Charity Works Fall 2016 by Catholic Charities of Denver

CHARITY

W RKS FALL 2016

INSIDE THIS ISSUE MARISOL: WOMENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SERVICES TRANSFORMED AND EXPANDED PG. 12 MAYOR, ARCHBISHOP PARTNER WITH SAMARITAN HOUSE FOR WOMEN PG. 14

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CHARITY

W RKS A refuge for women experiencing homelessness Larry Smith unveils plans for the new Samaritan House Women’s Shelter in northeast Denver. See PG. 14

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GIVERS AND RECEIVERS

Kansas volunteers see homelessness in new light

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MARISOL SERVICES

REGINA CAELI

A pregnancy decision is made real

Q&A: Interview with the director of clinical services

LARRY’S LETTER PG. 4 From the desk of the CEO CHARITIES ON THE MAP PG. 5 News from every region GIVERS AND RECEIVERS PG. 6 Kansas volunteers see homelessness in new light PICTURE THIS PG. 8 Speaking truth to the culture of moral relativism SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS MARISOL SERVICES: A Life Made Real PG. 10 MARISOL SERVICES: Expansion PG. 12 SHELTER AND HOUSING: Mom’s hope in others is restored PG. 16 RESPECT LIFE: Join the March to proclaim the joy of life PG. 18 REGINA CAELI: Q&A with Director PG. 20 EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE: Lending a hand in Baton Rouge PG. 22

Catholic Charities of Denver provides for the needs of the community along the Front Range in seven areas including shelter, affordable housing, early childhood education, Marisol Services (women’s services), counseling, parish outreach and senior services.

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT PG. 24 A volunteer’s heart expands A ROUND OF THANKS PG. 25 Parishes and people who gave ON THE CALENDAR PG. 26 A list of upcoming events, benefits and activities GETTING SOCIAL PG. 27 Highlights of the top social media posts online

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 3

LARRY’S LETTER

WE CAN CHANGE THE WORLD Our mission at Catholic Charities includes both the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. Yes, we help vulnerable women, children and men who are experiencing homelessness. In fact, we recently announced the Samaritan House Women’s Shelter, a 150-bed shelter for women that will open in northeast Denver in mid-2017. But we’re also about defending life from conception to natural death. Across the street from Planned Parenthood in Denver four years ago, a pregnancy resource center opened as a ministry of Catholic Charities. It’s now called Marisol Health, a medical center that provides life-affirming health care, counseling and human services. There’s another Marisol Health facility in Lafayette, and a student organization office on the campus of CU Boulder. There’s also Marisol Home to help provide a continuum of care to pregnant women who need a wide range of services—not just to give life to their children, but to have a life with their children. The Respect Life Office, which annually presents the Gospel of Life Conference, is also a part of Catholic Charities. Every first Saturday, at Prayer in the Square at six locations on the Front Range, we gather in public to pray a rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet. We also invite you to join us at the Celebrate Life rally and march at the Colorado State Capitol on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017. We need to live out our faith in public, praying for an end to the persecution of Christians around the world, and praying for an end to abortion. We need to share the truth with each other, and then take it out to the world. What an adventure, and what a privilege, to share the Gospel and live it out for one purpose: so that everyone will come to know Jesus Christ, to love him and serve him. You see, at Catholic Charities, we don’t serve everyone because they’re Catholic. We serve everyone because we’re Catholic. And when we all do that, we can change the world. God bless,

Larry Smith President and CEO of Catholic Charities

Charity Works is published quarterly by The Catholic Alliance for Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Denver, a 501(c)(3) established to serve those in need along the Colorado Front Range. As the charitable arm of the Archdiocese of Denver, and inspired by God’s love and compassion, Catholic Charities extends the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to the poor and those in need.

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High quality, cost conscious and faithful. Delivered to 80 percent of subscribers’ homes digitally. PG. 4

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

CHARITIES ON THE MAP

Catholic Charities is active in every region of northern Colorado. Below is a snapshot of the supporters, volunteers and staff who have shared the love, mercy and compassion of Jesus Christ along the Front Range.

FORT COLLINS Starting Nov. 1, The Mission shelter opened its first overnight emergency shelter for those experiencing homelessness during cold winter months. The Mission teamed up with the City of Fort Collins, United Way and Fort Collins Rescue Mission to expand the shelter available for individuals and families with children. GREELEY Construction is underway on Catholic Charitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; newest housing project called Guadalupe Apartments, a 47-unit permanent housing complex designed for the homeless and low-income households. Completion is expected in the summer of 2017. BOULDER The Respect Life Office held a prayer service Sept. 10 on the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children at Sacred Heart of Mary Parish. A crowd of 150 attended to pray for the unborn at the memorial garden and cemetery for the unborn.

LAFAYETTE AND DENVER The newly remodeled Marisol Health clinic locations held open houses in November. The community was invited to meet the medical clinic staff and learn about its expanded medical and social services to women of all ages. NORTHEAST DENVER CEO Larry Smith announced plans for a new womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shelter during an event Oct. 17 with Archbishop Samuel Aquila and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock. The shelter will offer 150-beds and comprehensive services to help serve homeless women. DOWNTOWN DENVER An estimated crowd of 500 people gathered at the state Capitol on November 5 for Prayer in the Square to sing and pray for the country in anticipation of the national election. The crowd also prayed the rosary for the protection of the unborn and innocent. CENTENNIAL More than 200 people attended the annual Gospel of Life conference at St. Thomas More Parish to listen to nationally-known speakers discuss how to confront the culture of moral relativism.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 5

GIVERS AND RECEIVERS

A group of volunteers serve meals for women at Samaritan House shelter in downtown Denver.

OPEN YOUR HEART PG. 6

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Visit ccdenver.org

‘Worth every second’ Kansans experience a conversion volunteering at Samaritan House

Despite fear of the unknown, a group of faithful Kansans came to the big city to help the needy. “This was the first time doing this from our community,” said Rick Binder, a farmer from Hays, Kansas, 340 miles east of Denver. “The group was excited— they couldn’t wait to help somebody.” But witnessing homelessness was a new experience for the volunteers who grew up in the rural community where “everything is nice, tidy and neat,” he said. Some had never seen a person living on the street. “It wasn’t that we were scared but more of this fear of the unknown,” said Christian Lutz, who works on a cattle ranch. “We’ve never experienced anything like this.” Binder had connected with Samaritan House shelter for a previous volunteer experience. He then gathered a group from his church, Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Hays, and organized a volunteer weekend in Denver that included serving women in the shelter, organizing the storehouse, and praying for life near Marisol Health. “We put together a spiritual map for our trip. We prayed on the way out,” he said. Their mission to love others was met with difficulty. Some women in the shelter seemed unappreciative and cold. The group felt they weren’t making a difference. After a few times of serving, the volunteers and shelter residents began to recognize each other, talk and laugh. “We were getting some hugs and exchanges for thanks,” Binder said. “A transformation took place in our hearts when we get to know each other as people and were ourselves.” He said they saw that loving others may not be met with gratitude or change— that’s ultimately up to God. However, their own hearts grew from the experience. “A conversion took place in our hearts,” Binder said. “It was a very real experience for us and that was the experience of our hearts. Our mission is to love the person God puts in front of us at every given moment of our lives to the best of our ability. It was worth every second. We will be back.”

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VOLUNTEER

Share your time and talents with the most needy in the community.

GIVE

Commit to a monthly donation to make a difference: $25, $100 or more!

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 7

PICTURE THIS

Speaking truth to the culture of moral relativism One of the most effective ways to discuss the Catholic faith is not to quote the Bible or Catechism of the Catholic Church. According to apologist Trent Horn, it’s to ask the right questions. “I try to teach people that to be successful at defending your faith, especially the moral teachings of the Church, you don’t need to have all the right answers, you just need the right questions,” Horn said. The sought-after apologist outlined his approach to evangelizing during a talk at the annual Gospel of Life Conference Oct. 22, hosted by Denver Catholic Charities’ Respect Life Office. Horn models the approach during the Catholic Answers Live weekly radio program when he dialogues with atheists, pro-abortion advocates and other callers. “Asking the right questions moves the conversation forward,” Horn said. “When you ask questions, it takes you out of the hot seat and puts you into the driver’s seat of the conversation.” Horn’s talk was one of a series at the conference that gave attendees the tools to discuss the faith in an often-relativistic society. Other speakers included Marilyn Coors, Ph.D., associate professor of bioethics at the University of Colorado; Dr. Edward Sri, renowned theologian at the Augustine Institute; and Jenny Kraska, executive director of the Colorado Catholic Conference. Read more online at ccdenver.org/charityworks.

Some 200 people attended the annual conference held to discuss issues about life from conception to natural death.

PG. 8

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Professor Ted Sri of the Augustine Institute in Greenwood Village shared insights on how to dialogue with relativists about morality and teachings of the Church.

Life

Gospel of 2016

Conference

Gospel of Life Conference by-the-numbers More than 200 attendees Marilyn Coors, an associate professor at the University of Colorado, discusses issues about bioethics during the conference.

4 nationally-known speakers 9 partner organizations sponsored booths

Find more information at

liferockymountains.org

The annual conference was attended by families, clergy, religious sisters and community leaders.

Trent Horn, apologist for Catholic Answers, speaks to a crowd gathered for the Gospel of Life Conference at St. Thomas More Parish in Centennial.

WHAT IS THE GOSPEL OF LIFE CONFERENCE? The Gospel of Life Conference is an annual event at which well-known speakers and Catholic leaders present information about the culture of moral relativism and share insights on defending life from conception to natural death. The conference is hosted by Catholic Charities of Denverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Respect Life Office.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

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MARISOL SERVICES

A LIFE MADE REAL PG. 10

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Justin Webber kept dialing pregnancy centers until someone would help him schedule an appointment. His girlfriend was planning an abortion that day, but he didn’t want to give up. “I knew that if I could get her in and get an ultrasound, and she could hear the heart beating on the ultrasound … that it would open her heart and she would feel the same way that I felt,” Justin said. “I called two places and they turned me down, because I’m the man and I’m not pregnant.” Marisol Health answered the phone next. Jenny Langness, program director, talked to Justin and scheduled an appointment for his girlfriend, Angela Anaya. “I answered the phone when Justin called and he was very concerned,” Jenny said.

Marisol Health

Angela was still struggling with the decision. In her late 30s and a divorced mother of four children, she didn’t want to start a new family.

3894 Olive St. Denver (303) 320-8352

“I just made the appointment with the doctor’s office to get an exam and take the pill that would have stopped the pregnancy from progressing and would cause me to miscarry,” Angela said. “In my heart, it didn’t feel right. It didn’t feel good. But logically it seemed like the right decision. All it meant was scheduling a doctor’s appointment and taking a pill.” She reached out to her friends and family who gave her conflicting advice. “I really struggled with that decision, and I knew that it was going to have to be mine,” Angela said. She agreed to go to Marisol Health in Lafayette—a Catholic Charities of Denver medical center—and have the ultrasound. The experience changed her and Justin—they heard their little girl’s heart beating. She never made her next appointment to receive a prescription for the abortion pill.

1285 Centaur Village Drive Lafayette (303) 665-2341 Have questions? Think you or someone you know may be pregnant? Call or text: 303-731-6130

Visit MarisolHealth.com

On Oct. 1, Analee Jaxyn Webber was born. Reflecting back, Angela said Marisol Health and the welcoming staff supported her through her doubts. She knew her pregnancy was no longer a “decision,” but a life. “It wasn’t just a logical decision. It was her life. Because she’s a real person,” Angela said. “I just get so emotional now, because I just think of how easy that would have been to just take those [two pills] and then she wouldn’t be here.” The two proud parents say they consider the staff at Marisol Health their friends. They couldn’t imagine life without Analee. “I look at her and she’s beautiful and I love her. I cannot even fathom not having her,” Angela said.

WHAT IS MARISOL HEALTH? Marisol Health embraces women and families with life-affirming medical care, counseling and social services. Its centers, located in Denver and Lafayette, are fully equipped to help women make important decisions about their reproductive health. Medical staff offer a truly positive experience in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 11

MARISOL SERVICES

MARISOL SERVICES EXPAND Catholic Charities transforms clinics to provide women comprehensive services

Catholic Charities opened newly remodeled medical clinics called Marisol Health to provide life-affirming and compassionate care for women and their families. The clinic locations in Denver and Lafayette were recently transformed to increase capacity and meet more women’s physical, material, emotional and spiritual needs through Catholic Charities’ continuum of care model. Catholic Charities of Denver CEO Larry Smith told Charities USA magazine in an interview that the new clinics are part of its approach to focus on women’s needs first. “Sometimes we forget,” Smith said, “that you have to help the woman before you can help the child that she’s carrying. And so that is our focus now, focusing on the woman first, meeting her where she is and helping her, and then we get to talk about her baby.” At the helm of Marisol Health is vice president Jan McIntosh who said the one-stop clinics offer women along the Front Range medical care, counseling and human services from conception to natural death. The services are offered at no cost or low cost for those most in need. “At Marisol Health, women and families in our community can access truly life-affirming and comprehensive medical services regardless of their ability to pay,” McIntosh said. “Our compassionate medical team and staff will help women where they are and in a way they’ve never experienced before.” Marisol Health is based on the unique continuum of care model that offers clients services at all ages and stages while leveraging existing resources in Catholic Charities’ women’s services, shelter and community outreach services, and family and children’s services in the Archdiocese of Denver. Medical services at Marisol Health are provided by Bella Natural Women’s Care and Family Wellness.

The staff of Marisol Health provide services through a network that offer women no cost or low services to help them live with dignity. Photo by Andrew Wright/Denver Catholic

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CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Marisol Home undergoes renovation If a mother finds herself with a new baby and without a home, Catholic Charities offers Marisol Home (formerly Fr. Ed Judy House). Opened in 2005, the home provides an extended stay option for women and children to transition into stable housing. The new home location near St. Bernadette School in Lakewood is undergoing renovations to accommodate more mothers and children through the Marisol Home program. Theresa Miller, then the children’s program and volunteer coordinator for Marisol Home, told Charities USA magazine that it is unlike any other program because it offers housing indefinitely, as long as families continue to work toward housing. “Often families would hop from shelter to shelter, so we opened to serve as an in-between for emergency housing and long-term transitional housing,” she told the magazine. Construction is expected to be complete in February 2017. Marisol Health’s locations were renovated to increase capacity and offer comprehensive medical services to women.

Marisol Health 3894 Olive St. Denver (303) 320-8352 1285 Centaur Village Drive Lafayette (303) 665-2341

Visit MarisolHealth.com

Marisol Health Denver East

Marisol Health Lafayette

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 13

SHELTER AND HOUSING SERVICES

Mayor, Archbishop, stand ‘shoulderto-shoulder’ with Catholic Charities Catholic Charities of Denver CEO Larry Smith unveiled plans for a new women’s shelter during an event Oct. 17 with Archbishop Samuel Aquila and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock. The leaders announced the new Samaritan House Women’s Shelter in northeast Denver. Through a partnership between the City and County of Denver and Catholic Charities, the shelter will offer 150-beds and comprehensive services to help serve the growing number of homeless women in the community. Mayor Hancock told a crowd of 80 gathered for the announcement that he’s proud of the partnership. “This new Samaritan House Women’s Shelter is now part of that multi-faceted approach that we are taking to serve and care for the most vulnerable among us, especially women experiencing homelessness,” Mayor Hancock said. “So I’m very proud to stand shoulderto-shoulder with Catholic Charities and the Archdiocese (of Denver) and to see this new service become a reality.” Catholic Charities purchased the building at 6240 E. Smith Road with the help of the city, which approved $1 million to assist in the purchase as part of the $5 million project. The 32,000-square-foot building will include 100 beds for emergency shelter and 50 beds for a 29-day transitional program. Single women will receive case management, counseling, hot meals and comprehensive services. Smith said it’s a privilege to serve women in need.

PG. 14 CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

From left to right, Denver Councilman Chris Herndon, Archbishop Samuel Aquila of the Archdiocese of Denver, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock and Catholic Charities CEO Larry Smith announced the new Samaritan House Women’s Shelter during an unveiling Oct. 17 in northeast Denver.

“We are dedicating this facility to serve them,” Smith said during the event. “As we say at Catholic Charities, we serve everyone—not because they’re Catholic—but because we’re Catholic. That’s what we are called to do.” Archbishop Aquila said it’s important to see Christ in the faces of the poor. “In every homeless person, we as Christians see the face of God and see their dignity as human beings,” Archbishop Aquila said. “Whether they are on the street corners asking for handouts; whether they are in our shelters; whether they sadly are strung out and laying on the street, we see Christ in them.”

SAMARITAN

HOUSE 30 YEARS OF

MERCY

Homelessness at-a-glance

6,130 homeless men, women and children counted in the 7 county Metro Denver area Of the 2,446 respondents in Denver County, 30.9% were female.

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SAM S JAM Source: Metro Denver Homeless Initiative’s 2015 point-in-time study

samhousedenver.org

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SAM S sUPPER — T H E M E A L T H AT S E R V E S M A N Y —

Plans for the new Samaritan House Women’s Shelter include 150-beds for emergency and extended shelter for single women who will be served through comprehensive services.

WHAT IS SAMARITAN HOUSE WOMEN’S SHELTER? Samaritan House Women’s Shelter will be the fifth shelter operated by Catholic Charities along the Front Range. The northeast Denver shelter for single women will offer 150 beds for emergency and extended shelter with comprehensive services. Catholic Charities administration offices will be co-located with the shelter. The shelter will open mid-2017.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 15

SHELTER AND HOUSING SERVICES

RESTORED HOPE When Jennifer walked toward the doors of Samaritan House with her two young girls, she started crying. “I just didn’t want to be there. It’s not where I wanted my girls. I felt like the worst mom,” she said. Jennifer first came to Colorado from Arizona to reunite her daughters with their father. When plans failed and money ran short, the father dropped them off at the downtown Denver shelter and tossed out their belongings. “It was very difficult,” Jennifer said. “You see all kinds of people sleeping on the streets and that’s not where you want your girls to think that’s a safe place to be.” In need of food and shelter, she entered Samaritan House’s four-month program for families. Jennifer had weekly meetings with a case manager, found clothing for her family and a good school for her two daughters. She also applied for affordable housing. The shelter’s family services supervisor, Rebecca Wiman, said the program gives families the tools to succeed and avoid falling back into homelessness. “We’re doing ground-level work to try and reduce homelessness in Colorado,” Rebecca said. “We’re providing the foundation for clients to succeed on their own. With our donor support, we can do immense things with families, with singles, with veterans, to hopefully end the cycle of homelessness.”

Jennifer’s two daughters sit outside Samaritan House shelter with their belongings. Jennifer was hesitant to seek help but later found hope through the shelter’s program. Photo by Jennifer

The experience changed Jennifer.

She said she has deep gratitude for Samaritan House.

“I saw how much the Samaritan House program helps people, and it made me believe again,” Jennifer said. “It restored my faith in humanity and gave me hope that it was going to get better.”

“They’ve given my daughters a chance at having something more substantial in their life,” Jennifer said. “Without this place, I don’t know where me and my girls would be. I just feel like there aren’t even enough words to say thank you for giving me my life back.”

PG. 16 CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

SAMARITAN

HOUSE 30 YEARS OF

MERCY

30 Years of Mercy Anniverary Event Rededication of Samaritan House Dec. 10, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Celebrate a rededication of the shelter with Archbishop Samuel Aquila.

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SAM S JAM samhousedenver.org

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SAM S sUPPER — T H E M E A L T H AT S E R V E S M A N Y —

Jennifer and her daughters are grateful for the love and compassion of Samaritan House.

MORE ABOUT SAMARITAN HOUSE Samaritan House is one of Catholic Charities four full-time shelters that provide shelter and short-term stay for men, women and families. Each shelter resident is matched with a case manager who helps them navigate the 120-day Levels Program. Each resident commits to goals that will help them obtain stable income and housing. CHARITY WORKS | FALL

PG. 17

RESPECT LIFE OFFICE

JOIN THE MARCH TO PROCLAIM THE JOY OF LIFE Thousands are expected to gather outside the state Capitol in downtown Denver for the annual Celebrate Life rally and march on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017. The pro-life rally and march has grown every year to include joyful youth, clergy and families who publicly proclaim the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. The Respect Life Office of Catholic Charities of Denver organizes the annual celebration that will include nationally known speakers. Come hear Abby Johnson, who quit her job at Planned Parenthood and became a pro-life leader. Also speaking will be dynamic youth leader and evangelist Chris Stefanick of Real Life Catholic. Masses will be celebrated prior to the rally and march. Make plans now to attend with family and friends. For more information, visit LifeRockyMountains.org

PG. 18

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Celebrate Life Rally and March Save the Date! Join thousands of people from the Rocky Mountain region in celebrating life! Saturday, January 14 Masses will be celebrated prior to the rally and march. March and Rally Colorado State Capitol 200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver Youth Rally St. Elizabeth of Hungary 1060 St. Francis Way, Denver For more information, contact Alexa Forster at 720-799-9299 or aforster@ccdenver.org. LifeRockyMountains.org

WHAT IS THE RESPECT LIFE OFFICE? The Respect Life Office champions Church teachings regarding the sanctity of life from conception to natural death. The office provides consultation toâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and collaboration withâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;parishes, as well as educational and healthcare institutions. It also presents life-affirming community events such as Prayer in the Square, Celebrate Life, and coordination with 40 Days for Life.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 19

REGINA CAELI CLINICAL SERVICES

Treating the whole person Charity Works interviewed Linda Montagna, the director of Regina Caeli Clinical Services, about its work to serve the community and its expansion this year to address more needs.

Charity Works: Some readers may be unfamiliar with Regina Caeli Clinical Services. Tell us more about how it serves the community.

Q&A

Dr. Linda Montagna: The focus of Regina Caeli Clinical Services (RCCS)

of Catholic Charities is to offer counseling and mental health services that are faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church and help restore families and parish communities. RCCS was created to serve individuals, families, and Catholic school communities. Broadly speaking, our services can be listed out under three categories: clinical psychology services (including mental health, substance use, and post-abortive services); school psychology services (we are currently in eight Catholic schools); and psychological assessments (including psycho-educational, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and religious vocational assessment). RCCS currently provides outpatient services in six locations along the Front Range, including our main office in Littleton, Denver, Northglenn, Boulder, Loveland, and Fort Collins. We have a staff that includes 16 clinicians. During a typical month we serve about 150 clients, and we have served more than 500 individual students in a month within the Catholic schools.

CW: Regina Caeli added a new counseling service. What is this new service and why is it needed?

Montagna: We recently added substance abuse counseling services, and can therefore now provide comprehensive

care for those who experience both mental health and substance abuse issues. Mental health and addiction issues do not respect any class or any socio-economic group. Persons experiencing such difficulties may struggle with homelessness, or may live relatively comfortably in the suburbs. When we take a comprehensive approach of addressing both mental health and addiction issues, we are more effective in getting to the root cause of our clients’ struggles and providing the best psychological treatment. If someone has a concern for themselves, or perhaps for someone in their family who they wish to help, they are welcome to contact us for a consultation.

CW: What approach do you and your staff take in counseling clients? Montagna: At RCCS, we treat the whole person. Specifically, we take a holistic approach to treating individuals, married

couples and families in the sense that we see individuals as both spiritual and embodied persons, created and redeemed by God, who possess an intellect, free will and an emotional life. Regardless of whether one is called to the priesthood, consecrated or marriage and family life, we acknowledge every person’s ultimate vocation to both receive and give love. Part of our job at RCCS is to remove the obstacles on a natural (psychological) level that may get in the way of living this call to love more fully. We view each of our clients—regardless of whether they practice the Catholic faith or any faith at all— as a person created with inherent dignity and in likeness of God. We care for them by integrating the best of psychological sciences with a Christian anthropology—an understanding of the human person—informed by the theological and philosophical teachings of the Catholic faith. All of our therapists agree to practice in accord with the teachings of the Catholic Church. That is particularly important to people who take their relationship with God seriously and want to know that this will be respected and seen as a strength to be built upon when seeking counseling.

PG. 20 CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Regina Caeli Clinical Services Main Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. (Please Note: phone messages are taken after 6:00 p.m.) To schedule an appointment, please call (720) 377-1359. Mailing Address: Regina Caeli Clinical Services 8 W. Dry Creek Circle, Ste. 206 Littleton, CO 80120 Services Overview: Clinical Counseling Catholic School Counseling Assessment Center

ccdenver.org/reginacaeli

Dr. Linda Montagna, Director of Regina Caeli Clinical Services

CW: What led you to work for Regina Caeli? Montagna: I’m originally from Pennsylvania, and I was introduced to

Catholic Charities here in Denver as I was completing my clinical training and post-doctoral residency prior to becoming a licensed psychologist. I was finishing a doctoral degree at a Catholic graduate program in Arlington, Virginia, the Institute for the Psychological Sciences (now known as Divine Mercy University). After working for another Catholic psychology practice in the Midwest, I received a call that Catholic Charities was seeking a clinical director. I joyfully accepted the position. For me, the mission of Catholic Charities is so compelling: inspired by the love and mercy of Jesus Christ, to bring healing to the poor and those in need. As a Catholic psychologist, it is a gift and privilege to be able to practice in a way that provides excellent psychological services while recognizing that Jesus Christ is the true source of all healing.

WHAT IS REGINA CAELI CLINICAL SERVICES? Regina Caeli Clinical Services is a service that provides counseling and mental health services faithful to the Church to help restore the family and parish communities. It provides clinical counseling to individuals, married couples, and families including post-abortive counseling; school counseling at eight archdiocesan schools; psychological assessments; and substance abuse counseling. Programs are focused on assistance regardless of income level or religious affiliation. CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 21

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE SERVICES

Denver duo lend hand in Louisiana flood recovery

Catholic Charities disaster response teams are quickly mobilized for recovery efforts, to include flooding in Baton Rouge, La. Photo by Catholic Charities USA.

PG. 22 CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

Two experienced disaster case managers traveled to Baton Rouge, La., from Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Denver to assist with flood disaster recovery efforts. Chip Leckway of Highlands Ranch—a former supervisor of disaster recovery case managers—and Kathy O’Day of Greeley—also a former disaster case manager supervisor—left for Baton Rouge on Aug. 28 to provide aid as Louisiana faced the devastation left in the wake of the flood. “We’re all human and need help at times,” said Larry Smith, CEO of Catholic Charities of Denver. “When there’s expertise in one area and there’s a loss in another, we need to respond. That’s the basis of the Catholic Church. We’re there for one another regardless of race, creed or background. When someone is in need, you’ve got to drop what you’re doing and help. That’s what Catholic Charities in Denver does now.” At Catholic Charities in Denver, Leckway provided direct supervision to staff of disaster recovery case managers and administrative assistants. Kathy O’Day worked as a Disaster Case Manager Supervisor from November 2008 through June 2016 for three large federally-declared disasters in Indiana and Colorado.

The St. Elizabeth of Hungary Giving Society honors donors whose calendar-year contributions reach $1,000 or more - or $83.33 per month. St. Elizabeth of Hungary (1207-1231) is the patron of Catholic charities. She devoted her short life and her financial resources to the improvement of the lives of the sick and poor. The daughter of the King of Hungary, she renounced her privileged life and worked to serve the less fortunate, creating such charitable institutions as a hospital for lepers and the first orphanage in Central Europe.

Kathy O’Day

Chip Leckway

The Society recognizes leading partners without whom Catholic Charities could not continue to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to people in need throughout the Archdiocese of Denver. Please join us!

ccdenver.org/donate

Photo by Catholic Charities USA

WHAT IS EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE SERVICES? Emergency assistance helps families and individuals facing a financial emergency, or who have been impacted by a disaster. Unexpected expenses can force a family on a limited income to choose between paying routine bills like rent and utilities or buying life’s basic necessities like food and life-saving medications.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL

PG. 23

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

Ron Cushing volunteers at Little Flower Assistance Center in Aurora where he finds reward in helping others.

For nearly a decade, Ron Cushing has volunteered with Catholic Charities. He says the experience has made his heart grow. “It’s what I am called to do,” said Cushing. “I have found tremendous reward in helping people. It’s made my heart bigger.” Cushing is a painter whose artwork has been featured in Hollywood productions and museums across America. Though he has found success as a painter, he often finds himself spending a majority of his time volunteering at the Little Flower Assistance Center. During the last four years, Cushing has taken an expanded volunteer role as a case manager at the Center, which provides referrals and resources to individuals to help meet basic human needs and achieve greater access to economic opportunities. His expanded role demands more of his time, but Cushing calls it the most rewarding work he has ever done. “Providing our clients with the help they need is very fulfilling and it not only helps them, but it helps us volunteers,” he said. The Christmas season offers many opportunities for volunteers. For potential volunteers, Cushing provided a little bit of advice. “Try it, you will find it is a great benefit to you and the community.”

Not a volunteer yet? There are many opportunities to help someone in need through Catholic Charities ministries. Visit ccdenver.org to find a list of opportunities in your community. Get involved today!

PG. 24 CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

A ROUND OF THANKS

Thank you to the more than 30 volunteers who participated in Xcel Energy Day of Service at our Samaritan House homeless shelter. The group of volunteers worked together to paint the family floor community room. The residents and staff love the new colors. Thank you for spending the time to help remodel our shelter.

Northern Colorado Catering and The Flower Corner helped to make a wonderful volunteer appreciation event in Larimer County. Northern Colorado Catering donated the food and The Flower Corner brightened the event with their donation of the beautiful flowers.

Shamrock Foods Company and their employees generously donated $10,000 to support Samaritan House homeless shelter. This donation will help provide many individuals with a warm place to sleep and hot meals.

The Golden Eagle Seniors have been crocheting beautiful blankets for children served by Catholic Charities. Each blanket is unique and paired with a stuffed animal. Thank you for bringing a smile the children we serve.

The United Way of Larimer Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Make A Difference Day a group of 20 volunteers gathered As part of

at The Mission shelter to paint, clean, and do the groundwork to help the shelter prepare for the upcoming winter season. A sincere thank you for helping us prepare for the changing seasons.

CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

PG. 25

ON THE CALENDAR

SAVE THE DATES December 10 Rededication of Samaritan House 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Samaritan House, 2301 Lawrence St., Denver. Celebrate a rededication of the shelter with Archbishop Samuel Aquila.

samhousedenver.org/event-calendar

January 14 March to Celebrate Life Colorado State Capitol, 200 E. Colfax Ave., Denver. Join thousands of people from all over the Rocky Mountain region in celebrating the dignity of life in all its ages and stages.

liferockymountains.org

January 28 Beacon of Hope Gala 4 p.m., Archbishop Samuel Aquila to celebrate Mass at Bishop Machebeuf High School, 458 Uinta Way, Denver. 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m., Wings Over The Rockies Air and Space Museum, 7711 E. Academy Blvd. Denver. Celebrate the joy of life at Marisol Servicesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; annual benefit dinner.

bohgala.org

PG. 26 CHARITY WORKS | FALL 2016

GETTING SOCIAL Follow Us: Insta

Advocates, donors, volunteers and clients share their gratitude and enthusiasm for Catholic Charities. Here are highlights of what they’re saying online.

We want to hear from you! Write a social media post about why you support Catholic Charities of Denver and use the hashtag #CharityWorks. Then look for the next issue Charity Works—your post may appear inside! – Social media team for Catholic Charities

PO Box 100728 Denver, CO 80250-0728

ccdenver.org

CHARITY

W RKS

PLEASE JOIN US!

Beacon HopeGala of

2017

Saturday, January 28, 2017

Please join us for an inspirational evening and celebrate with us the joy of life.

4:00 pm Private Mass

Celebrant: Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L. Bishop Machebeuf High School - School Gymnasium 458 Uinta Way, Denver, CO 80230

Gala Event

After Mass, proceed to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum 7711 East Academy Boulevard, Denver, CO 80230 Less than 1/2 mile from Bishop Machebeuf

5:30 pm - 6:45 pm | The Marketplace

Enjoy cocktails and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres while roaming the Marketplace

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm | The Gala & Live Auction Dinner and Program

Young Professional Lounge

21-30 years old Enjoy a hip, buffet-style menu with a view from the Mezzanine in a cool, fun lounge furnished by American Furniture Warehouse.

bohgala.org