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.
Michael started his career in the Marian Center in Apartment 101 on the PM shift. It was there that he developed his passion for working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From there, he moved onto the Village where he became the Miniat QIDP for several years. As Michael grew, so did his skillset. He was then promoted to Village director and then Assistant Vice President of Community Day Services.
Michael's contributions are vast and we are grateful for all that he has done during his tenure. He helped successfully lead CDS through the Settings rule and has been a strong advocate for our residents down in Springfield through IARF, where he served on the board.
We wish Michael the best in the next chapter of his career and we thank him for his many years of service.
Misericordia is once again providing space for the local Alderman to host a job fair for refugee immigrants. 30 employers, including Misericordia, will offer employment opportunities for an expected 400 attendees. The event will be held Thursday, January 25, 2024 in the Jean Marie Ryan Center
Eight volunteers are needed:
Speaking Spanish is a big plus, so if you do, we need you. Volunteers will be registering employers and attendees.
Please click here to review the available slots and sign up. Thank you!
Dear Families and Staff,
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Mine was nice but different this year without my sister. Thanks to all who prepared the celebrations for our residents who did not go home. Thanks also to all of the volunteers who came to help with the brunch on Thanksgiving morning. A special thanks to all of the staff who gave up family time to be here with our residents.
Shopping and meals continue as part of our fundraising efforts for the holidays. Thanks to Judy and Nancy in the gift shops and to all volunteers who got everything ready and worked at every event. We welcomed our Women’s Auxiliary, the Women’s Board for lunch and the Illinois Catholic Women’s group – great shoppers one and all. Special thanks to the Kitchen and Bakery staffs, to Housekeeping, Maintenance and all who helped to make these events happen.
by Barb Quaintance
The holidays are a magical time at Misericordia. The decorations, the music, the sweet smells coming from the bakery, the holiday brunches, the excited residents. A very important part of making the magic happen are the volunteers who give their time and talent to Misericordia.
Did you know…
by Linda Buchalo
There are many times that I truly appreciate Misericordia, but Saturday Mass is one occasion when I always feel grateful that my son, Andy, lives here. The entire ceremony is a testament to all that is good in the Misericordia community. This article is my personal story of the two reasons why this liturgy has so much meaning for me.
As a child, going to church was something I tolerated because I wasn’t given an option. I didn’t really learn to appreciate the Mass until I was older and began to understand more about the faith that I had always practiced. Andy has always been tuned in to liturgy. Many times, when I was cross or impatient with him, he reminded me what the priest said at his homily. If the presider skipped over a word or even a prayer, Andy would be sure to bring it up after Mass. He always looks forward to going to church. One of my concerns for Andy was finding a place where he can attend Mass, grow in his faith, and continue to participate in something that is very important to him.
On Friday, November 10, our Women’s Auxiliary held its Home for the Holidays cocktail party. It was a beautiful event, raising much funds for Misericordia. Kudos to the Foundation staff, the Kitchen staff, IT and Housekeeping. You did a wonderful job. The event was also a reminder of how many young adults are on our waiting list. These families are so anxious for services for their loved one. We are doing all we can to be ready when there are beds available.
On Sunday morning, November 12, our CILAs put on their talent show. It was truly delightful. It is amazing how talented our residents are with the help and direction of the wonderful staff, Bravo!!!
by Barb Quaintance
Basketball. Bowling. Track and field. Softball. Aquatics. Soccer. Floor hockey. Volleyball. Bocce. Rhythmic gymnastics. Golf. Snowshoeing. Powerlifting. Tennis. MATP (Motor Activities Training Program).
Whew! Those are the Special Olympic sports in which Misericordia athletes participate. Some are team sports, some are individual sports, but they are all very special for these special athletes.
The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Special Olympics gives them ongoing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with other Special Olympians and their families. Athletes must be eight years or older and have an intellectual disability. There is no upper age limit. Wheelchair athletes also participate in sports such as track-and-field, bocce, wheelchair racing and bowling.
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