Annual Report 2012-2013 Mission Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women is a home dedicated to safety and dignity for a diverse community of women who are empowered to begin new and productive lives. A ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province, since 1996.
This document is posted to help you gain knowledge. Please leave a comment to let me know what you think about it! Share it to your friends and learn new things together.
Transcript
Annual Report 2012-2013
Mission Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women is a home dedicated to safety and dignity for a diverse
community of women who are empowered to begin new and productive lives.
A ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province, since 1996.
Our •
From Sarah’s Director:
At a time of transition in seasons, the world, and our lives, our feet pass over
many stepping stones along the journey. We are in motion and trying to settle
on firmer ground. As we struggle to keep our foothold, it seems a challenge to
pause and “smell the roses” along the path. But it is important to enjoy all the
moments in life and be fully present in those moments. Our 2013 Annual Report
is one of those moments when we pause with joy and gratitude to reflect on our
journey of the past year.
Sarah’s staff and residents hope that you will enjoy reading this annual
publication. We know you will celebrate the many accomplishments of women
who have lived here in 2012-13. This publication is also a tribute of thanks to
those whose generosity has come from their pocketbooks, hearts, and
toolboxes of skills and energies towards accomplishment of Sarah’s mission.
You make such a difference in the lives of women at Sarah’s!
For those of you who have followed Sarah’s for years you know that we typically have had a print publication in the
spring and that last year we added a printed report in the summer. We’ve combined these two for a summer annual
report. We will continue to bring you quarterly updates via email. As always, we encourage you to let us know the
best way to communicate with you about Sarah’s (by email, mail, or social media). Again, thank you for all that you
do. May peacemaking prevail on Earth today!
Cheryl Steeves
Director, Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women
Mantras . . . “You come to Sarah’s in order to leave.”
• “You are a good woman.”
• “May peacemaking prevail on Earth today.”
• “You can do it!”
• “Sarah’s will always be your home.”
• “One lesson at a time. One woman at a time.
One day at a time.”
Kristine Brelje, Advisory Council Member
It’s an honor to be in community with this incredible
ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The women
at Sarah’s have tremendous courage and strength
in how they rebuild their lives. Even further, I am
humbled by the depth of the human kindness of
the staff, Sarah’s supporters, and friends who
lovingly illustrate to the women,
“We walk hand-in-hand with you every day.”
Kristine Brelje
Mary Hunt, Chair, Sarah’s Advisory Council
It’s my pleasure and honor to begin my term as chair of Sarah’s Advisory Council as we share this annual report
of the remarkable work being done at Sarah’s by the residents, staff, and volunteers. This ministry of the Sisters
of St. Joseph and Consociates boldly exemplifies the community’s commitment “to act for justice and to walk with
suffering people” and to address issues “…which demean or deny human dignity…” The women who come to
Sarah’s in great need transform their lives, step by step, as they prepare to re-enter the wider world with renewed
skills, strength and spirit.
We are all indebted to the commitment and leadership of Cheryl Maloney in the
role of SAC chair these past four years. Cheryl’s expertise in the world of non-
profit leadership, combined with her passion for the many issues faced by the
women of Sarah’s, has been invaluable to the organization itself, as well as to
the Advisory Council. Thank you, Cheryl, for your dedication and support!
Our Advisory Council supports the residents and staff through the members’
individual expertise and connections by partnering with organizations, helping with
events and fundraising, and sharing the stories and successes of Sarah’s in the
broader community. This past year we have also worked with staff and other
contributors to create a new strategic plan to guide our efforts over the next three
years. The plan focuses on our core work of serving the women of Sarah’s,
enhancing awareness and fundraising, honoring the CSJ legacy, and finding new
ways for the Advisory Council to be effective.
If you are inspired by what you read in this Annual Report, I encourage you to contact us to learn more about how
you can be a part of the mission and work of Sarah’s. Opportunities abound!
With gratitude for your support,
Mary Hunt
“From Sarah’s, I got confidence; I got to accomplish my dreams.”
- Former Sarah’s Resident 2012
Accomplishments of Sarah’s Residents Education and Training All women who live at Sarah’s are employed or attending school, and some residents do both. Nine of our residents are either in process or have completed a job training program. Twenty-nine of Sarah’s residents are currently in school. Twenty-three attend English language classes, and six are in enrolled in college.
Legal, Housing, and Transportation Several of our residents at Sarah’s were able to obtain an immigration attorney, prepare for immigration proceedings, apply for asylum, and apply for permanent residence. Additional legal assistance included paying taxes, filing for divorce, and filing for an order for protection. Sarah’s residents use public transportation; however, a few are able to buy/lease a car or get one from a relative or friend. We also encourage bike riding whenever possible. Determining transportation needs, as well as budgeting for transportation, is part of the goal-setting process at Sarah’s. Additionally, eighteen months is the expected amount of time that residents will live at Sarah’s. When they arrive, none of Sarah’s residents have any other safe housing options or qualify for any other housing program.
Cost per month for one resident at Sarah’s: $750
• Household Supplies $35
• Food $80
• Utilities $175
• Transportation $55
• Building and Grounds $405
Health and Family This year, five women worked on reuniting with their families. Sarah’s provides phone cards, legal referrals, and other support to facilitate t he reunification process, which can sometimes be stressful. Health issues addressed here at Sarah’s include the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of each resident. We work to ensure that every woman has access to the care and support she needs to reach her health-related goals. These goals include obtaining health insurance, exercising, addressing trauma-related issues, having eye exams, getting glasses, and receiving dental and medical care.
Work and Employment Eighteen of the residents at Sarah’s are working either full- or part-time jobs. Eleven of our residents volunteer their time outside of
Sarah’s, and one woman volunteers as Resident Staff at Sarah’s. Those who are able are asked to contribute toward their living expenses at Sarah’s. The average living expense paid per resident was $150.00 per month. This covers approximately 20% of the total monthly cost for one resident at Sarah’s.
“I have lived at Sarah’s for five months. I go to school during the
day, and I work to pay bills to send my family support.”
- Current Sarah’s Resident
Life at Sarah’s In addition to housing, community and safety, Sarah’s provides residents with opportunities to
develop life skills. New residents complete a survey assessing experience with life skills that are
needed. Then, a strategy for developing skills is incorporated into each woman’s goal plan. Many
times, it is the staff here at Sarah’s who mentor women in these areas, including: resume writing
and employment, budget planning and banking, cooking and food planning.
Some of the life skills that the residents of Sarah’s are working on are:
• Sustainable living
• Make/Follow a budget
• Use public transportation
• Finance
• Care for garden/yard
• Recycle
• Compost
• Cultural transition
• Cook/set table
Some of the goals for the residents at Sarah’s include:
• Obtaining education
• Learning English
• Feeling safe
• Obtaining employment
• Gaining access to healthcare
• Reuniting with family
• Community building
• Learning to drive
• Developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• Finding permanent housing
From a Current Resident, 2013
I have been in the USA for one year. I have been at Sarah’s for almost five months. I decided to come here because I needed a
peaceful place to live. I want to rebuild my life at Sarah’s. Being at Sarah’s so far, I see a dramatic progress in my life. I am improving
my English: speaking, writing and reading. I attend college readiness at the International Institute of Minnesota to get ready for
college this fall. Staying at Sarah’s, I have to do my household chores and also care for and share with others.
I have also learned a lot of things from the women, and I am integrating into the new culture.
Every Wednesday we have dinner and eat together. It’s a big family that cooks, shares and eats
food from different countries together. Overall, I hope to accomplish my goal, which is to go to
college. I find peace, joy, safety and hope at Sarah’s. I am so grateful to all staff members for their support
and help (physical, mental and spiritual).
About Sarah’s Services
Safe and reliable housing is just the first step on each resident’s journey toward a new life.
Residents receive referrals and on-site support, which enable them to build the connections and
confidence they need to independently take steps toward their goals. Sarah’s refers women to
volunteer and paid employment opportunities, job search services, health and insurance services,
legal services, permanent housing, and education and training opportunities. Below are some of
the service organizations with whom Sarah’s collaborates. This community-based model ensures
that women from Sarah’s are empowered with the skills they need to advocate for themselves.
Permanent Housing &
Social Services
Bridging
Center for Victims of Torture
CommonBond
Dress for Success
Hennepin County Medical Center HousingLink.org
International Institute
of Minnesota
Minnesota Council
of Churches
Minneapolis Public Housing
Ready for Success
Joseph’s Coat
St. Paul Public Library System St. Paul Public Housing
Work Placement, Income,
& Financial Services
Center for Victims of Torture
Family Means
Hennepin County
International Institute of Minnesota
Jewish Family Services
LifeTrack Resources
Midwest Careers Institute
Minnesota Work
Force Center
Ramsey County
St. Paul Public Library System
WISE Transportation
Cycles for Change
Metro Transit Discount Pass
Education/Training/Volunteering
Council on American-Islamic Relations American Red Cross
Carondelet Village
Century College
Goodwill/Easter Seals
Hubbs Center, St. Paul Schools
Hubert H. Humphrey Job Corps
International Institute
of Minnesota
Lehmann Center
LifeTrack Resources
Lincoln Center
Metro State University
Midwest Careers Institute
Minnesota Literacy Council
St. Paul College
Health
Hennepin County Medical Center Institute of Himalayan Tradition HealthEast-St. Joseph’s Hospital
Lens Crafters-Gift of Sight
Minnesota Care
Open Cities
Places of Worship / Sarah’s Chapel
Portico HealthNet Insurance
Regions Hospital
Wisdom Ways Center for Spirituality
St. Mary’s Health Clinics
Women’s Drum Center
Friends and Volunteers of Sarah’s
Legal Services
The Advocates for Human Rights Attorney friends of Sarah’s
Bridges to Safety
Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota
International Institute of Minnesota
Lutheran Social Services
Southern Minnesota
Regional Legal Services
Volunteering at Sarah’s Sarah’s currently has over 20 people who volunteer in
and around our home on a regular basis. Additional
volunteers participate in special events or programs.
Sarah’s is also a host location for the St. Joseph Worker
and the Ignatian Volunteer programs, and we are
deeply enriched by their dedication to the mission and
work of Sarah’s. There are many opportunities for
individuals or groups to become more involved in the
life of Sarah’s. We are grateful for all our volunteers!
Mary Himrod, Ignatian Volunteer My name is Mary Himrod and I am an Ignatian Volunteer.
As an Ignatian Volunteer, I commit to volunteering at least
thirty-two hours each month. My volunteer area is
Sarah’s... an Oasis for Women, and I have been a
volunteer at Sarah’s since November, 2012. I am older
than any of the women here at Sarah’s including staff
members; so, I feel very grandmotherly most of the time--
but not a bossy grandmother, I hope! My role is to be
present for the residents, and provide assistance with the
upkeep of our beautiful home. You will find me watering
plants, baking cookies, organizing closets, having tea with
the women, and engaging in other tasks that the staff may
need completed. When I have an opportunity to visit with
the women, we share the memories of our youth. They
were surprised that I milked cows while I was a teenager.
They were more surprised that a young girl would milk
cows in America. At Sarah’s, we take care of each other.
When I am dusting and I need a ladder, the women want
to do it for me so I don’t fall. They are generous when
preparing their meals and usually invite me to join them.
They are so hospitable. I love them very much, and I love
volunteering at Sarah’s!
Akudo Omeoga,
St. Joseph Worker At the beginning of my time at Sarah’s, I was excited to work with
women who have experienced trauma within their lives. I was
fresh out of college; I was young and ready to conquer the world,
I didn’t really think about how I would be affected doing advocacy
work. As the St. Joseph Worker, I have learned many life lessons
about resilience, self-worth, and happiness. I have had the
opportunity to work alongside women who are rebuilding and
strengthening their lives to be more stable and secure. I have built
bonds with the women, staff, and volunteers. To be enclosed within
the walls of Sarah’s is a blessing; I have found here hope, home,
healing, and above all, friendship.
“I feel happy with the caring and warm love of the people at Sarah’s.”
- Current Sarah’s Resident
Sarah’s Supporters Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women is part of the CSJ Ministry Collaborative, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Sarah’s is funded through the support of foundations, corporations, individual donors, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province. The financial support of all our donors ensures that Sarah’s is able to provide life skill development for the self-empowerment of women.
Individual Donors
Abebech Haile
Adey Belay
Amanda Skorich
Angela Anodebe
Anne & Charles Leck
Ayoko Foli
Barbara & Timothy Ryan
Bernadette M. Judd
Beth Carlson
Betty Inserra
Beryl McHale
BIrhane Mussa
Bonnie Wertz
Brunhilder Fnu Ngwish
Carol & Brian Breuss
Carolyn Glueckstein
Catherine Fitzpatrick
Cathy Hickman
Cecilia Jaisle
Cheri Bunker
Cheryl Ann Hess
Cheryl Maloney
Chris Andres
Connie Slipka
Cristeen Custer
Current Residents of Sarah’s
Debra & Keith Miner
Donna Murphy
Elizabeth Inserra
Emebet (Mimi) Gebremeskel
Erik & Karen Jothen
Evan Creed & Johanna Hatch
Heather Tracey
Helen Dehen
Hercules & Wendy Muehlberg
Janis & Leo Dehler
Jean & William Pociengel
Jenna Guggisberg
Jenny Kelly Jill Reilly Joan Wittman
Joe Lineweaver
Joseph & Mary Beth Boyle
Josiah Swanson
Joyce Humboldt
Julie Goldstein
Karleen Reller
Kate Weyrens
Kathleen Brenner
Kathy Sallee
Katie Zarbock
Kimberly Anderson
Kristine Brelje
Lauren & Edith Davies
Loretta & Andy Kimmet-Mobley
Maeze Kifle Mariam
Marcia & Richard Reardon
Margaret L. Kvasnicka, CSJ
Margaret Pharris
Marie Damien Adams
Marie Scott
Marie Theresa Belanger, CSJ
Marilaurice Hemlock Martha Phillips
Mary Beckfeld
Mary Hunt
Mary Jane Doll
Mary Joyce Flesche
Matthew Chapman Meg & Mark Wilkes Karraker Michael Donahue & Bonnie Wek Michele Garnett McKenzie Michele Nelson Nicholas & Joyce Olsen Nue Nu Pat Behrent Philip Byrne
Philip & Juliana Ledermann
R.E. Syverson
Rachel & Nathan Hanson Rebecca Dobias Renee Crepeau Renuka Jayatunge Richard Syverson Ruth Ryan Sharon Loftsgaarden Sharon Manns Sherry Bartells Susan & Daniel Bembenek Susan Cotten Susan Weberg Thelma & Chuka Obah Theresa Chasar Tracy E. Farr Virginia McCain William Hennig, in honor of Carol Neuburger, CSJ Yodit Fekadu Ayalew
Organizations & Corporations
Sarah’s extends a special “Thank You” to the following for their extraordinary gifts of time, talent, or support.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Community Relations Celeste’s Dream Immigrant Law Center Edina Realty Foundation Expo Elementary School
Highland Park Women’s Club
Otto Bremer Foundation
Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet,
St. Paul Province
Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province Justice Commission
Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province Ministries Foundation
Soroptomist International of the Twin Cities
St. Catherine University Target Foundation
Ten Thousand Villages
The Patrick & Aimee Butler Family Foundation
University of St. Thomas, in honor of Pat Alexander
University Advocates for Women and Equity, University of St. Thomas Women of Wealth
Sarah’s annual report graphic design donated by Nicholas Germano III [email protected]
9 Hole Women’s Golf League, Minneapolis Golf Club Altrusa International of St. Paul Baya Clare, CSJ
Bernice Caruth (Shaklee)
Betty Zehringer
Breadsmith
Brenda Mulry
Carondelet Center
Cheri Bunker, Women’s Drum Center
Cheryl Maloney
Christina Casey
Dan (Klecko) McGleno
Elk River Lutheran Church Evelyn Lennon Gloria Lindquist Jennifer Tachney
Joe Lineweaver
John Hartman
Jonette Kreideweis
Kathy & Denny Getten
Kim Fullmer
Kristine Brelje
Lisa Moriarty (Paths of Peace) Lisa Wright Margaret L. Kvasnicka, CSJ
Mary Beth Boyle Mary Hunt Mary Sutherland Meg Wilkes Karraker Meredith Leary Johnson Michele Garnett McKenzie Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Natalie Robinson Native Oaks Farm (Anne & Charles Leck) Pat Alexander Russel Travis Sarah Beman Sr. Lucy Bruskiewicz, SSJ, TOSF Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province Soroptomist International of the Twin Cities St. Catherine University Activities Team Yarn Tamers & Luann Dummer Center for Women; University of St. Thomas Tracy E. Farr Susan Smith, CSJ Trader Joe’s Twin City Graphics & Printing (Nick Germano) Wachen Anderson Wisdom Ways Center for Spirituality
Sarah’ s. . . an Oasis for Women Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet 1884 Randolph Ave. St. Paul, MN 55105
Thank you for giving me a shoulder and a place in your hearts. Thank you for the affection and love, the food, the human warmth that got me here. You are the family that I never had. I promise to come back and visit again, and always, my sisters I carry in my heart. Hugs, blessings, and much strength to you. Thank you for the Oasis of Peace. –C.
A ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province, since 1996.