Dear Friends,

Since becoming CEO of St. Louis Center one year ago, my appreciation of the importance of teamwork has grown. Teamwork – working with others to accomplish a common goal – does not just take place on a sports field. I have played soccer my entire life, and this has shaped my leadership abilities, including communication, strategy, and team-building. A talented striker might score a goal, but they cannot accomplish anything sustainable without their teammates. Together we make the biggest difference.

I have been blessed by strong team members throughout my life. Growing up, my family worked together. As my parents were building a business, my siblings and I grew close as we kept one another accountable, as team members should. The business prospered, as did my family. To this day, my siblings and I still work as a team, supporting one another from India, Dubai, and the U.S.

Between 2002 and 2006, I taught seminarians in Chennai and Cuddalore, India. Little did I know then that I was beginning to form what would become my St. Louis Center team. I was transferred in 2006 to the U.S., and ten years later, three of my students joined in caring for the residents of St. Louis Center. I am joyful because Fr. Franklin, Fr. Amal, and Fr. Leo are part of my team, as is Fr. David.

As I go about my daily work as CEO, I am continually reminded that we are meant to do this important work together. No single person, no matter how charismatic, energetic, or intelligent, can do it all by themselves. During this time of generosity and thanksgiving, I look towards my staff and am encouraged by their consistent support and how they serve the residents with joyful hearts. This is evident everywhere and in everyone, from the direct care staff to my fellow priests.

Lastly, I thank YOU for being part of our team. Because of your inspiring, reliable support, we are able to do life-changing work. I am excited to announce that we have several programs starting in 2025. One is the return of Curiousor Clay, which allows the residents to work creatively, developing fine motor skills and sculpting beautiful ceramic art. On the horizon is a new daytime Memory Care program for adults with I/DD who are aging and showing signs of memory loss. This highly specialized program will help them live their fullest, most independent lives.

I would be remiss if I did not mention an amazing opportunity we have this Christmas season. A generous donor will match all donations, dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $100,000. We are overjoyed with this prospect and hope you will consider doubling your impact and donating today.

As Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Thank you for empowering our team to do the Lord’s work. Our team prays and thanks God for you each and every day.