“For me, Saint Catherine Center is a constant reminder about how we should love people for who they are, instead of judging them for who they’re not. The Center has maintained its focus on individuals’ capabilities rather than their disabilities, reminding each of us that we’re made in the image and likeness of God. It doesn’t matter how slowly one learns, as long as they’re encouraged to continue learning. I love the program. It’s inspiring, a noble cause. We’re blessed to have the Center in our Community.”
Steve Lewine, Supporter
Steve Lewine, Supporter
“Saint Catherine Center is an oasis of hope during these challenging times. To witness both the love the staff has for our children and adults and the love given back to them is truly a living Gospel. Supporting the mission of Saint Catherine’s is more than something nice to do; it is accepting the call of Christ to bring a love that is unparalleled in the world today. Every gift reminds one of our students or young adults that they truly are special and loved!”
Msgr. Robert Weiss, Board Member
Msgr. Robert Weiss, Board Member
“When we first came to tour the Center, we were struck by how different it was from other places we had seen. We knew this was “the place” for Jessie. Our only concern was whether she would be able to participate sufficiently and “fit in.” We were quickly reassured during her transition and early period by how dedicated Helen and the staff were to really getting to know Jessie and us. They focused on how to make her feel comfortable, happy, engaged and ready to fully participate in all the opportunities at the Center. She reviews the monthly schedule and looks forward to all the activities—swimming, bowling, music, art, theater, gym, field trips to the zoo, and movies, as well as life skills, shopping, making meals, and projects with her new friends.
The richness of her environment is not the most important part, however. More important than anything else is the outstanding character of all of the people who make up Saint Catherine’s. They are truly a gift from God to these special children and their families. Their love, patience, insight, and dedication cannot be taught, but it can be modeled and encouraged, and that is what Helen and her staff does. We are so grateful to have them in our lives and appreciate their willingness to share themselves with Jessie and us. Jessie looks forward to going to Saint Catherine’s every day and especially loves the extra opportunity to dress up and attend the dinner dances provided by the Center. She has been able to make connections and share things with her friends that she could not do previously.
We thank God that we found Saint Catherine’s and all the angels who work there.”
Richard Zangrillo and Michelle Rivelli, Parents
“When you walk into the halls of Saint Catherine’s, the first thing you notice is the smile on the face of each staff member and each participant. The warm atmosphere is one of encouragement and patience. The mutual respect among the staff and the participants is immediately evident from their interactions.
Owen gets up each morning, excited to be with ‘his people’ at Saint Catherine’s. He has found his place, in this loving and supportive environment. The well-selected and well-trained staff are genuinely fond of him, as Owen can recognize, and that knowledge gives him the self-confidence he needs to expand his world. He looks forward to music, yoga, pizza day, and numerous trips out into businesses in the community to do volunteer work. He feels useful and valued.
We know the teamwork of the impressive staff members, under the very thoughtful and capable guidance of Helen Burland, is not only going to keep our son safe, but is going to keep him happy and engaged and eager to be a part of something bigger then himself. Owen feels a sense of belonging at Saint Catherine’s. It is a beautiful thing to witness.
We are grateful to the dedicated staff members who come to work each day determined to make a difference in the lives of the participants. They do that joyfully, and more. They gift the parents of these very loved participants with peace of mind and hope. As a parent, there is no greater gift we could receive. We love Saint Catherine’s!”
Margaret and Dan Smith, Parents
Owen gets up each morning, excited to be with ‘his people’ at Saint Catherine’s. He has found his place, in this loving and supportive environment. The well-selected and well-trained staff are genuinely fond of him, as Owen can recognize, and that knowledge gives him the self-confidence he needs to expand his world. He looks forward to music, yoga, pizza day, and numerous trips out into businesses in the community to do volunteer work. He feels useful and valued.
We know the teamwork of the impressive staff members, under the very thoughtful and capable guidance of Helen Burland, is not only going to keep our son safe, but is going to keep him happy and engaged and eager to be a part of something bigger then himself. Owen feels a sense of belonging at Saint Catherine’s. It is a beautiful thing to witness.
We are grateful to the dedicated staff members who come to work each day determined to make a difference in the lives of the participants. They do that joyfully, and more. They gift the parents of these very loved participants with peace of mind and hope. As a parent, there is no greater gift we could receive. We love Saint Catherine’s!”
Margaret and Dan Smith, Parents
“Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs has been an ideal fit for our son Gus. The transition from our local high school’s “launch program” to an adult day services program was stressful for both Gus and us. We had only known our local school system which, over the years, had come to know Gus’ particular needs and provided a network of supports. We looked at several programs but most seemed too vocational for Gus’ abilities. And then Saint Catherine’s found us! The program is the perfect mix of nurture, individual care, and meaningful engagement in the surrounding community.”
Gus works at a garden center, loves bowling, swimming, and taking nice walks. He really feels part of something special and studies the schedule every day. He is happy, engaged, and continues to grow, surprising us often with new skills and small victories. Vicky and I are gratified and impressed by the support structure of the Diocese, very involved board members, and the many supporters of Saint Catherine’s mission.
The day-to-day staff, Helen, and the team do a fantastic job. They live the core values they espouse. In particular, their respect of the dignity and diversity of each person and the focus on the total well-being of each individual really comes through. Gus is happy and loves to go to his ‘college.’ As a result we are happy and thankful for everyone at Saint Catherine’s.”
Tom & Vicky Reynolds, Parents
“Compassion calls us to care deeply for all or our brothers and sisters. At Saint Catherine Center you witness true compassion at the deepest level. The students and young adults exhibit kindness unconditionally and live courageously. Their family members take the words ‘commitment’ and ‘selfless dedication’ to the highest level. The staff live a vocation, giving of themselves every day.”
The Valerie Ann Luff Foundation
The Valerie Ann Luff Foundation