Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women Annual Report
July1, 2011– June 30, 2012
Providing housing, safety and community for women in transition
“From Sarah’s, I got confidence, I got to accomplish my dreams, I got hope.” - Former Sarah’s Resident 2012
Dear Friends, As Advisory Council members at Sarah's, we have come to appreciate the meaning and power of the six mantras frequently shared by staff and residents. They are: “You come to Sarah’s in order to leave.” “You are a good woman.” “May peacemaking prevail on Earth today.” “You can do it!” “Sarah’s will always be your home.” “One lesson at a time. One woman at a time. One day at a time.” Two in particular have inspired us in the way they embody aspects of this unique program that has served over 600 women during the past 16 years. "You come to Sarah's in order to leave." Sarah's is truly home for all its residents -- a place of beauty, community, and security. But it is not the final destination on any resident's journey. That will be housing that each woman can secure and maintain as she grows through self-empowerment into more independent living. This mantra also provides a fitting close to a resident's stay at Sarah's and a marker of the transformation that she has experienced as a resident. "May peacemaking prevail on Earth today!" One can't hear this urgent wish too many times! It is a potent reminder for all of us of our desire for a more peaceful and loving world. It reminds us of our individual responsibility to create that world through how we live our daily lives, no matter what our circumstances. We are all called to take personal actions to live into peace-filled lives that will help move us collectively closer to achieving our vision for peace -- within ourselves and in our homes, communities, and the broader world. As members of the Advisory Council, we celebrate the great gift that Sarah’s has been to the many residents who have stayed here as they rekindle their spirits and dreams for the future. We are grateful for the outstanding leadership that each director of Sarah’s has brought to this program during the past 16 years, and for all staff members and volunteers who have given so generously of their time, talents, and treasure. Thank you to all!
With passion and faith that one day peacemaking will prevail on Earth,
Mary
Cheryl Cheryl Maloney, D.Min, Chair 2008-2012
Mary Hunt, Chair-elect
Sarah’s mission is to provide hospitality for women in transition who are seeking housing, community and safety. Sarah’s… an Oasis for Women is a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet, St. Paul Province