHEELS Sunday, April 24 DINNER DANCE Drury Lane Saturday, March 2 Oakbrook Terrace mar Maravelas, Ingleside (312) 948-6797 feb (847) 782-41158 PATRICK J. RYAN ST. PATRICK’S DAY MAIN EVENT CELEBRATION HEARTS FOR HOPE Friday, February 5 Thursday, March 10 DINNER & AUCTION Drury Lane, FitzGerald’s, Berwyn Saturday, April 16 Oakbrook Terrace (708) 329-4022 Schaumburg Golf Club (312) 655-7290 Schaumburg (847) 376-2118

www.catholiccharities.net/events