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FRIENDS OF KIDS WITH CANCER

Smile eases strain of daily struggles

Art from the Heart auctions more than 60 pieces of art created from the heart , soul and talent of kids with cancer in St. Louis.

KIRSTYN CORBETT Senior Francis Howell High School

he term “healing” is defined as the process of causing a wound, injury or person to return to physical health. For the Friends of Kids with Cancer, healing is a multi-faceted affair that delves much deeper than just physical trauma. The charitable organization specializes in providing financial, educational, emotional and recreational support to children undergoing or who have undergone cancer treatment, along with assistance to their families. The charity, established in 1992, was founded by two mothers whose children were undergoing treatment, along with an education specialist working with the families and seeing the struggles that accompany childhood cancer. “They had started talking about needing to come up with some way for kids to at least leave with a smile in what was, oftentimes, a painful procedure,” explained Tim Mickelson, director. “They had specifically wanted to focus on the non-medical side of the equation – the emotional, educational and recreational side – and came up with the idea of a toy box.” Every time a child had a treatment session, he or she would pick a toy and, in spite of the pain that day, leave with a smile and a good memory. Twenty-six years later, this small deed has developed into numerous programs. Emotional, educational and recreational support continues to promote

the original mantra of Helping Kids with Cancer: Be kids! The programs extend past the patient’s time for treatment and focus on assisting their families as well. “We provide counseling, both in group and individual sessions, for parents and siblings to express their emotions to an audience that understands what they’re feeling. This helps them focus on more positive and hopeful aspects of the

“The organization has been there for my son when he had to go through two different battles. They’ve completely spoiled him rotten, as well as our family, to help us get through everything and forget all of the everyday grind you have to go through,” Edwards said. “It’s nice to be able to go out as a family and have financial assistance, providing toys for the kids, sending us places, having their special parties – which is good for us

Proud modeling stars whose background is helped by Friends of Kids with Cancer walk the runway with friends, mentors and celebrities at an annual fashion show and boutique.

situation,” Mickelson said. “In these circumstances, it is critically important that families can continue to play and have fun together. We want them to have reasons to laugh, smile, enjoy being together, and forget about cancer – even if it’s just for a short time.” Donielle Edwards found resources helped both her son’s journey and her own.

meeting other people – and being able to connect with the other families that are going through similar situations.” To provide these joyful occasions, the organization arranges for families to receive opportunities like seats at sports events, throwing out the first pitch at a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game and group-sponsored events. More fun comes

at annual community events, including a 5K walk-run, Christmas Wonderland celebration and fashion show and boutique. This year, the fashion show and boutique on Nov. 8 was planned for The RitzCarlton St. Louis. At the 26th anniversary show, the classic lunchtime fashion event showcased 30 current and former patients walking the runway alongside an adult connected to the organization or the patient’s individual treatment. At the dinner show, members of the St. Louis Blues hockey team walked the runway, too. “On that day, the room is full of incredible love and support,” Mickelson said. “This is a day where cancer does not exist. It’s a day about being the star from the moment that you walk into The Ritz and a day where cancer is kicked to the curb.” These events are opportunities for children and parents to connect with others in similar circumstances and provide funding for the program. “While everyone cares and loves you for you, no one understands the situation more than other parents who have experienced having a child go through treatment, so these events provide opportunities to smile and experience joy with others around you who have experienced exactly what you’re experiencing,” Mickelson said. The Friends of Kids with Cancer program puts this money solely toward St. Louis families, the only requirement to receive assistance from the organization. “We will never refuse a child assistance,” Mickelson said. “Cancer is color blind. It knows no distinction of race, language or gender. Our view is a kid is a kid is a kid and if there is a kid in St. Louis who has cancer, we’re going to be there for him.”

CORNERSTONE CENTER FOR EARLY LEARNING

Concern for children includes diapers JESSICA STACKER Senior Villa Duchesne High School

ffordable childcare is not easy to come by for many parents and families. Cornerstone Center for Early Learning breaks the barrier between affordable childcare and quality education for young children. Cornerstone serves families of all economic backgrounds. This organization was founded in 1969 in the St. Louis Shaw neighborhood with full accreditation and has upheld the same promises since then. The staff is committed to caring for the whole child. Many of them have dedicated 15 years or more to educating and adhering to each child’s emotional and social needs. This service suits working families perfectly because its hours are 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. year-round, not just during the traditional school year. Tuition is determined on a sliding scale so families are only responsible for paying what they can afford based on personal financial circumstances. Families who wish to enroll a child may reach out to Cornerstone and receive a two-page enrollment packet with an application fee of $20. Cornerstone checks the boxes for many aspects of diversity. While children of all economic backgrounds are invited to attend, many students live in poverty and 46 percent attend the program free because

Early learners at Cornerstone Center embrace the warmth of Old Newsboys’ support.

they qualify under state guidelines. In 2017, eighty-four percent of students were from St. Louis City, but the remaining student body came from as far away as St. Charles County and Illinois. Many racial groups are represented, with about half African-American. Cornerstone’s emphasis is on helping any family in need of its services, not isolating them by priority groups. Cornerstone children are provided with a nutritious breakfast, lunch and snack. Basic necessities such as diapers, infant formula and medical, dental, vision, hearing and developmental screenings are provided with no additional cost to families. This is where Old Newsboys has come to

the rescue. Cornerstone Center for Early Learning has received support for its onsite Diapering Program from the organization for the past six years. Diapering supplies are provided to children younger than age 3 while they are on-site Monday through Friday. Director Jami Melton said, “The school fully understands that buying diapers may present financial stress for some families, so alleviating this burden can be critical. Cornerstone is extremely thankful for the help from the Old Newsboys Day organization because this service would not be possible without them.” The school helps relieve financial stress in other ways, too. Speech, physical and

occupational therapy are provided at no charge to families whose children need these treatments. Other necessities such as clothing, food, toys, books and much more are donated to children and their caretakers. Learning, of course, is a vital component for Cornerstone. Melton said, “Cornerstone strives to prepare students for a lifetime of positive social interaction and learning.” From the first step into the center, they begin their path in the basics of reading, writing, math, science and art. The program provide hands-on experiences while learning with activities children love: playing in water, pounding on dough, drawing, painting, singing and dancing. These methods are working efficiently as shown by students scoring “on target” or above the national average for learning in 2017. In last spring’s annual Family Satisfaction Survey, offered optionally and anonymously, 100 percent of respondents ranked Cornerstone very high or extremely high and believe their children are being prepared for future success in school. Responses included, “Thank you for providing a nurturing, safe place for children,” and “Our family loves this center!” Touching the staff the most for their lasting impact on children and families, one statement said, “Cornerstone staff and teachers are like extended family to me and my children. I am so grateful to have found a childcare center where my children are nurtured and where I feel supported.”

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CARDINAL RITTER SENIOR SERVICES

Grandparents connect, support MARTIN TRUJILLO CARRAZCO Senior Ritenour High School

ealizing that there is a need for senior citizen care and guidance, Cardinal Ritter Senior Services (CRSS) has provided help for the elderly in need of affordable housing, dementia care, independent living, assisted living and volunteer opportunities for almost 60 years. Founded in 1960, the Cardinal Ritter Institute was formed to advocate for the growing senior citizen population. In 2004, the institute was renamed Cardinal Ritter Senior Services to better describe the services offered. Today, CRSS is the largest agency under the Catholic Charities Federation. CRSS prides itself on the four pillars addressed in its mission statement: love, compassion, hope and integrity. These pillars then shape the work done by CRSS. Of course, being a “senior” still offers ways to grow. A new stage of adulthood on the drawingboard might involve care for a younger generation. One of many programs offered by CRSS, Relatives Acting as Parents Program (RAPP), offers financial assistance and a network for relatives, usually grandparents, who are responsible for caring for young family members. It assumed an official duty at a St. Louis Cardinals game this fall. “Our Relatives Acting as Parents participated for the first time in the First Pitch Ceremony on Sept. 14, in which one of our participants threw out the first pitch during the ceremony,” said Ebony Glover, who works in the

The annual Grandparents Day is a special occasion for families overseen by a grandparent and supported with services by Cardinal Ritter Senior Services.

social services department. It is just another way CRSS covers those pillars it embraces, she acknowledged. Its tribute day to grandparents, typically held on the national “holiday” in September, is a multi-generational party of food, entertainment and activity.

The organization asked Old Newsboys to help provide clothing, school supplies, winter coats and shoes for the children it supports through its Relatives Acting as Parents program. Elizabeth Bujnak, a grandmother receiving help from the organization for older support-

ing relatives, listed ways she has benefited while raising her grandchildren. “What doesn’t this program do for me?” she asked. “They help you with Christmas gifts, they help you with bills and they help you take your kids to fun events. They do lots

of things for the children, like give them uniforms for school. These are the services I’ve been helped with and it’s wonderful. I couldn’t be making it without them right now as a grandparent,” Bujnak said. Additionally, she has felt the program’s support over and above the financial and m a te r i a l . C RSS p rov i d e s workers who help in personal relations, too. “You didn’t know you were going to be in these circumstances and now you are. The help is phenomenal,” Bujnak said. “Ms. Ebony is my social worker and she’s just so wonderful. She’s the nicest lady and you can talk to her about anything. She went with me to my disability hearing. They are there for you, give you support and provide a safety net.” Glover sees it simply as a way of life at CCRS. According to its mission, members “honor choices and maintain the quality of life for senior adults by ‘doing the right thing, in the right way, for the right reason, every time.’ This is how we live our mission. It is our way of life at Cardinal Ritter Senior Services.” There is always a need for funds and volunteers, but those in the front trenches dig in to help where needed. Glover believes her personal stake in this organization has allowed her to proudly help those with voices that need to be heard. “Over the last six years, this organization has provided me with the opportunity to become an advocate for the seniors in the community who feel they don’t have a voice. I enjoy every aspect of my duties and take pride in being able to continue connecting those seniors in the community with resources they may be in need of,” Glover said.

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EAST SIDE HEART & HOME FAMILY CENTER

Assistance gains pride and housing Empowering parents to rebuild their lives and families MACKENZIE PUGH Senior Francis Howell North High School

he building at 705 Summit Ave. in East Saint Louis is a sturdy, red-brick, two-story – the kind where a person sees character just by looking at it. Previously a rectory belonging to St. Adalbert’s Catholic Parish,

the building has lived multiple lives. Originally, Vincent Gray Alternative High School served as a high school for students unable to continue in the local public schools. An expansion left the building empty. In 1993, from the bones of the old Vincent Gray Alternative High School, the Family Center was born. “The empty building would have just gone the way of many other buildings in the area,” Sister Carol Lehmkuhl said. “Some ideas came up that maybe there

Participants of the Women’s Circle and their families enjoy learning about - and petting - livestock during a recent outing to Willoughby Farms in Collinsville.

was another way of using the buildings that had once been the high school.” According to Sister Carol, founder, that was when Family Center started. Its goal was to work with low-income families and help them to be independent and proud of themselves. This is achieved by offering programs like Women’s Circle, a support system for women and their families, and programs targeted for assisting seniors. Other opportunities involve families of all ages. After a couple years of working with families, it became clear that the abundance of abandoned homes and a need for affordable housing was high on the list of needs of the community. The East Side Heart & Home Center’s target was to build and provide homes for families in need. In the beginning, the programs operated independently. After several years, it was obvious that the needs provided by the two organizations went hand in hand, so a consolidation formed East Side Heart & Home Family Center. Some local residents have benefited from multiple aspects of the programs. “Participation with the Family Center has been good for me because I got my GED from here, and it gives me chances to do things that I’ve never done, like going to Grant’s Farm and pumpkin patches, with my kids,” said Sharon Wildourn, a longtime participant. Sister Carol sees results that are stunning for individuals, but also broader than simply oneon-one with residents. “It’s good work, it’s hard work and I think we have helped a lot of people learn to appreciate the

Sister Mary Ann leads a science experiment with Chrissy, LaParis, Damion and Acapella during STEM summer camp at the Family Center in East St. Louis.

City of East St. Louis, because that’s our intention to try to change the negative opinion of the city,” Sister Lehmkuhl said. “We want to show that East St. Louis ... has some wonderful people, hard-working people that just need good opportunities to advance jobs and get good schooling and such. That’s what, in our little way, we try to provide.” In order to ensure they are on the right track in helping the community, the organization incorporates families into its governing structure. A housing committee works with the program, mixing people who already have gone through the program and other individuals interested in the work of East Side Heart & Home. They look at, assess and speak to local people to determine ways for the program to move forward and help the community succeed.

“I think success – the definition of success – is not to be necessarily recognized nationally but to be recognized by your family or yourself as someone who has stayed the course and succeeded in the goal that they’re trying to accomplish,” Sister Carol said. “Maybe to help their kids become a little bit better than they were and to have them have a little bit more opportunity than they did when they first came to live in East St. Louis.” The organization is mainly funded through fundraisers and grant writing, as it receives no federal funding. Newsletters sent twice a year help spread the word. Its Old Newsboys grant this year was used for school uniforms for children of many ages. “It’s hard to find finances to operate,” Sister said. “Our funding comes from people who believe in us and believe in what we are trying to do.”

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tended family. Agreeing in writing can help to make sure that the parenting time shift is formalized. It’s also important for each parent to be kind to each other about problems that might arise during the holidays and continue to work for a positive relationship. A parent heading for divorce may retain a family law attorney who can represent their interests in court. The family lawyer could advocate for their relationship with the child and obtain a court order that reflects the child’s best interests. Stange Law Firm, PC, limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC, gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give clients their cell phone numbers. Stange Law Firm, PC, understands the emotions that can come from a divorce or family law matter. No matter the family law issue you face, we are here to help you rebuild your life. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

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INFANT LOSS RESOURCES

Learning to keep infant safe “It is a program where expectant mothers and fathers can come to the office and learn about safe sleep,” Casey explained. Senior “It is taught by our education team memRitenour High School bers. After the class is over, the parents receive a Pack N Play and watching them here are times when families receive their crib is very sweet. They are so have to deal with the sudden, gracious and excited.” A grant from Old Newsboys helped unexpected loss of an infant. An organization in St. Louis purchase cribs. The organization, dating back 44 years, offers resources to those families as they was created after one of its founders expecope with the traumatic experience. Infant Loss Resources (ILR) is a non- rienced her own infant loss. “It began in 1974 because a social profit organization that provides aid to families affected by Sudden Infant Death worker parent and her husband lost a baby. She comSyndrome (SIDS) bined forces with or other infanta neonatologist related death. and they started SIDS is the unthe organizaexpected death tion,” Behrens of a seemingly said. healthy baby, Infant Loss the cause for this Resources also sudden occuroffers ways to get rence remaining involved with the unknown. organization. Lori Behrens, “ T h e re a re executive director A parent lays her child on his back in a new of ILR, explained portable crib, practicing a technique learned several volunteer opportunities. that the organi- to avoid Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. They can call the zation has a twooffice or check online (http://infantlosspronged approach to its services. “We have two focus areas,” Behrens resources.org) to see what kinds of ways to said. “The first is family support for fami- help out. We are always looking for help.” “We exist primarily through grants and lies who have lost babies due to infantrelated deaths. We have support groups fundraising. We do not receive governand other related services. The second ment funding, so the Old Newsboys conpart is educating people about how to tributions are greatly appreciated,” Behrens said. protect infants and prevent SIDS.” Employees’ goal is to provide the best ILR provides family support through grief counseling, peer connections and service possible. They understand the home visits. Services can be individual- emotional toll that losing an infant can ized depending on the circumstances and have on a family. They take their jobs very seriously and all services are free of charge. The organization also helps with memorial and com- strive to do what they can to help grieving memorative events, in addition to holding families. “I believe we are here to serve, especlasses for pregnant or current parents to learn ways to decrease the chances of their cially to serve those in need. I wanted to join the organization to support families child suffering from SIDS. Dawn Casey, family support coordina- on their grief journey. I wanted them to tor, is proud of the Pack N Play (portable know they are not alone,” Casey said. crib) program provided by the organiza- “Walking alongside the families has been an honor.” tion to parents. CORALIS BOBE

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GOOD SHEPHERD CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES

Helping hand extends safer community ALYSSA BAILEY Junior Liberty High School

e’ve all been there: the feeling of being lost, a little mistreated, maybe not knowing what the best decision may be ahead of us. These feelings are all part of what Good Shepherd Children & Family Services is here to do: to guide those lost and make their journey a little less tough along the way. The mission of the Catholic nonprofit agency is to develop a feeling of reliability so that a person who is lost can depend on the organization to provide the support and care a family may need. Good Shepherd’s multiple departments range through many stages, from pregnancy and parenting support to adoption, foster care and maternity shelters. With all these branches, the staff has grown immensely just as the clientele has evolved and increased. “We have, for staff, about 60 people,” communications coordinator Emma Vonder Haar said. “It differs every year, but in our foster program, we have 105 cases – 105 children that we directly serve - and we also work with the foster families and the siblings of children in foster care.” Numbers add up quickly. “In our pregnancy and support program, I believe we have a few hundred clients we serve every year so, with everything, it’s close to a thousand people we serve every year,” Vonder Haar estimated. The first Good Shepherd Children & Family Services agency opened in the 1830s. It was originally formed as part of the Catholic Church to serve individuals in the community. From there, the program created four agencies - Catholic Services for Children & Youth, Father Dunne’s Newsboys Home, St. Joseph’s Home & Family Services and Marian Hall - to serve people as acute needs of individuals became more

obvious. It was time to merge them in 2007. Just like the clients, staff members also feel protected and grateful for the opportunities that Good Shepherd has provided them. “I applied for the job about three years ago and it was something that was important to me – to have a service component and I work in communications,” Vonder Haar said. “For me, it was important to have that necessity in that field (while) still serving others and using the skills, experience and talents I had for the mission of Good Shepherd.” Good Shepherd Children & Family Services provides full confidentiality among its clients and the staff is always doing its best to support children and families in every way imaginable. That variety is supported by a wide array of talents provided by individuals contributing to volunteer works for Good Shepherd. “Our staff is very supportive of what we do and always go above and beyond for our clients. We really work hard to organize Christmas for families and things that go beyond the job description,” Vonder Haar said. “We’re really here to serve our clients without any obligations.” Volunteers are key to the organization of Good Shepherd, too. She noted that typical among them are high schoolers, retirees or people who simply want to give back. Spreading the word about the organization’s good works has changed drastically over time as well. Now, it partners with businesses willing to tell its story and show what Good Shepherd Children & Family services truly mean to clients – including those helped with clothing and transitional items from Old Newsboys funds. “We have sold many papers (for donations) in the past,” Vonder Haar said. “The funds that come from the Old Newsboys Day benefit our clients and that’s something that we’re able to rely on every year to support our clients.”

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CARITAS FAMILY SOLUTIONS

SANTA’S HELPERS

Well-being balances potential BROOKE HUFFMAN Sophomore Liberty High School

aritas Family Solutions, a nonprofit child welfare and family services agency, specializes in foster care, adoption, counseling, residential therapy, senior assistaed living, pregnancy care and living arrangements. “Caritas Family Solutions provides direct services to persons of all backgrounds with social and emotional needs across the continuum of life,” said Laurie Lindauer, marketing communications manager. “Our primary goals are to help people reach their full potential and to reach a place of well-being in their lives so that they can do that.” Located at 8601 Main St. in Belleville, Caritas was founded in 1947 and has provided a helping hand ever since. What once started as an agency for family support of Catholic immigrants has grown to meet many more community needs. One way it serves is with Community Integrated Living Arrangement (CILA) for developmentally disabled adults. Appreciation runs deep. “We chose Caritas Family Solutions’ home for the developmentally disabled for our daughter because of the integrity of the workers and the overall reputation of the agency. The goals of the agency are incredibly important,” said Barbara M., mother of a CILA resident. As needs arose, Caritas has added facilities. St. John Bosco Children’s Center has helped abused or neglected children since 1992, Fox River Assisted Living Center began to serve older citizens in 2006 and Community Integrated Living Arrangement became part of the design in 2014. “Our largest service area is foster care and we’re actually the third largest foster care provider in Illinois,” Lindauer said. “We serve people all across the southern third of the state. We’re also the largest adoption service provider in southern Illinois.”

St. John Bosco Children’s Center focuses on helping children ages 6 to 18 who have suffered severe physical or mental abuse. Services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Children placed there usually are victims of abuse or neglect so severe that their mental state may no longer be conducive to success in a foster home. Children placed in the program receive individual therapy, group therapy, family therapy and have access to health-

A student at St. John Bosco Children’s Center goes hands-on with colorful paint.

care, recreational activities, educational opportunities, balanced meals and daily art therapy. Funds received this past year through the Old Newsboys Foundation are being used by St. John Bosco Children’s Center. “The funding we received last year helped pay for sensory items, as part of their therapy,” Lindauer said. Activities, intended to soothe their spirits and help them move forward peacefully, add up to a feeling of well-being and completeness. Of course, donations help the effort, but so do volunteers who participate in one-on-one or support roles. “We are often looking for volunteers to assist in many of our program areas,” Lindauer added. Caritas Family Solutions is committed to assisting community members return to full potential.

Gift makes ‘somebody’ feel worth MASON KELLERMAN Freshman Marquette High School

he little girl, about 8 or 9 years old, in line with a social worker, thought she was a ‘nobody.’ “Santa’s gonna call your name and give you presents,” encouraged the social worker. “Santa doesn’t know my name. I’m homeless, I’m a ‘nobody,’” was the girl’s confident reply. A few days later, the girl woke up on Christmas Day to Santa in her view and the social worker standing next to her. His hands were full of gifts, but only one gift mattered: the stuffed animal with her name across it. “You’re right,” she told the social worker . “I am a ‘somebody,’.’” “And that hooked us,” explained Rita Swiener, founder of Santa’s Helpers Inc. It was the story that started an organization now celebrating 50 years of giving. Santa’s Helpers, a nonprofit organization, brings happiness to underprivileged children and families in the metro St. Louis area by delivering, since its inception, a total of more than 900,000 gifts to 30,000 families. This year’s bonus: Those holiday-helpful people plan to top those numbers by making 2018 their best yet. Their process for this is a simple, threestep procedure. First, volunteers help to find the year’s hottest toys at the lowest prices. Like last year’s fidget spinner, their gifts come from money and toy donations and welcome phone calls from Walgreens with new toy shipments. Then, they prepare each gift by wrapping it in festive paper and printing the name of the child on the front. As Christmas and Hanukkah near, referrals come from social workers and agencies with names of individuals and families who are in need of holiday cheer. With their list of names, the team starts

to gather more information and plan their schedules for the special day just like the one told about the young girl who thought she was a “nobody” until Santa cared enough to call hers out. Finally, when the day arrives, some volunteers dress as Santa and appear at each family’s door, their hands full of gifts. For the families who celebrate Hanukkah, the organization provides each child with a gift for for every day of the holiday. Volunteers personally hand out each present to every member of the family, while the kids spend some time with Santa. “Once we get someone to go out as a Santa, they’re hooked,” Swiener said. “We’ve never had a one-time Santa.” Luckily for Santa’s Helpers and, of course, those they recognize, Christmas doesn’t come only one time a year. There’s also Christmas in July. In addition to giving out toys, Christmas in July offers a child the opportunity to pick out clothes and a pair of shoes. And, no, it does not stop there either. Swiener has a secret: Plans are in the making to have Christmas come around three times a year in the future. Dominic Civili, aka the computer whiz, has been with the charity since he was 3 years old. Now an adult, Santa’s Helpers’ software engineer cannot remember being apart from it. “That’s what Christmas meant when I was a kid, wrapping presents for these other kids,” Civili said. Today, Santa’s Helpers continues to grow in the number of donations and volunteers every year and uses all the help it can get to make every child’s Christmas in the metro St. Louis area the most memorable ever. Even Santa needs a little help, because he plans to use 100 percent of his allotted Old Newsboys Day funds toward buying toys, clothes and other necessities for families in need. “For people looking to grow personally,” Civili said, “there’s no better way to find out what person you need to be than by volunteering at a charity like Santa’s Helpers.”

A full service business law firm with a simple promise -- put you first SmithAmundsen’s St. Louis office consists of 24 attorneys, regularly handling every kind of business problem from transactions to complex commercial litigation, from tax to real estate and everything in between. For more information about us, or our other offices, contact Brad Goss at 314.719.3702 or bgoss@salawus.com.

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M 1 • Thursday • 11.15.2018

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