Annual Report 2012-2013

Mission Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women is a home dedicated to safety and dignity for a diverse

community of women who are empowered to begin new and productive lives.

A ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province, since 1996.

Our •

From Sarah’s Director:

At a time of transition in seasons, the world, and our lives, our feet pass over

many stepping stones along the journey. We are in motion and trying to settle

on firmer ground. As we struggle to keep our foothold, it seems a challenge to

pause and “smell the roses” along the path. But it is important to enjoy all the

moments in life and be fully present in those moments. Our 2013 Annual Report

is one of those moments when we pause with joy and gratitude to reflect on our

journey of the past year.

Sarah’s staff and residents hope that you will enjoy reading this annual

publication. We know you will celebrate the many accomplishments of women

who have lived here in 2012-13. This publication is also a tribute of thanks to

those whose generosity has come from their pocketbooks, hearts, and

toolboxes of skills and energies towards accomplishment of Sarah’s mission.

You make such a difference in the lives of women at Sarah’s!

For those of you who have followed Sarah’s for years you know that we typically have had a print publication in the

spring and that last year we added a printed report in the summer. We’ve combined these two for a summer annual

report. We will continue to bring you quarterly updates via email. As always, we encourage you to let us know the

best way to communicate with you about Sarah’s (by email, mail, or social media). Again, thank you for all that you

do. May peacemaking prevail on Earth today!

Cheryl Steeves

Director, Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women

Mantras . . . “You come to Sarah’s in order to leave.”

• “You are a good woman.”

• “May peacemaking prevail on Earth today.”

• “You can do it!”

• “Sarah’s will always be your home.”

• “One lesson at a time. One woman at a time.

One day at a time.”

Kristine Brelje, Advisory Council Member

It’s an honor to be in community with this incredible

ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph. The women

at Sarah’s have tremendous courage and strength

in how they rebuild their lives. Even further, I am

humbled by the depth of the human kindness of

the staff, Sarah’s supporters, and friends who

lovingly illustrate to the women,

“We walk hand-in-hand with you every day.”

Kristine Brelje

Mary Hunt, Chair, Sarah’s Advisory Council

It’s my pleasure and honor to begin my term as chair of Sarah’s Advisory Council as we share this annual report

of the remarkable work being done at Sarah’s by the residents, staff, and volunteers. This ministry of the Sisters

of St. Joseph and Consociates boldly exemplifies the community’s commitment “to act for justice and to walk with

suffering people” and to address issues “…which demean or deny human dignity…” The women who come to

Sarah’s in great need transform their lives, step by step, as they prepare to re-enter the wider world with renewed

skills, strength and spirit.

We are all indebted to the commitment and leadership of Cheryl Maloney in the

role of SAC chair these past four years. Cheryl’s expertise in the world of non-

profit leadership, combined with her passion for the many issues faced by the

women of Sarah’s, has been invaluable to the organization itself, as well as to

the Advisory Council. Thank you, Cheryl, for your dedication and support!

Our Advisory Council supports the residents and staff through the members’

individual expertise and connections by partnering with organizations, helping with

events and fundraising, and sharing the stories and successes of Sarah’s in the

broader community. This past year we have also worked with staff and other

contributors to create a new strategic plan to guide our efforts over the next three

years. The plan focuses on our core work of serving the women of Sarah’s,

enhancing awareness and fundraising, honoring the CSJ legacy, and finding new

ways for the Advisory Council to be effective.

If you are inspired by what you read in this Annual Report, I encourage you to contact us to learn more about how

you can be a part of the mission and work of Sarah’s. Opportunities abound!

With gratitude for your support,

Mary Hunt

“From Sarah’s, I got confidence; I got to accomplish my dreams.”

- Former Sarah’s Resident 2012

Accomplishments of Sarah’s Residents Education and Training All women who live at Sarah’s are employed or attending school, and some residents do both. Nine of our residents are either in process or have completed a job training program. Twenty-nine of Sarah’s residents are currently in school. Twenty-three attend English language classes, and six are in enrolled in college.

Legal, Housing, and Transportation Several of our residents at Sarah’s were able to obtain an immigration attorney, prepare for immigration proceedings, apply for asylum, and apply for permanent residence. Additional legal assistance included paying taxes, filing for divorce, and filing for an order for protection. Sarah’s residents use public transportation; however, a few are able to buy/lease a car or get one from a relative or friend. We also encourage bike riding whenever possible. Determining transportation needs, as well as budgeting for transportation, is part of the goal-setting process at Sarah’s. Additionally, eighteen months is the expected amount of time that residents will live at Sarah’s. When they arrive, none of Sarah’s residents have any other safe housing options or qualify for any other housing program.

Cost per month for one resident at Sarah’s: $750

• Household Supplies $35

• Food $80

• Utilities $175

• Transportation $55

• Building and Grounds $405

Health and Family This year, five women worked on reuniting with their families. Sarah’s provides phone cards, legal referrals, and other support to facilitate t he reunification process, which can sometimes be stressful. Health issues addressed here at Sarah’s include the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of each resident. We work to ensure that every woman has access to the care and support she needs to reach her health-related goals. These goals include obtaining health insurance, exercising, addressing trauma-related issues, having eye exams, getting glasses, and receiving dental and medical care.

Work and Employment Eighteen of the residents at Sarah’s are working either full- or part-time jobs. Eleven of our residents volunteer their time outside of

Sarah’s, and one woman volunteers as Resident Staff at Sarah’s. Those who are able are asked to contribute toward their living expenses at Sarah’s. The average living expense paid per resident was $150.00 per month. This covers approximately 20% of the total monthly cost for one resident at Sarah’s.

“I have lived at Sarah’s for five months. I go to school during the

day, and I work to pay bills to send my family support.”

- Current Sarah’s Resident

Life at Sarah’s In addition to housing, community and safety, Sarah’s provides residents with opportunities to

develop life skills. New residents complete a survey assessing experience with life skills that are

needed. Then, a strategy for developing skills is incorporated into each woman’s goal plan. Many

times, it is the staff here at Sarah’s who mentor women in these areas, including: resume writing

and employment, budget planning and banking, cooking and food planning.

Some of the life skills that the residents of Sarah’s are working on are:

• Sustainable living

• Make/Follow a budget

• Use public transportation

• Finance

• Care for garden/yard

• Recycle

• Compost

• Cultural transition

• Cook/set table

Some of the goals for the residents at Sarah’s include:

• Obtaining education

• Learning English

• Feeling safe

• Obtaining employment

• Gaining access to healthcare

• Reuniting with family

• Community building

• Learning to drive

• Developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

• Finding permanent housing

From a Current Resident, 2013

I have been in the USA for one year. I have been at Sarah’s for almost five months. I decided to come here because I needed a

peaceful place to live. I want to rebuild my life at Sarah’s. Being at Sarah’s so far, I see a dramatic progress in my life. I am improving

my English: speaking, writing and reading. I attend college readiness at the International Institute of Minnesota to get ready for

college this fall. Staying at Sarah’s, I have to do my household chores and also care for and share with others.

I have also learned a lot of things from the women, and I am integrating into the new culture.

Every Wednesday we have dinner and eat together. It’s a big family that cooks, shares and eats

food from different countries together. Overall, I hope to accomplish my goal, which is to go to

college. I find peace, joy, safety and hope at Sarah’s. I am so grateful to all staff members for their support

and help (physical, mental and spiritual).

About Sarah’s Services

Safe and reliable housing is just the first step on each resident’s journey toward a new life.

Residents receive referrals and on-site support, which enable them to build the connections and

confidence they need to independently take steps toward their goals. Sarah’s refers women to

volunteer and paid employment opportunities, job search services, health and insurance services,

legal services, permanent housing, and education and training opportunities. Below are some of

the service organizations with whom Sarah’s collaborates. This community-based model ensures

that women from Sarah’s are empowered with the skills they need to advocate for themselves.

Permanent Housing &

Social Services

Bridging

Center for Victims of Torture

CommonBond

Dress for Success

Hennepin County Medical Center HousingLink.org

International Institute

of Minnesota

Minnesota Council

of Churches

Minneapolis Public Housing

Ready for Success

Joseph’s Coat

St. Paul Public Library System St. Paul Public Housing

Work Placement, Income,

& Financial Services

Center for Victims of Torture

Family Means

Hennepin County

International Institute of Minnesota

Jewish Family Services

LifeTrack Resources

Midwest Careers Institute

Minnesota Work

Force Center

Ramsey County

St. Paul Public Library System

WISE Transportation

Cycles for Change

Metro Transit Discount Pass

Education/Training/Volunteering

Council on American-Islamic Relations American Red Cross

Carondelet Village

Century College

Goodwill/Easter Seals

Hubbs Center, St. Paul Schools

Hubert H. Humphrey Job Corps

International Institute

of Minnesota

Lehmann Center

LifeTrack Resources

Lincoln Center

Metro State University

Midwest Careers Institute

Minnesota Literacy Council

St. Paul College

Health

Hennepin County Medical Center Institute of Himalayan Tradition HealthEast-St. Joseph’s Hospital

Lens Crafters-Gift of Sight

Minnesota Care

Open Cities

Places of Worship / Sarah’s Chapel

Portico HealthNet Insurance

Regions Hospital

Wisdom Ways Center for Spirituality

St. Mary’s Health Clinics

Women’s Drum Center

Friends and Volunteers of Sarah’s

Legal Services

The Advocates for Human Rights Attorney friends of Sarah’s

Bridges to Safety

Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota

International Institute of Minnesota

Lutheran Social Services

Southern Minnesota

Regional Legal Services

Volunteering at Sarah’s Sarah’s currently has over 20 people who volunteer in

and around our home on a regular basis. Additional

volunteers participate in special events or programs.

Sarah’s is also a host location for the St. Joseph Worker

and the Ignatian Volunteer programs, and we are

deeply enriched by their dedication to the mission and

work of Sarah’s. There are many opportunities for

individuals or groups to become more involved in the

life of Sarah’s. We are grateful for all our volunteers!

Mary Himrod, Ignatian Volunteer My name is Mary Himrod and I am an Ignatian Volunteer.

As an Ignatian Volunteer, I commit to volunteering at least

thirty-two hours each month. My volunteer area is

Sarah’s... an Oasis for Women, and I have been a

volunteer at Sarah’s since November, 2012. I am older

than any of the women here at Sarah’s including staff

members; so, I feel very grandmotherly most of the time--

but not a bossy grandmother, I hope! My role is to be

present for the residents, and provide assistance with the

upkeep of our beautiful home. You will find me watering

plants, baking cookies, organizing closets, having tea with

the women, and engaging in other tasks that the staff may

need completed. When I have an opportunity to visit with

the women, we share the memories of our youth. They

were surprised that I milked cows while I was a teenager.

They were more surprised that a young girl would milk

cows in America. At Sarah’s, we take care of each other.

When I am dusting and I need a ladder, the women want

to do it for me so I don’t fall. They are generous when

preparing their meals and usually invite me to join them.

They are so hospitable. I love them very much, and I love

volunteering at Sarah’s!

Akudo Omeoga,

St. Joseph Worker At the beginning of my time at Sarah’s, I was excited to work with

women who have experienced trauma within their lives. I was

fresh out of college; I was young and ready to conquer the world,

I didn’t really think about how I would be affected doing advocacy

work. As the St. Joseph Worker, I have learned many life lessons

about resilience, self-worth, and happiness. I have had the

opportunity to work alongside women who are rebuilding and

strengthening their lives to be more stable and secure. I have built

bonds with the women, staff, and volunteers. To be enclosed within

the walls of Sarah’s is a blessing; I have found here hope, home,

healing, and above all, friendship.

“I feel happy with the caring and warm love of the people at Sarah’s.”

- Current Sarah’s Resident

Sarah’s Supporters Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women is part of the CSJ Ministry Collaborative, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Sarah’s is funded through the support of foundations, corporations, individual donors, and the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province. The financial support of all our donors ensures that Sarah’s is able to provide life skill development for the self-empowerment of women.

Individual Donors

Abebech Haile

Adey Belay

Amanda Skorich

Angela Anodebe

Anne & Charles Leck

Ayoko Foli

Barbara & Timothy Ryan

Bernadette M. Judd

Beth Carlson

Betty Inserra

Beryl McHale

BIrhane Mussa

Bonnie Wertz

Brunhilder Fnu Ngwish

Carol & Brian Breuss

Carolyn Glueckstein

Catherine Fitzpatrick

Cathy Hickman

Cecilia Jaisle

Cheri Bunker

Cheryl Ann Hess

Cheryl Maloney

Chris Andres

Connie Slipka

Cristeen Custer

Current Residents of Sarah’s

Debra & Keith Miner

Donna Murphy

Elizabeth Inserra

Emebet (Mimi) Gebremeskel

Erik & Karen Jothen

Evan Creed & Johanna Hatch

Heather Tracey

Helen Dehen

Hercules & Wendy Muehlberg

Janis & Leo Dehler

Jean & William Pociengel

Jenna Guggisberg

Jenny Kelly Jill Reilly Joan Wittman

Joe Lineweaver

Joseph & Mary Beth Boyle

Josiah Swanson

Joyce Humboldt

Julie Goldstein

Karleen Reller

Kate Weyrens

Kathleen Brenner

Kathy Sallee

Katie Zarbock

Kimberly Anderson

Kristine Brelje

Lauren & Edith Davies

Loretta & Andy Kimmet-Mobley

Maeze Kifle Mariam

Marcia & Richard Reardon

Margaret L. Kvasnicka, CSJ

Margaret Pharris

Marie Damien Adams

Marie Scott

Marie Theresa Belanger, CSJ

Marilaurice Hemlock Martha Phillips

Mary Beckfeld

Mary Hunt

Mary Jane Doll

Mary Joyce Flesche

Matthew Chapman Meg & Mark Wilkes Karraker Michael Donahue & Bonnie Wek Michele Garnett McKenzie Michele Nelson Nicholas & Joyce Olsen Nue Nu Pat Behrent Philip Byrne

Philip & Juliana Ledermann

R.E. Syverson

Rachel & Nathan Hanson Rebecca Dobias Renee Crepeau Renuka Jayatunge Richard Syverson Ruth Ryan Sharon Loftsgaarden Sharon Manns Sherry Bartells Susan & Daniel Bembenek Susan Cotten Susan Weberg Thelma & Chuka Obah Theresa Chasar Tracy E. Farr Virginia McCain William Hennig, in honor of Carol Neuburger, CSJ Yodit Fekadu Ayalew

Organizations & Corporations

Sarah’s extends a special “Thank You” to the following for their extraordinary gifts of time, talent, or support.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Community Relations Celeste’s Dream Immigrant Law Center Edina Realty Foundation Expo Elementary School

Highland Park Women’s Club

Otto Bremer Foundation

Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet,

St. Paul Province

Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province Justice Commission

Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province Ministries Foundation

Soroptomist International of the Twin Cities

St. Catherine University Target Foundation

Ten Thousand Villages

The Patrick & Aimee Butler Family Foundation

University of St. Thomas, in honor of Pat Alexander

University Advocates for Women and Equity, University of St. Thomas Women of Wealth

Sarah’s annual report graphic design donated by Nicholas Germano III nick@nickgermano.com

9 Hole Women’s Golf League, Minneapolis Golf Club Altrusa International of St. Paul Baya Clare, CSJ

Bernice Caruth (Shaklee)

Betty Zehringer

Breadsmith

Brenda Mulry

Carondelet Center

Cheri Bunker, Women’s Drum Center

Cheryl Maloney

Christina Casey

Dan (Klecko) McGleno

Elk River Lutheran Church Evelyn Lennon Gloria Lindquist Jennifer Tachney

Joe Lineweaver

John Hartman

Jonette Kreideweis

Kathy & Denny Getten

Kim Fullmer

Kristine Brelje

Lisa Moriarty (Paths of Peace) Lisa Wright Margaret L. Kvasnicka, CSJ

Mary Beth Boyle Mary Hunt Mary Sutherland Meg Wilkes Karraker Meredith Leary Johnson Michele Garnett McKenzie Minnesota Council of Nonprofits Natalie Robinson Native Oaks Farm (Anne & Charles Leck) Pat Alexander Russel Travis Sarah Beman Sr. Lucy Bruskiewicz, SSJ, TOSF Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province Soroptomist International of the Twin Cities St. Catherine University Activities Team Yarn Tamers & Luann Dummer Center for Women; University of St. Thomas Tracy E. Farr Susan Smith, CSJ Trader Joe’s Twin City Graphics & Printing (Nick Germano) Wachen Anderson Wisdom Ways Center for Spirituality

Sources of Funding for Sarah’s

Sarah’ s. . . an Oasis for Women Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet 1884 Randolph Ave. St. Paul, MN 55105

Thank you for giving me a shoulder and a place in your hearts. Thank you for the affection and love, the food, the human warmth that got me here. You are the family that I never had. I promise to come back and visit again, and always, my sisters I carry in my heart. Hugs, blessings, and much strength to you. Thank you for the Oasis of Peace. –C.

A ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province, since 1996.

651-696-8699 Info@SarahsOasis.org www.SarahsOasis.org