A Message from Father Jack
Dear Staff and Families,
I wanted to write one more time before the holidays. On Tuesday, the 5th, we welcomed the Women’s League from the western suburbs. They are a wonderful group. Many of them have children who have made applications to us.
The next day, our Board President, Mary Dempsey, and I met with the COO of the Archdiocese, Betsy Bohlen. We continue to look at long-term plans for Misericordia.
On December 7, we had a very busy day. The Board of Directors met from 1 p.m. until 3:30 followed by the Board of Advisors. This was all followed by Mass for our major donors and a reception. It was a wonderful day for so many folks who believe so deeply in us. We are grateful to them all for their time, talent and treasure.
We also welcomed Kevin Knoll, who will serve as our Legal Counsel. Instead of having Misericordia always reaching to outside firms, Kevin will assist with contracts, employment issues and any other legal concerns.
We had another Holiday Brunch on that Sunday, December 10. Thousands came to enjoy their meal and entertainment as well as shopping. Hundreds came to volunteer to make it all work. Special thanks to Paul Schwartz for coordinating all of the volunteers, and to Jim Ahlfeld, Sammie Johnson and Kyle Rhone for coordinating all of the food. Thanks to all in the bakery who have worked tirelessly throughout this season.
On Saturday night we went to the “annual Misericordia” Varsity Basketball game at Loyola University. Thanks to the Ramblers for bringing in a big win!!! Thanks to the Athletic Department at the University for the buses to transport, the pop, pizza, tee shirts and all that was done to make a wonderful evening for so many residents.
The work at Rosemary Park continues, and a special thanks to Ashley Hespen who is coordinating much of the preparation. We keep praying that God will send us the staff to fill our ranks before this project can even think about opening.
This last Monday brought us a shopping night of folks from the Southside, we also celebrated Hanukkah with our Jewish residents and friends. Thanks to Andrew Blomquist and Kathy Morris from Ministry who coordinated the event.
Our successful Coat Drive ended last week. Special thanks for all the donations and to the Misericordia families, residents and staff who spent time folding and sorting winter clothing for families in need across the city.
On Wednesday we celebrated our Staff with Breakfast for the overnighters, two lunches for the day shift and dinner for the evening shift. We thank all of the staff, especially the kitchen, our management team and our family volunteers for making these meals happen. I also want to thank the Misericordia Family Association for their contributions to help with part of the Christmas/Holiday appreciation bonus. If the staff looks at their ADP Portal, you will notice that we handled the FICA taxes you would have owed as well on your bonus.
In addition to the appreciation bonus, I am delighted to share that everyone will receive a $0.50 an hour increase starting with the pay period that begins on 12/24/2023. This is the seventh increase in the last four years. Please know that we are doing everything we can to recognize your significant contributions that you make on a daily basis.
These last several weeks have also been times of farewell. We are sad to say that we lost Broadway Lester, a resident of McAuley. We also lost a number of parents, including Dr. Richard Griffin, Carol Vargo, Barbara Corcoran and Bob Gamboney. In addition, we lost long-time supporter and Women’s Board husband, Dr. Bob Vanecko and former parent, Mark Zuro. Thanks to Fr. Bart for helping us cover all of the funerals.
We also bid farewell to three long-time staff. Donna Zaida retired after 34 years as Nursing Secretary; Michael Diaz, CDS AVP, is leaving to take another position; and Bob Noga is retiring from the Food Service Director position. Bob has been here since this property was Angel Guardian Orphanage. We wish them all the very best in their new lives and thank them for their years of service.
I want to wish you all a happy and Blessed holiday season. Thanks to all the staff who will come in to work on the holiday.
God’s blessing on you all,
Fr. Jack