WINTER 2020 VOL 21 • NO 1

Giving a TO THOSE Voice IN NEED Catholic Charities Legal Assistance (CCLA) Pages 4-8 Adriana Doger, Intern and Hilda Bahena, Director WINTER 2020 VOL 21 • NO 1

CONTENTS “We all respond to our peers. There needs COVER STORY to be trust and some sense of shared Giving a experience…So, it is TO THOSE important to hire from IN NEED the community you are Voice serving…Our clients are the best authors of their experiences and their progress.”

Laura Kuever – Associate Vice President of Community, Youth, and Family Services, commenting on Encompassing Center staff and 4 community outreach.

3 Kathleen A. Donahue-Coia AGENCY NEWS The Two Feet of Love in Action Charitable Work and Social Justice 14 Events

14 Essay 16 , Corporate, and Gail’s Journey Government Partnerships 17 Board Relations and 9 Mission Engagement Parish Profile 12 Our Lady of Perpetual Help — Glenview

SPIRIT MAGAZINE

WRITER Mindy McFadden Walch © Catholic Charities 2020 Phone (312) 655-7010 PHOTOS Catholic Charities Spirit Magazine is published by Catholic Charities [email protected] Communications of the Archdiocese of Chicago for its friends, Postage paid in Chicago, IL 60654 Department clients, and benefactors. Postmaster Send change of address to: Spirit Magazine, 721 N. LaSalle Street, DESIGN Kathy Gabriel Chicago, Illinois 60654 www.catholiccharities.net/spirit Kathleen A. Donahue-Coia ACTING ADMINISTRATOR, PRESIDENT, AND CEO OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES

The Two Feet of Love in Action Charitable Work and Social Justice

Happy New Year! where helping others advocate for themselves plays a distinctive role. t the heart of Christian teaching Catholic Charities Legal Ais the idea that we are all Assistance Program for instance, caretakers of God’s creation, and we provides assistance to low- are all responsible for one another. income individuals who would The dual imperatives of charitable otherwise not be able to afford legal works and social justice represent representation. And as of fall 2019, the “Two Feet of Love in Action,” Catholic Charities began providing according to the mental health services through the Conference of Catholic Bishops, and Encompassing Center, a mental must guide us as we continually and behavioral health service center pursue the common good. made possible through community In Catholic Charities’ role advocacy and financial support. as social service provider, we Our Parish Profile takes you to address a vast array of material Glenview where we learn about and emotional needs by feeding, the incredible work of Our Lady clothing, housing, counseling, and “We are called to be of Perpetual Help Catholic Parish. rehabilitating. Equally important to OLPH has fully embraced the idea the health and well-being of those prudent stewards of Christian stewardship and has around us is Catholic Charities’ developed more than 50 ministries role in speaking out for public of our resources that give parishioners many policies that preserve and uplift and gifts, and to opportunities to live out the Gospel human life and human dignity, in their everyday lives. informing people about their continually pursue the Catholic Charities is committed rights under the law, educating to lifting up the voices of the poor government officials about the common good, doing and vulnerable. We take seriously impact of their policy decisions and our responsibility to work for a budgets, and ensuring that all of our part each day to more just society, while meeting our brothers and sisters are being clients immediate challenges. heard and treated fairly. We serve bring the Kingdom of Charitable works and social and speak on behalf of the poor justice are the “Two Feet of Love in and vulnerable so that no one is God a little closer to Action.” May we walk together in abandoned or forgotten. one another.” delivering more of both. In this issue of Spirit Magazine, we look at how Catholic Charities operates on a broad level in Sincerely, the public policy arena, and in Relations Department, which individual cases to give a voice to coordinates our federal, state, and our clients and their needs. We local efforts to share our work, introduce you to the Government and explore two program areas

WINTER 2020 SPIRIT 3 Giving a TO THOSE Voice IN NEED

LEGAL ASSISTANCE GOVERNMENT RELATIONS MENTAL HEALTH

atholic Charities fulfills Three Ways We Give a Voice to Clients: Cits mission of n The Office of Government Relations by providing compassionate Furthers the mission of the agency by working collaboratively with stakeholders to and professional services to improve the lives of those we serve through anyone in need, but just as advocacy and program sustainability. See story on page 5 important, it is the voice for n Catholic Charities Legal Assistance (CCLA) those who have no voice – the Provides a wide range of legal services to vulnerable and those without low-income individuals who otherwise could not afford an attorney. access to power. See story on page 6

This issue looks at Catholic n Mental Health Services Charities programs and Reduces health inequities by strengthening collaboration among healthcare delivery initiatives that help us empower systems and community-based service the less fortunate in society. sectors to improve health. See story on page 8

4 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 COVER STORY

Government Relations Lift Up Voices and Share Expertise

nspired by the Great Commandment Intentional engagement with Iof Jesus (Mt 22:36-40), love of God lawmakers from service providers and love of neighbor have driven the helped convince legislators to adjust Love In Action Church’s long tradition of caring for and the eligibility period to a full twelve What You Can Do speaking out on behalf of the poor and months, restoring stability for enrolled vulnerable. Not only are we called to feed families. Lawmakers count on agencies There are two different, but the hungry, shelter the homeless, welcome like Catholic Charities to share stories complementary, ways we can the stranger, and comfort the afflicted, but of success and failure so they can walk the path of love, or caritas, also to champion for public policies that fully consider the impact of proposed according to resources from challenge social structures that contribute legislation and better identify potential the United States Conference of to suffering and injustice. solutions to critical public problems. Catholic Bishops. These are the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese They also need to hear support and “Two Feet of Love in Action,” of Chicago is honored to be a part of encouragement when they’re moving based on Pope Benedict XVI’s these efforts. We work closely with in the right direction from non-profit reflections in Deus Caritas Est Catholic Charities USA and the United board members and volunteers as (God is Love) and Caritas in States Conference of Catholic Bishops lawmakers are ever mindful of the Veritate (Charity in Truth). at the national level, and the Catholic concerns of their voting constituents. Conference of Illinois at the state level Today, a growing need for services SOCIAL JUSTICE to promote policies that enhance the coupled with a shrinking availability common good and preserve human life of financial resources create an Remove root causes & and human dignity. environment where Catholic Charities improve structures Our 100 + year history and role as the must engage more than ever. In • Expand access to affordable largest provider of professional social addition to residual damage caused housing work services in the area gives Catholic by Illinois’ two-year budget stalemate, • Work to improve the educational Charities a unique expertise in terms of social service providers struggle system evaluating public policy proposals and with the government’s alarming and • Support environmental protection laws funding for human services. Every day prolonged disinvestment in human we see how laws and regulations can services and lagging rate increases • Participate in a living wage campaign have a positive or negative effect on that don’t meet true costs. Charitable • Promote peace those we serve. Public policies can bring agencies are expected to “pick up the  Advocate for international unintended consequences that instead slack,” but the gap is too large to be • assistance of achieving original objectives, actually made whole by private dollars. It is cause great harm at the implementation our responsibility to help lawmakers level. For example, while Catholic Charities (and taxpayers) understand that CHARITABLE WORKS wholly supports a living wage for all investment in human services is Meet basic needs & aid workers, raising the minimum wage like a down payment for the future, individuals without simultaneously incorporating ultimately leading to thriving families • Volunteer at homeless shelters the increase into city and state service and healthier communities, and that • Tutor children reimbursements forces many nonprofits to prevention and early intervention • Assist women who face a crisis struggle with increased program deficits. services save significant dollars in pregnancy This has become a very real challenge for future budgets. • Participate in a community non-profit service providers who often It is part of our mission to address beautification program operate with little to no financial cushion. the root causes of issues. In addition • Donate to food & clothing When Illinois required participants to providing direct services that pantries in the Child Care Assistance Program help families create a better life, this • Sponsor a refugee family to undergo income eligibility oftentimes means pursing systemic • Raise money for an overseas redetermination every six months, changes that can have a more development project families cycled in and out of services permanent and far-reaching impact — as wages fluctuated over the year. “Love in Action” demands nothing less. For more resources visit: www.usccb.org/jphd

WINTER 2020 SPIRIT 5 COVER STORY Catholic Charities Legal Assistance (CCLA) Created by Legal Assistance Builds Trust Board Members Legal services began at Catholic and Empowers Clients Charities in 2002 as a wholly volunteer initiative founded by By Adriana Doger • Intern representation this past year by 30%. Board Members and lawyers Mary The growth of CCL means looking G. Fitzpatrick and Jeanne S. Casey atholic Charities Legal Assistance beyond at Catholic Charities’ when case managers and social (CCLA) program provides legal administrative office to other workers were encountering more C services to individuals who need a centers. “This year we are launching and more clients with pressing lawyer or want to be walked through CCLA services in three additional legal needs. In 2005, CCLA officially the legal processes or options related geographies: Lake County, the opened its doors for the first time, to a given situation. CCLA also assists Westside of Chicago and at the initially providing referrals to legal individuals who are representing Peace Center (an afterschool and aid resources until it was able to themselves in a legal matter by giving violence prevention program), as well recruit more volunteer attorneys to them advice on their rights as well as as expanding services to victims of provide direct counsel. the steps they need to take related domestic violence. Today, Catholic Charities is a to their legal issue. With a staff of CCLA makes sure clients have a comprehensive legal aid department attorneys and non-attorneys who partner by their side who will help providing in-depth legal advice, volunteer, CCLA offers their services in voice their concerns and be able to representation, and community English and Spanish, regardless advocate on their behalf to ensure they legal education. The department of a person´s religion, ethnicity, or receive justice under the law. continues to be supported by a citizen status. Volunteers are critical to this work large network of dedicated pro bono Most CCLA clients have little to and more are needed. The training for attorneys and volunteers. no income with which to pay for volunteer attorneys includes continual legal advice and are challenged in legal education credit, which means SPECIAL SERVICES understanding the legal system that the Supreme Court has approved generally, and related to their the particular courses. Adds Hilda, • Orders of Protection Orders of Protection for survivors particular situation, and the need “We also educate our volunteers in of domestic violence, sexual for services is growing. Says CCLA empowerment-based legal practice, assault, or stalking. Director Hilda Bahena, “We are seeing an approach created by a social worker an increase in demand for our services colleague and myself that focuses • Immigrant Survivors Project Legal services to address the because the community trusts our on using legal services to empower barriers faced by immigrant ability to walk with them and assist clients.” This gives legal pro bono survivors, including immigration them in resolving their legal issues. representation options to clients status issues and language Then word gets around. We have whenever possible so that they decide barriers. increased every service that we offer, which path best fits their needs, putting • Senior Project which is fantastic because we are really them in control of a process that could Legal seminars, consultations, helping people.” make them feel trapped or powerless. and preparation of documents, The most common service request including advance directives that CCLA deals with is direct ABOUT ADRIANA DOGER for seniors. representation of clients in civil I´m a student and legal assistance • Special Immigrant litigation cases like family, housing and volunteer in the CCLA, which is very Juvenile Status Initiative consumer law. “We also know from fulfilling, because I’m learning a Assistance in establishing studies that this is the most impactful lot from the director Hilda and the custody or guardianship of service we can provide because of supervisor Rosy. We are very dedicated immigrant children who have the high level of expertise it requires to our clients. We advocate for every been abused, neglected, and the significant cost of legal client’s legal issue and we make sure to or abandoned by one or representation. Direct representation do our best to keep clients confidence both parents. doesn’t just mean in court. It’s in us. The help we provide impacts our also administrative hearings and clients’ housing, family stability, safety, FOR MORE INFORMATION negotiations—all of which is time- and their ability to protect and take (312) 948-6821 consuming. We increased our direct care of their children.

6 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 There is so much waiting for you with Catholic Charities Senior Services!

Catholic Charities senior services provides care, Our services are designed to provide enrichment, independence, and opportunities for as little or as much support as you socializing for our older adults at every life stage. need and are customized by client. Choose from: ✓✓ You’ll experience professional, caring staff ✓✓ Safe, welI-maintained and bright facilities • Drop-In Centers • In-Home Care • Adult Day Care • Rehabilitation ✓✓ Activities for spirit, mind, and body

For More Information on Senior Services (312) 655-7470

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WINTER 2020 SPIRIT 7 COVER STORY

West Side Expanded Mental Health Center Tailored to the Community It Serves

An Interview with Laura Kuever informed that we were the selected related to mental health. We’re Associate Vice President of provider of the services and began making progress but more needs to Child, Youth, and Family Services the journey of locating a site for the be done. program. In July 2019, the site was he Encompassing Center, a new found and a build-out began. Tcommunity mental health facility “There’s still an on Chicago’s West Side, officially There was a particular shortage opened its doors on October 15, 2019 of services on the West Side, is awful lot of stigma with Catholic Charities providing that right? related to mental counseling and other mental health When we first expanded mental services to residents. health services in Austin there were health. We’re making We talked with Laura Kuever, not many other behavioral health Associate Vice President for Child, service providers there at the time. progress but more Youth, and Family Services about the Based on the needs assessment that Center and Catholic Charities’ role in we reviewed and the one that we needs to be done. ” its development. conducted, the same was true of East and West Garfield, North Lawndale, Laura Kuever How did the Encompassing and the Near Westside. Center come to be? From my understanding, community What do you think most people What did Catholic Charities focus mental health centers throughout don’t understand about mental on in our approach to services? the city were closed and as a result, health, particularly in low-income Our experience is that if mental communities like the ones we serve on communities or those that health services are needed then case the West side were left without enough experience high levels of violence? management, substance use, and resources in their communities. The community education services are also Save our Mental Health Centers That there can be significant amounts very likely needed. We brought that all Coalition approached some community of trauma and stress that are then together in our proposal. members with the idea of passing a exacerbated by a lack of services. tax referendum to fund mental health Additionally, people don’t often services for their area. That started realize that what they are experiencing Why are culturally competent a 4-year process to get where we are are mental health symptoms. Because services so important? now. So this is clearly an example of trauma is such a part of their day-to- We all respond to our peers. There neighbors helping neighbors. day existence, it is hard to know that needs to be trust and some sense Catholic Charities became involved symptoms are a reaction to trauma of shared experience if someone is in October 2018 when we responded to and that there are services available going to tell you about their life and the request for proposal for services. that will help improve their life. Or, their challenges and ask for help. We reviewed a needs assessment that if they do realize it, then they feel So, it is important to hire from the was completed on the Westside and that because they are suffering from community you are serving and conducted our own assessment so mental health symptoms, they are to leverage that culture as part of we could tailor our proposed program weak or somehow “broken,” and this their healing where you can. Our as closely as possible to community prevents them from getting help. clients are the best authors of their needs. In January 2019, we were There’s still an awful lot of stigma experiences and their progress.

Encompassing Center

Serving residents of East and West Garfield, North Lawndale, and the Near West Side. Monday-Friday, 8:30-4:30 • (773) 638-5703

8 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 PARISHHEADER PROFILE

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish GLENVIEW

Putting Faith into Action

or years, Our Lady of Perpetual Family Fund, Women’s Guilds, women. “We love partnering with FHelp Catholic parish (OLPH) , Men’s Club, Catholic Charities,” explains Sharon. in Glenview has been a steadfast and other ministries provide many “Families moving from partner with Catholic Charities. opportunities for parishioners to get to self-sufficiency need help in “Every year that goes by, the parish so many different areas. Catholic gets more invested in serving the Charities provides the professional poor, and also in working with “We like that we can assistance with housing, counseling, Catholic Charities,” says Adriana job training, and other services. We Kelly, North Regional Director for extend the reach of like that we can extend the reach of Catholic Charities. Serving others an excellent program that has been is embedded in the parish culture an excellent program proven to lift people out of poverty.” which focuses on each parishioner that has been proven Beyond the New Hope Apartments becoming an engaged disciple, Program, the parish’s support can be striving to live out the Gospel of Jesus to lift people out felt at all levels of the agency. They in their everyday lives. participate on Catholic Charities’ “Matthew 25 is really the heart of poverty.” boards and committees, of the Gospel that inspires our provide volunteers for programs, stock service,” explains Sharon Riley, OLPH Sharon Riley our food pantries and clothing rooms; parishioner and member of Catholic plan and serve meals for our Evening Charities Regional Advisory Board. involved. “Catholic Charities is often Supper Program; sponsor families With over 50 ministries, OLPH a beneficiary of OLPH’s numerous in our refugee program; and host a parishioners are definitely “doers” of clothing, food, and other drives,” Catholic Charities social worker at the the Word, demonstrating the love of says Adriana. “But they also help so parish for closer on-site collaboration. God in a multitude of ways. “There are many other organizations in the area. “We’ve been grateful for our many, many hands that work together. Truly the outpouring of parishioner partnership with Catholic Charities and We have a beautiful collaboration of participation is awe-inspiring.” its growth over many years,” explains our ministries that weaves together an One of the primary ways OLPH Fr. Jerry Boland, Pastor of OLPH. “The effective response to our neighbors supports Catholic Charities is their stronger the partnership between in need,” Sharon explains. “It is really sponsorship of families in our Catholic Charities and the parishes, the about putting love in action.” New Hope Apartments, a rapid more effective we can be in meeting OLPH’s Sharing Ministry, Needy rehousing program for homeless the many needs in the community.”

WINTER 2020 SPIRIT 9 EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERS HEADER

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1 d’Vine Affair 3 Ayudando Nuestras Familias 5 Thanksgiving Day Supper 7 Spirit of Saint Nicholas Silvia Perez, FOX 32 anchor and Joe Sister Joellen Tomas and Family volunteers at Catholic A young couple enjoy the evening on Glunz Jr., d’Vine Affair Chair, promote Bishop Placido Rodriguez Charities Thanksgiving Day Supper. the dance floor. the event. 4 Gibson’s New Year’s Event 6 Harvest of Hope 8 Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball 2 Tuesday Night Suppers Elegant young guests at the Heart of Charity Award presented to (left to right) Acting President, Kathy Volunteers for the weekly Tuesday New Year’s celebration at Gibson’s Phil Andrew (second from left) by Donahue, Cardinal Cupich, Liz & night dinner. Steakhouse. Rev. Patrick McGrath (center). Marge Livingston, event Chaircouple Jerry & Judy Castellini. 10 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 UPCOMINGHEADER EVENTS

SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 22 THURSDAY • APRIL 23 Compassion In Action Dinner Legal Lifelines Join us for the 16th annual Compassion Cocktail Reception in Action Dinner at Idlewild Country Club The Legal Lifelines Cocktail Reception will in Flossmoor. The event benefits Catholic be held on Thursday, April 23 at the Union Charities programs in the South Region League Club of Chicago. More than 200 and includes the presentation of awards, a guests are expected to attend this annual silent auction, and raffle prizes. event in support of the Catholic Charities Legal Assistance Program. THURSDAY • MARCH 12 1 St. Patrick’s Day Celebration THURSDAY • APRIL 23 Celebrate St. Paddy at the legendary Art of Caring FitzGerald’s Night Club in Berwyn. The Women’s Board of Lake County Proceeds support Catholic Charities Services 31st Annual Art of Caring event New Hope Housing Program in the will be held on Saturday, April 23, at the West Region. The event features great elegant and historic Deer Path Inn in Irish entertainment by the McNulty Lake Forest. Enjoy a fabulous reception Irish Dancers, the Shannon Rovers, and dinner, unique live auction, and and members of the Irish Musicians entertainment. Proceeds benefit programs Association-Chicago. Highlights include a in Lake County. 2 fantastic grand raffle prizes and a terrific silent auction. SUNDAY • APRIL 26 SATURDAY • MARCH 21 Blossoms of Hope Brunch Helping Hands The 30th Annual Blossoms of Hope Brunch, benefiting the Loving Outreach Dinner & Silent Auction to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) program, The Helping Hands Dinner and Auction will take place on April 26 at Drury Lane is on Saturday, March 21 at the Silver in Oak Brook Terrace. This event features Lake Country Club in Orland Park. More an amazing array of raffle and pick a than 250 guests are expected to attend prize items and the famous Drury Lane this annual event in support of Catholic Sunday Brunch Buffet. 3 Charities programs in the Southwest Region. Highlights include the presentation of THURSDAY • JUNE 4 awards, a silent auction, and raffle prizes. Diamonds Are Forever SATURDAY • APRIL 18 Boutique & Luncheon Hearts for Hope The 6th Annual Diamonds Are Forever Boutique & Luncheon will be held at a Dinner & Auction new venue, the North Shore Country Club The 31st Annual Hearts for Hope Dinner in Glenview. Shopping at the boutique & Auction is on Saturday, April 18 at The and the silent auction begins at 10 a.m., Cotillion in Palatine. More than 300 guests with the luncheon and fashion show at are expected to attend. Enjoy music by noon, followed by more shopping. Several 4 7th Heaven, a silent and live auction, and vendors will be displaying their unique recognition awards for members of the creations for purchase. Catholic Charities 1 COMPASSION IN ACTION community. Proceeds support the wide will receive a portion of the sales receipts Dinner at the Southwest Region event benefiting range of services provided by Catholic and all proceeds benefit Catholic Charities Catholic Charities Southwest Region programs and Charities in the Northwest Suburbs. Programs in the North Suburbs. services. 2 ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Fitzgerald’s, benefiting Catholic Charities New Hope Apartments for homeless women. FOR TICKETS, SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, 3 Legal Lifelines AND MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Legal Lifelines Cocktail Reception benefits Catholic Charities invaluable legal services to clients. Denise Samulis (312) 948-6864 • [email protected] 4 Art of Caring The Art of Caring benefits Catholic Charities www.catholiccharities.net/events Lake County services.

WINTER 2020 SPIRIT 11 FOUNDATION, CORPORATE AND GOVERNMENTFOUNDATIONS PARTNERSHIPS

Barrington Memorial VFW Generosity Supports Veterans Care at St. Leo Residence

hree members of the TBarrington Memorial VFW Post #7706 – current Post Commander Guy Newell, former Post Commander Rich Bowman, and Bill Hannay – paid a visit to the St. Leo Residence for Veterans, 7750 S. Emerald Avenue, in late October. The St. Leo Residence, part of Catholic Charities St. Leo Campus for Veterans, provides housing and supportive services to 141 previously homeless Residence since it opened in as they expressed their veterans. The St. Leo January 2017. Some veterans A total of 515 gratitude for the housing Residence gives veterans have been able to reunite previously and services being provided the opportunity to maintain with family with whom they to their fellow service stable, affordable housing had been estranged. Others homeless members at the St. Leo while receiving support have maintained steady Residence. services and developing employment long enough to veterans have Catholic Charities is further life skills. On-site purchase a car or a home of grateful for the generous case managers assist the their own. been served support of VFW Post #7706 veterans in addressing Among the challenges over the years. It is through challenges and any unmet for veterans, forty-one by the St. Leo their generosity and a host needs that may impede the percent of the current of others’ that we are able veterans from achieving residents are over age 62, Residence since to care for those who risked their goals. a significant barrier for it opened in and often suffered so much The Barrington Memorial those hoping to re-enter in the name of our freedom. team met with Cynthia the job market. In addition, January 2017. Steen, Multi-Building many of the residents face The Barrington Memorial Property Manager for substance use or mental VFW Post #7706 was the St. Leo Campus; and health issues caused or its support of the St. Leo chartered in June, 1946, and David Dempsey, Program exacerbated by their military Residence shortly after it currently has 77 members. Director, St. Leo Residence, experience or their periods opened in 2017. The Post Their mission is to support who answered questions of homelessness. has been a steadfast annual veteran programming, about the St. Leo residents’ Rich and Bill were not donor ever since. and provide service to the successes and challenges. unfamiliar with many of Rich and Bill later took a Barrington community. A total of 515 previously these dynamics. Rich was tour of the residence and homeless veterans have the Post Commander remarked on the building’s PHOTO Barrington Memorial VFW been served by the St. Leo when Post #7706 began meticulous maintenance members outside St. Leo’s.

Barrington Memorial VFW Post #7706

You can learn more about the Post, its members and activities, visit: www.vfwpost7706.org

12 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 BOARD RELATIONS ANDHEADER MISSION ENGAGEMENT JUNIOR BOARD

Junior Board Honors Michael L. Monticello

Michael L. Monticello was given the Pope Francis Award at the Junior Board’s Annual Casino Night on February 15. Michael has been an active and generous member of the Catholic Charities Board of Directors and Junior Board. He helped create the Junior Board in 2002 and has worked to grow it ever since. Join Us On Thank You Catholic Charites is blessed to Ash Wednesday We can’t thank our Spirit readers enjoy the support of more than 500 Junior Board members. In celebration of Ash Wednesday, enough for your generosity at the Board of Directors and Junior the close of 2019. From the St. Nicholas Ball and year-end appeal, Board cordially invite you to an Mary’s Closet Ash Wednesday Mass and Evening to the Celebration of Giving toy of Reflection on Wednesday, , you have brought light and Among the many areas of Catholic February 26 at 6 p.m. at the help to so many people. You are Charities work where the Junior Board Catholic Charities St. Louise de indispensable to our work and to makes its mark is Mary’s Closet, our Marillac Chapel. Rev. Wayne F. better lives for our neighbors. professional clothing pantry at 721 Watts and Rev. Gerard Kelly, C.M. N. LaSalle. Once each month, the will concelebrated the Mass. Music Junior Board works specifically with ministers include Maggie Boland, With your help, 499 families refugees to prepare for job interviews cantor and Peter Thompson, received gifts and basic and find just the right outfit to help piano. The Mass will be followed them shine. by a reception in St. Vincent Hall. necessities during Mary’s Closet was established We ask you to please bring the holiday season. in 2011 by Catholic Charities Board men and women’s underwear (all Members to enhance clients’ self- sizes) to benefit our Pope Francis confidence and spirits, to provide Ministries shower program for the clients with a choice of professional homeless. attire, and to support them in Please RSVP by Wednesday, preparing for interviews and life February 19, to: boardrelations2@ events such as graduations, funerals, catholiccharities.net or (312) 655-7931 and weddings.

FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Andrew E. McKernin • (312) 655-7557 [email protected] www.ccofchicagovolunteer.com

WINTER 2020 SPIRIT 13 MYHEADER STORY

Catholic Charities Legal Assistance and Support Provides a Refuge From Fear

y name is Gail and I am the treated that way. He also thought Department on Aging, claiming Mmother of three children; it was normal behavior because that I was abusing him. The a grown boy and girl, and one his father had been verbally investigators were able to see teenage girl. I’ve worked hard and emotionally abusive to his that I was not harming anyone all my life and am currently mother. By the time my partner and in fact was being abused. “ working three jobs. I love to The investigators advised me cook and do hair, and I’ve been to get an emergency order of a hairdresser since I was 15 “I am so grateful to protection, which I did right away, years old. Although I’ve owned and received police assistance to my own salons in the past, my CCLA attorneys remove him from our home. currently I work for a friend’s But removing him from our salon on weekends, work nights ... and Catholic home was only the first step. I am at an automotive factory during Charities for helping so grateful to my CCLA attorneys, the week, and provide driving Adela (CCLA Legal Program services. I went to culinary me get a permanent Director) and Melanie (CCLA Staff school and try to use these skills Attorney), and Catholic Charities to bake cakes or cook special order of protection for helping me get a permanent meals to earn extra money. order of protection. I was so I first became acquainted and getting me scared to face my parter in court, with Catholic Charities Legal I would be shaking every time. Assistance (CCLA) a couple of through the entire But, having a CCLA attorney by years ago when I was referred my side made a difference; I felt to them by the court because I process. ” supported. I did not have to face could not afford the legal help my abuser alone because they I needed to leave an abusive were with me every step of the relationship. My partner did not started being physically abusive, way. My CCLA attorneys referred want me to go, but after more we already had children. It was me to counseling and slowly I than 20 years of abuse, I had hard to leave. And a lot of the began to gain my self-confidence decided that it was enough. time he was a good dad. He loves back. I am a Christian, so I truly Twenty years is a long time, his children, but he didn’t realize believe that it was God’s hand but I had a history, and so did how much he was hurting them guiding me and bringing me the my partner. My mother was in by the way he was treating me. people I needed to get through it. an abusive relationship — not When I told him he needed When I share my story, I hope physically abusive, but verbally to move out, he called the that it helps others who are living and emotionally abusive. I Department of Child and in fear to know that they are not thought it was normal to be Family Services (DCFS) and the alone and that help is available. ” Catholic Charities Legal Assistance (CCLA)

721 N. LaSalle Street • Chicago, Illinois INTAKE (312) 948-6821

14 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 FROM LETTERS FROMHEADER SOCIAL MEDIA

These stories were submitted to Catholic Charities through the mail or online. We welcome your submissions, stories, and memories.

“Shortly after moving to Barrington, I received a call from Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago LOSS (Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide) program asking if I would be interested in working with recent survivors of a suicide loss. As LOSS was my saving grace in the aftermath of my own dad’s death from suicide, I was grateful for the opportunity to give back. It was there I realized the purpose in my own pain. In my own practice, I spend the day walking alongside others as they work to find purpose in their pain. I will forever be grateful that they choose me to walk alongside them.” JLH

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2020 UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR

Saturday FEBRUARY APRIL BLOSSOMS OF HOPE March 21 BRUNCH COMPASSION IN ACTION HOLY FAMILY VILLA Sunday, April 26 DINNER DINNER Drury Lane Saturday, February 22 Sunday, April 5 Oakbrook Terrace Idlewild Country Club Gaelic Park, Oak Forest (312) 948-6797 Flossmoor (630) 257-2291 (708) 333-8379 HEARTS FOR HOPE JUNE DINNER & AUCTION DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER MARCH Saturday, April 18 LUNCHEON & BOUTIQUE ST. PATRICK’S DAY The Cotillion, Palatine Thursday, June 4 22nd Annual CELEBRATION (847) 376-2118 North Shore Country Club Thursday, March 12 Glenview FitzGerald’s, Berwyn LEGAL LIFELINES (847) 376-2121 (708) 329-4022 COCKTAIL RECEPTION Thursday, April 23 CITY SOUTHWEST HELPING HANDS Union League Club STORY: BUILDING OUR DINNER AND AUCTION DINNER & AUCTION of Chicago COMMUNITY RECEPTION Saturday, March 21 (312) 655-7290 Wednesday, June 10 Benefiting Silver Lake Country Club St. Ignatius College Prep Catholic Charities Orland Park ART OF CARING Chicago Programs in the (708) 430-0428 Saturday, April 25 (773) 349-8835 Southwest Region The Deer Path Inn Lake Forest (847) 782-4115

Silver Lake Country Club Orland Park www.catholiccharities.net/events EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERS HEADER

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1 d’Vine Affair 3 Ayudando Nuestras Familias 5 Thanksgiving Day Supper 7 Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball Perez and Glunz Jr host The House of Sister Joellen Tomas and Family volunteers at Catholic Couple enjoys the evening on the Glunz vintner’s table. Bishop Placido Rodriguez Charities Thanksgiving Day Supper. dance floor. 2 Tuesday Night Suppers 4 Gibson’s New Year’s Event 6 Harvest of Hope 8 Spirit of Saint Nicholas Ball Volunteers for the weekly Tuesday Elegant young guests at the Heart of Charity Award presented to (left to right) Acting President, Kathy night dinner. New Year dinner celebration at Phil Andrew (second from left) by Donahue, Cardinal Cupich, Marge Gibson’s Steakhouse. Rev. Patrick McGrath (center). & Liz Livingston, event Chaircouple Jerry & Judy Castellini. 10 SPIRIT WINTER 2020 UPCOMINGHEADER EVENTS

SATURDAY • FEBRUARY 22 THURSDAY • APRIL 23 Compassion In Action Dinner Legal Lifelines Join us for the 16th annual Compassion Cocktail Reception in Action Dinner at Idlewild Country Club The Legal Lifelines Cocktail Reception will in Flossmoor. The event benefits Catholic be held on Thursday, April 23 at the Union Charities programs in the South Region League Club of Chicago. More than 200 and includes the presentation of awards, a guests are expected to attend this annual silent auction, and raffle prizes. event in support of the Catholic Charities Legal Assistance Program. THURSDAY • MARCH 12 1 St. Patrick’s Day Celebration THURSDAY • APRIL 23 Celebrate St. Paddy at the legendary Art of Caring FitzGerald’s Night Club in Berwyn. The Women’s Board of Lake County Proceeds support Catholic Charities Services 31st Annual Art of Caring event New Hope Housing Program in the will be held on Saturday, April 23, at the West Region. The event features great elegant and historic Deer Path Inn in Irish entertainment by the McNulty Lake Forest. Enjoy a fabulous reception Irish Dancers, the Shannon Rovers, and dinner, unique live auction, and and members of the Irish Musicians entertainment. Proceeds benefit programs Association-Chicago. Highlights include a in Lake County. 2 fantastic grand raffle prizes and a terrific silent auction. SUNDAY • APRIL 26 SATURDAY • MARCH 21 Blossoms of Hope Brunch Helping Hands The 30th Annual Blossoms of Hope Brunch, benefiting the Loving Outreach Dinner & Silent Auction to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) program, The Helping Hands Dinner and Auction will take place on April 26 at Drury Lane is on Saturday, March 21 at the Silver in Oak Brook Terrace. This event features Lake Country Club in Orland Park. More an amazing array of raffle and pick a than 250 guests are expected to attend prize items and the famous Drury Lane this annual event in support of Catholic Sunday Brunch Buffet. 3 Charities programs in the Southwest Region. Highlights include the presentation of THURSDAY • JUNE 4 awards, a silent auction, and raffle prizes. Diamonds Are Forever SATURDAY • APRIL 18 Boutique & Luncheon Hearts for Hope The 6th Annual Diamonds Are Forever Boutique & Luncheon will be held at a Dinner & Auction new venue, the North Shore Country Club The 31st Annual Hearts for Hope Dinner in Glenview. Shopping at the boutique & Auction is on Saturday, April 18 at The and the silent auction begins at 10 a.m., Cotillion in Palatine. More than 300 guests with the luncheon and fashion show at are expected to attend. Enjoy music by noon, followed by more shopping. Several 4 7th Heaven, a silent and live auction, and vendors will be displaying their unique recognition awards for members of the creations for purchase. Catholic Charities 1 COMPASSION IN ACTION community. Proceeds support the wide will receive a portion of the sales receipts Couple enjoys dinner at the Southwest Region range of services provided by Catholic and all proceeds benefit Catholic Charities event benefiting Catholic Charities Southwest Charities in the Northwest Suburbs. Programs in the North Suburbs. Region programs and services. 2 ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Fitzgerald’s, benefiting Catholic Charities New Hope Apartments for homeless women. FOR TICKETS, SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, 3 Legal Lifelines AND MORE INFORMATION CONTACT Legal Lifelines Cocktail Reception benefits Catholic Charities invaluable legal services to clients. Denise Samulis (312) 948-6864 • [email protected] 4 Art of Caring The Art of Caring benefits Catholic Charities www.catholiccharities.net/events Lake County services.

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