Albert and Haylie help to unload the van of food that was collected at the Center for the benefit of Faith in Action. Haylie Moran took on the role of Day Program Coordinator with a clear vision of creating a program that would not only engage the residents but also...
Letter from Fr. Enzo – Celebrating my Mother’s Life and Legacy, “Tu sei Enzo”
Fr. Enzo gives communion to his mother, Domenica, not long after becoming a priest. DOMENICA BALESTRA 1922 – 1998 “Tu sei Enzo” These were the last words I heard from my mother, Domenica, in the hospital the day before she passed away. Because of a stroke, she had...
Fr. Enzo’s Corner – 2022 Annual Report
Every organization has to bring into its existence innovation, in order to fight the law of entropy, and thus to be able to continue to exist and prosper. 2022 has been a year of graces and blessings. We give thanks to God for this. Fr. Joseph Rinaldo retired to a...
Randazzo Family: Combining Conviviality with Kindness
Nino and Sonny Randazzo with Fr. Enzo at the first Men's Social in 2015. In 2022, the Randazzo Family presented the 7th annual Men’s Social Fundraiser to benefit St. Louis Center at the “Best Fundraiser you’ll ever attend”. Hosted by Randazzo Fresh Market, the evening...
Fr. Joseph: A Legacy Lives On
Fr. Joseph enjoyed every aspect of working at St. Louis Center. Fr. Joseph Rinaldo’s dedication to serving those in need and his commitment to building communities of care demonstrates the impact that one individual can make on the world. His journey is a testament to...
Independence College Graduates
Jacqui and her roommates in Mike's House take turns preparing dinner each day with minimal staff guidance. Through their unwavering determination and grit, ten residents of the Center successfully completed a rigorous curriculum of classes offered by the Social...
Fr. Amal: Community Wellbeing
Fr. Amal and Keavan eagerly await Keavan's performance during the Christmas Program. For those who are living in care homes, having a sense of community and belonging is important for their overall well-being. It is not just about meeting their physical needs, but...
St. Louis Spirit Quarterly Newsletter – Spring 2023
Residents perform with Open Spot Theatre at St. Louis Center. Residents Prepare fro Farmer's Market People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) often face challenges when it comes to finding meaningful work and opportunities for community...
Programs – Having Fun at Home and Beyond
Ray, Carlie Hartwick, and Matthew enjoy snow cones together. Keeping the schedules of 55 people straight is no easy task. Rick Visel has been juggling the work and social calendars of the Center’s residents since 2010. He came to St. Louis Center looking to volunteer...
Fr. Guanella Village – An Integrated Neighborhood
Angela, on the right, with her coworkers at the Christmas Program. 10 years ago, St Louis Center had a vision—create an integrated neighborhood, where folks with disabilities and those who do not could live together and support one another. The planning for St. Louis...
Community Connection – a recap of community events of 2022
Lee, Linda Recca, and Ken at St. Louis Center's Trunk or Treat. Living in a vibrant city full of opportunities is a real blessing for the residents of St. Louis Center. Being part of the Chelsea community is essential for the residents of St. Louis Center. It provides...
Direct Care Worker Randy – going above and beyond for residents
Randy with Matthias at the Night to Shine dance Randy - A Light at St. Louis Center Randy Sietz, a fourth-year direct care worker, has become a beloved figure at St. Louis Center. He brings a brightness to the residents' day with his smile and caring demeanor as soon...