We are thrilled that our childcare expansion project is just about completed! The Epiphany Early Childhood Education Center (with four additional classrooms) and new Green Outdoor Play/Learning spaces will allow Epiphany to almost triple the number of children served in our childcare each year (from 15 to 44).
Construction began over a year ago with the remodeling of current space to create and implement a PreK program/classroom adding 16 children. With the support of the Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF), CalFire, Foundations, and our generous donors, this expansion project is creating meaningful change for our children, families, and our community:
•Expanding capacity from 15 to 44 children.
•Reaching more underserved children and families (promoting equity and opportunity where it is needed most).
•Creating vibrant, developmentally appropriate spaces filled with new furniture, engaging materials, thoughtfully designed areas for play and discovery.
•Supporting job creation and strengthening our team of early childhood educators.
•Helping children grow socially, emotionally, and academically, giving them the strongest possible start. Early education is one of the most powerful ways to invest in a child’s future – and you are part of that legacy. Your generosity helps lay the foundation for lifelong learning, resilience, and success. We are grateful to you for believing in our mission and investing in the future of our children.
We look forward to welcoming you at our upcoming Ribbon Cutting (date to be determined!) and to be able to personally thank you for all you make possible for so many.
Have you included Epiphany in your
This project is MADE POSSIBLE BY
Dear Friends of Epiphany,
When I share the history of the Daughters of Charity coming to San Francisco in 1852 and starting the first orphanage, the predecessor of Epiphany Center, I always state that the Daughters could not have served God’s most vulnerable children these past 173 years without lay people through every generation. On June 19th, we thanked God for one of those people, Dr. Linda Perez, for her 35 years of healing service here at Epiphany Center. When they saw that it was not enough to take care of the babies born affected to drugs, Dr. Linda and Sister Estela put in place the programs
that focused on the healing of their mothers and for all these years, we have nurtured women and children to better lives. Dr. Linda is an amazing gift to the children through our children’s mental health program, to our parents through her trainings to our early childhood education staff, to all of our staff through her sharing of her expertise in infant and child development and trauma informed care.
Recently we had the privilege to welcome our oldest living donor*, Zvi Danenberg, who will be 100 in July. He is a retired school teacher who learned about us through his friends Milt and LaVerne Reiterman and always wanted to come see Epiphany Center. He was quite impressed with our programs and grateful for our service to women in recovery for the difference it makes to them, but mostly to their children. I also want to acknowledge and thank all of you who support us through sharing your time, talent and/or treasure.
Blessings to you and all whom you love. Have a safe, happy and healthy summer,
Sister Betty Marie Dunkel, D.C. Executive Director
*Yes, we do have deceased donors whose legacies continue to support Epiphany today and one such donor named us in his trust in1919 and it continues today! He was the gardener of Governor Leland Stanford.
Dr. Linda Perez Celebrates 35 years of Service!
This June marks Dr. Perez’s 35th year working with the families at Epiphany Center. “I had been pursuing my post doctorate at Harvard and Stanford, working with high-risk neonatal babies, so I volunteered at Epiphany and was later hired,” she recalls. Asked what she attributes her long career caring for Epiphany’s at-risk families to, she says, “Compassion. The commitment to compassion at Epiphany Center is palpable when you walk in the door. I feel fortunate to be part of it. The staff have created a unique sense of protection for the women here.”
Happy 100th Birthday Zvi Danenberg!
Longtime Epiphany supporter, our oldest living donor, and friend Zvi Danenberg will celebrate his 100th birthday on July 21. We were thrilled to wish him well in person this May. Danenberg taught science at San Francisco high schools before retiring in 1985. A classical music enthusiast, he owns over 36,000 LPs. He's also known in Larkspur for logging over 1,000,000 steps on the Arch Street Steps—climbing 139 steps 21.5 times every morning. “I feel blessed to do what I do at my age. I feel young. I'm still interested in people and the world.”
The Anxious Generation
Dr. Linda Perez, PhD, recently presented an in service to all staff called “The Anxious Generation” focused on the effects of our dependence on our digital devices on child development over the last 20 years.
"Those of us who were adults all of those years know how it has affected us in all aspects of our lives and been a mixed blessing and curse, but for children of all ages I call it the new 'pacifier'," says Sister Betty Marie Dunkel, D.C.
Dr. Linda Perez, Epiphany Center’s Clinical Director of the Family Treatment Center as well as a professor at Mills College, has 40+ years of experience working in the area of early childhood trauma and mental health. A PhD from the University of California at Berkeley with internships at Stanford and Harvard, she is one of the leading experts supporting early development of medically fragile, high-risk preterm, and prenatally exposed infants.
“I love working with the infants and their parents, especially now as we know so much more than when I began working in the field over 40 years ago. I’m lucky to have witnessed the recognition of the importance of developmental understanding and treatment as a key to fostering infant health,” says Dr. Perez. “In addition, it’s encouraging to see that therapy has become increasingly accessible and accepted by the at-risk population. There’s less of a stigma, so more are seeking help.”
“I’m lucky to have witnessed the recognition of the importance of developmental understanding and treatment as a key to fostering infant health.”
A licensed clinical psychologist, she oversees Epiphany Center’s Family Treatment Center where children experiencing stress due to disruption of family unity, reunification, or other traumatic situations are treated. Even though her role is partially supervisory, she firmly believes in continuing to spend time working one-on-one with the children and their parents.
You can listen to the complete presentation at theepiphanycenter.org/news/anxiousgeneration
All Aboard the 28th Annual Benefit Party & Show
On Thursday, March 27th, the Epiphany League proudly hosted its Annual Benefit Party & Show, The Epiphany Express - a memorable evening supporting our lifechanging programs and the families we serve.
Since its founding, this signature event has raised over $3 million to help Epiphany respond to the evolving needs of more than 250 at-risk families each year. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our guests, sponsors, and donors, this year’s event raised over $170,000, which will directly support the expansion of our new Epiphany Infant Toddler Center, a vital step in our mission.
Held at The Family in downtown San Francisco, guests were transported to the golden age of travel aboard The Epiphany Express. The evening featured a lively musical revue by a talented all-volunteer cast, along with dinner, dancing, and a silent auction—made possible by the generosity of our community.
A powerful highlight of the night was Sierra, a former Epiphany client, who bravely shared her story of recovery. Her heartfelt words (see page 5) gave guests a moving glimpse into the real impact of Epiphany’s programs on her and her daughter’s lives.
We extend our sincere thanks to Party Chair Adrienne Murphy for her outstanding leadership, and to the creative team—musical director, creative director, producer, orchestra, crew—and our exceptional cast. Special recognition goes to Jeffo O’Sammon, Matt Callahan, and Dave Eshleman for bringing the show to life, and to Matt Callahan for leading our Fund-A-Need appeal with passion and energy.
Finally, thank you to our Epiphany League members, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters. Your generosity and belief in our mission make it possible for families to heal and thrive. Because of you, Epiphany Center continues its 173-year legacy of empowering women, supporting families, and building brighter futures. Thank you.
Photos by Scott Wall Photography. A) John Murphy, Susan Garrison, Adrienne Murphy, Marie Murphy, Jenny Murphy, Joanne Murphy, Marty Murphy, Pat Murphy B) Amit Pandya and Laura Rubinos C) Fritz Zimmer, Catherine Zimmer, Caz Zimmer D) Lydia and Doug Pringle E) Sister Betty Marie Dunkel , Jeffo Sammon, Dave Eshleman and Lucy McGuire
In Sierra's Words
When
I arrived at Epiphany, I was broken, lost, and unsure if I could rebuild my life. Epiphany gave me more than treatment — it gave me hope, community, and the tools to heal.
I’m here today because of the love I received, and with your support, Epiphany can offer that same chance to others. I came to Epiphany after being released from jail, five months pregnant, and unsure of my future. I had struggled with addiction since I was 12 and had tried three other recovery programs. What made Epiphany different was the compassion and commitment of the staff. They didn’t just treat my addiction—they helped me rebuild my life. After my daughter Aaliya was born, I knew I needed to change—for her and for myself. I wanted to break the cycle of chaos and addiction I had grown up in. Epiphany became our safe haven. Through the StepDown Program, I moved from intensive recovery into independence, while still receiving support. Epiphany’s childcare program has also been a gift. From just one month old, Aaliya has been in a nurturing,
loving environment where she’s thrived. Knowing she was safe allowed me to focus on healing. There was a time when my life felt hopeless. But through Epiphany—and my own determination—I found purpose again. Becoming a first-time mother while getting sober was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. But within Epiphany’s walls, I discovered the strength I never knew I had. The counselors, therapists, and fellow participants gave me a space to grow. Their belief in me helped me believe in myself. I learned to understand my addiction, rebuild self-esteem, and develop healthy coping skills. Today, I’ve taken back control of my life. I’ve rebuilt relationships, found new purpose, and created a better future for myself and my daughter. I’ve learned that asking for help is not weakness—it’s strength. I’m living proof that recovery is possible, and I wouldn’t be here without the love and support we received at Epiphany Center.
F) Cast: Jeffo Sammon, Paul Smith, Nathan Cottam, Traci Finch, Erik Davis, Dave Eshleman, Sam Gavenman, Kim Ortner, Fritz Zimmer, Victora Stewart Davis, Matt Callahan G) Patrick Ebeling, Erin Doyle Ebeling, Sheila Kelly, D’Arcy Owens H) Darrah and Matt MacLean
17th Annual Luncheon Honors
Mothers and Raises Over $50,000 for Epiphany Families
On Wednesday, May 7th, the Epiphany League gathered at the beautiful St. Francis Yacht Club for the 17th Annual Celebrating Mothers Luncheon—a sold-out event honoring the women who shape our lives and raising critical funds to support women in recovery at the Epiphany Center.
With the San Francisco Bay as a stunning backdrop, the luncheon was more than a celebration—it was a heartfelt act of community and compassion. Guests came together to honor mothers, daughters, sisters, grandmothers, and friends while giving generously to help women on their journey to healing and independence.
This year’s event raised over $50,000, thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees, donors, and sponsors. Proceeds will support our current Fund-A-Need initiative: the expansion of the new Epiphany Infant Toddler Center, which will provide essential care for the youngest members of the families we serve.
Guests enjoyed a vibrant orchid sale, a spirited silent auction, and a delicious lunch
shared among friends. The highlight of the afternoon was a moving testimonial from Elizabeth, a former Epiphany client. She bravely shared her journey of recovery and how Epiphany’s programs helped her rebuild her life for herself and her child.
Special thanks to Luncheon Chairs Nan Bouton and Debi Curley for their thoughtful leadership, and to Matt Callahan for leading a powerful Fund-A-Need appeal that inspired so many to give.
To our Epiphany League members, sponsors, donors, and volunteers—thank you. Your support makes a lasting impact. Because of you, Epiphany Center continues its 173year mission of empowering women and strengthening families.
Luncheon Co-Chairs, Debi Curley and Nan Bouton, speaking at Celebrating Mothers Luncheon 2025
Elizabeth Shares Her Story
Being here today—alive, sober, a mother, and an alumna of the Epiphany Center—is nothing short of a miracle. Three years ago, I was homeless, addicted, and desperate. I struggled daily just to survive, with no hope or vision for the future. I nearly lost my life, and my family thought I was gone.
I felt worthless and saw no way out—until I found out I was pregnant. That news changed everything. I didn’t know where I’d sleep or how I’d raise a baby, but I saw this as my second chance. I checked into San Francisco General Hospital, where I met Team Lilly—the doctors, nurses, and case managers who treated me with kindness when I didn’t think I deserved it. They gave me a list of programs, and when I found the Epiphany Center, I knew this was the place for me. It wasn’t just rehab—it was a real opportunity to rebuild my life with onsite
childcare. Walking into Epiphany with my premature son Evan, I felt hope again. The staff welcomed me without judgment. They saw a mother wanting a better life, not just an addict. Epiphany gave me safety, structure, and healing. The residential program offered parenting classes, therapy, and life skills while Evan received loving care nearby. After nearly a year, I began becoming the mother I was meant to be. Even after graduating, Epiphany supported me with transitional housing and outpatient care. When Evan and I got COVID, Lisa showed up daily, making sure we were never alone. The women at Epiphany became my sisters—sharing pain, victories, and dreams. Their support saved me. Today, Evan is thriving, and I have a full-time healthcare job, a home I pay for myself, and financial independence. I rebuilt my life from nothing. My new dream is to return to Epiphany as a counselor to help others find their second chance. On this Mother’s Day, thank you, Epiphany Center, for saving me and giving my son a future. I stand here today as a survivor, a mother, and a woman deeply grateful. Thank you.
Photos by Scott Wall Photography. A) Barbara Hendry , Kathy Montague, Julia McClintock Marianne Grech, Gracie Jones B) Susie Mariam C) Mary Beth Hambly, Celeste May D) MacLean Marsten, Brenda MacLean
District 2 Supervisor Sherrill Visits Epiphany Center
We were honored to welcome newly appointed Supervisor Stephen Sherrill (District 2- San Francisco Board of Superviors) to a recent visit to Epiphany Center. His time, insights, and genuine interest in our work meant so much to our team. During his visit, Supervisor Sherrill had the opportunity to tour our spaces, meet with staff, and see firsthand the programs and projects that are helping us grow and serve vulnerable families in our community. His encouraging words and thoughtful questions affirmed our shared commitment to children and families. Visits like Supervisor Sherrill’s remind us how valuable strong leadership and support are to the work we do every day. We are grateful for his time and perspective and look forward to our future collaborations.
From Left: Alan Wong, Children’s Council San Francisco | Dr. Linda Perez, PhD, Epiphany Center, Clinical Director | Elizabeth Winograd, Low Income Investment Fund (LIIF), ECE Deputy Director | Supervisor Stephen Sherrill, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 2 | Lynette Jones, Epiphany Center, Site Supervisor | Sister Betty Marie Dunkel, D.C. Epiphany Center, Executive Director
