Originally published in the Summer 2021 issue of The Pulse.
What is your current ministry role and duties?
I have been at DCCH Center for Children and Families in Fort Mitchell, KY for 28 years. I started as principal of the on-site school, went into residential support when we opened a short-term unit, then I moved to foster care, and most recently into development. I am the assistant development director and one of my main duties is to connect with our constituents, including reaching out when someone has lost a loved one. I also help with the typical development office work-entering donations, running thank you letters, assisting with events. I try to help out wherever I can be of assistance to our staff and volunteers.
What is your favorite aspect of your ministry at DCCH?
This work supports our 40 residents and their needs, which includes therapy, clothing, and food, as well as the many other functions DCCH serves in the community.
I also enjoy contacting people in a friendly way and being able to offer my prayers and condolences to those whose loved ones have died. It is especially touching when I receive thank you notes back. So many people give what they can even if it’s broken up into smaller amounts each month. Our flea market has been closed for three months due to COVID. One of our longtime shoppers stopped by and gave a donation since she hasn’t been able to buy from the flea market. This is all for the good of our residents and the families connected to DCCH.
How would you say your ministry has impacted you?
Just seeing the dedicated people who support us and work with the kids on a continual basis has made me look at my own life. Seeing what I had compared to what our children have or don’t have today is very humbling. The physical or mental abuse they’ve suffered is something they deal with each day. Being there when they need somebody to reach out to them has helped me be a more compassionate person. This year has been hard because we don’t get as much direct interaction and not being able to do that is something I have missed.
What does it mean to be a Sister of Notre Dame in your opinion?
In today’s world, it’s being there for people, for anyone who calls the office even, assuring them of prayers, being that listening and compassionate person I feel I’m called to be. I am a quiet person and I don’t like being the person out front. I feel that I am someone there to help people, just behind the scenes.
I would like to make a note of appreciation for all the support and help many people have given to the Sisters of Notre Dame and to DCCH. It is greatly appreciated.