From The Desk of John T. Weldon, MSW, LICSW

Executive Director

July 2009

Dear Friend:

In June we saw three of our older youth successfully pass the MCAS exams and graduate high school.  Congratulations to Peggy, Mike, and Travis who received their education, caretaking, support, career training, and mentoring from many of our staff during their time at Saint Vincent’s.  We are extremely proud of them, and I am pleased to have the honor of sharing their success with you.

Milestones such as these are due in part to the support Saint Vincent’s receives from you, our donors, and the community – support that comes in all sizes and shapes…

• Since March we have been receiving regular donations from John Melo, owner of the local Dunkin’ Donuts franchises, his staff, and customers at the Elsbree Street, New Boston Road, Brayton Avenue, and President Avenue locations.  In fact, we’ve received 15 donations totaling $9,007.

• In mid-April we received a remarkable donation of decks of cards, therapeutic CD headsets, and $300 from Reid Latham.  Reid is not your typical 8 year-old when it comes to having a birthday party.  He decided to forego presents for himself, and instead wanted his birthday to result in gifts donated to the children of Saint Vincent’s.  Foregoing birthday presents so that children less fortunate could benefit from his special day is truly a selfless act of kindness and one that greatly benefits other children Reid’s age.

• Late June brought news of a $25,000 unrestricted grant for general operating support from the Jack Williams Endowment for Wednesday’s Child.  Jack, his wife Marci, and their Board have charged us with looking after Wednesday’s Children.

• Our Inaugural Kick-Off To Summer Celebration sponsored by Mechanics Cooperative Bank proved to be a tremendous success, raising $24,000.  Over 175 guests were greeted to a rainbow over the city, big band music, delicious food and complimentary wine provided by Lafrance Hospitality Company, a silent auction, and a beautiful sunset over the Fall River waterfront.  Proceeds will benefit our Life Skills Program which supports our older youth who are preparing for adult life through the development of skills necessary to complete their education, obtain meaningful employment, and live as productive members of society.

• And just last week we received the second installment ($5,000) of a five-year, $25,000 grant award from The TJX Companies Foundation.

Your generosity and kindness truly does come in all shapes and sizes, and directly benefits the children of Saint Vincent’s.  We recently bid farewell to someone whose kindness has contributed to 49 years of ministering to our children and families - Sister M. Lourdette Harrold, RSM.  Sister Lourdette holds one of the longest tenures of any of the Sisters of Mercy or any other staff member since the founding of Saint Vincent’s almost 125 years ago, and we wish her well in her retirement.

With the warm summer months finally upon us, the children are busy with Summer School studies and educational field trips to local museums and cultural attractions.  Thank you for believing in the work we do to bring them hope for a brighter future.

Enjoy your summer.   ~ Jack Weldon