I would be remiss if I did not start out this letter with a most sincere thanks. As my second year of being CEO of St. Louis Center comes to a close, there is much to reflect on and be thankful for. The large host of friends, advisors, and supporters who have come alongside me to offer their aid is truly incredible and much appreciated.
This holiday season, I would like to focus on the idea of embracing the mission at St. Louis Center. Whatever your connection with the Center may be, I hope that during this holiday season, you consider how you might embrace our mission. For myself and the other priests here, we are called by the words of Christ to care for those in need; you may have a different call to action when it comes to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Whatever it may be, I applaud you for your engagement in our mission.
I believe that every person, when presented with the opportunity to see the needs and the dignity of our residents, will embrace the work that we do here and appreciate how our residents have grown.
Living the Mission: Independence
A great example of personal growth is our resident Lee. Lee has called St. Louis Center home for many years now, initially living in a large home with more personalized care. Today, Lee is living in one of the small houses in our village that offers a more independent living experience; he has a job in the community and has grown to do so many new things since I have known him. Lee always brightens my day, and we joke a lot. He is a great example of what our community strives for with each of our amazing residents. This transformation does not happen by accident. It is built, day by day, through hard work, generosity from people like you, and the belief that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have beautiful gifts to share with the world.
Living the Mission: Community Connections
During these divisive times, community and connection are our greatest tools. Let us extend an invitation, welcome with open arms, and go out of our way to bring our neighbors closer.
Our residents do a wonderful job of connecting with our larger Chelsea community. Some of them go to school, and many of them hold jobs. For example, two of our residents, Lisa and Lee, are employed by the Chelsea courthouse doing various housekeeping tasks. We have a great relationship with the courthouse, and Lee and Lisa are great at making fast friends with everyone they interact with.
Another resident, Ken, works at the local McDonald’s. Ken is a joy to talk to. Though he is quick to tease you about being a troublemaker, he continually brightens the day of all he interacts with, coworkers and customers alike.
Living the Mission: Make an Impact
I urge you to learn from our residents, embrace the mission by going out of your comfort zone to connect with others. When people embrace one another, no matter what differences they may have, our community becomes a more welcoming and joyful place.
As we enter this sacred season, I ask you to stand with us once again. Thanks to a generous benefactor, every year-end gift will be matched—dollar for dollar—up to $100,000. This extraordinary opportunity means your support will go twice as far in helping our residents grow in independence, faith, and belonging. If financial giving is not in the budget for you at this time, we would love your support in other ways; come volunteer with your church or sports team, donate essentials, or just come for a tour of St. Louis Center. Here at the Center, we believe that if you come and see the work that is happening here, you will be forever changed.
Many Blessings,
Fr. Satheesh Alphonse, SdC
Your year-end gift will be doubled thanks to the $100,000 Matching Gift Challenge. Please give before December 31st so your generosity can make twice the impact!
Your donation in ANY amount gets us closer to meeting the match!
Donate by credit card, debit, or EFT using the online form below, or send a check to St. Louis Center 16195 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI 48118.
