Catholic Charities Stillwater: Bringing Education to Those in Need

When it comes to job opportunities, not having a high school diploma or GED can be a big hindrance. In particular, this lack of education often impacts our friends and neighbors in minority groups. Catholic Charities Stillwater volunteers work to close this education gap so that people across all groups can have equal opportunities. The center is located at the former St. Francis Xavier Church at 601 S. West, Stillwater.

Mike Fitzgerald has been working with Catholic Charities for about a year. He coordinates all of the activities at the center, administers the various tests that are offered, and teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) with his wife, Robin.

“We are waging war on the last form of discrimination, educational racism,” he says. All students in the ESL classes are St. Francis Xavier parishioners. The available tests are the GED and HiSET test, which is similar to a GED but more flexible. Free childcare is offered by volunteers at the center for children ages one and up. Mike notes many of the students are mothers.

“Time, talent, and treasure — it is our obligation to serve in these three ways,” Mike says. “Volunteering with Catholic Charities is a way that qualifies for all three. There isn’t anything that is hard — it’s like working with your children on their homework. Just showing up and being there is the biggest part.”

The GED classes are a bit more work to teach, but Mike says anyone with basic schooling can be trained.

When we offer someone the opportunity to further their education, we offer so much more than just a one-time gift. The gift of education is one that keeps on giving.

“Showing Christ’s merciful love is the easiest and most important part of my ministry,” Mike says.

For Mike, it is enjoyable to make learning fun and to help people reach the “aha!” moments, where they suddenly understand a concept. The ESL classes are a two-hour commitment each Thursday.

The classes cover practical concepts, and volunteers help with pronunciation and practice. Mike’s goal is to create a community through these programs.

“We make it fun with things like a homework assignment where the students are asked to watch a movie in English and listen to one song in English and tell the class about it the following week,” Mike says.

Mike believes in the importance of this work because data shows those with a high school diploma or GED can make more money per year than those without. Education just opens the door for more opportunities.

If you can’t get involved in teaching, Catholic Charities needs donations to support their work. In 2020, $62,000 was raised at St. Francis Xavier. Every dollar stays in Stillwater. Mike is so appreciative to all those who have given.

If you would like to get involved as a volunteer, please contact Volunteer Engagement at 918-508-7125 or email volunteer@cceok.org.

Volunteer Guy Palladino and St. Francis Xavier Operation Manager Sheryl Lacy visit the Catholic Charities center.