Mercy Center for Women Annual Report

Mercy Center for Women 2021-22 ANNUAL REPORT

Doubling our capacity to serve Erie's homeless

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Pat Burns, Chair Atty. Lydia Caparosa, Vice Chair Anthony Keim, Treasurer Sr. Michele Schroeck, RSM, Secretary Brandy Krieger, Former Client Rep. Brian Arrington Niken Astari Carpenter Aimee Baumann Nicole Brugger Kathleen Burik Deacon Denis Coan Jennie Hagerty, Executive Director District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz Atty. Maureen Geary Krowicki Atty. Emily Merski Victoria Merski PJ Monella Atty. Kenzie Ryback Sr. Patricia Whalen, RSM

compassion LEADERSHIP &

The Mercy Center for Women Executive Committee of the Board include, from left, Anthony Keim, Treasurer, Pat Burns, Board Chairman and Sister Michele Schroeck, RSM, Secretary. Missing from photo is Atty. Lydia Caparosa, Vice Chair.

STAFF Executive Director Jennie Hagerty Directors of Client Services Anna Brzozowski Carla Storrs Communications, Marketing Director Teresa Borowy Facilities Director Michael Lockhart Dress for Success Erie Program Director Mary Graziano Finance Manager Crystal Lander Case Managers Annmarie McLellan, BSW Lindsey Miller, LMSW Executive Assistant Erin Dworakowski Office, Volunteer Coordinator Christine Gerlock Angela Murosky House Manager/Activities Coordinator Mary Tobin House Managers Melinda Albright Amanda Hernandez Melissa Kaster Jill Sznajder Tiffany Walker Evelyn Wesman Grants Manager Holly Nowak Grants Coordinator Shirley Schell Dress for Success Erie Assistant Toni Barry Facilities Assistant Jim Buffalari

MISSION STATEMENT

MERCY CENTER FOR WOMEN PROVIDES

Mercy Center for Women is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and is committed to enhancing the dignity of each person it serves through the healing of body, mind, and spirit.

Safe and supportive transitional and permanent housing, education, and counseling for women with or without children experiencing homelessness A connection with social service agencies and volunteers An environment based on spirituality and ethical values A network of ongoing support, mentoring and education to our residents and women in the community An environment based on spirituality and ethical values

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Dear friends,

As we anxiously await the opening of the Mercy Anchor Community Center, we’re also excited to share this annual report with you—to showcase some of the accomplishments we’ve achieved this past year. The belief of our donors, business supporters, and community friends provides this opportunity for development. The journey has been one of passion and reflects what lies in our hearts.

Jennie Hagerty Executive Director

What inspires one to open their heart and passionately give? We would speculate several reasons. Giving makes one feel alive.

The opportunity to support a remarkable mission which embraces women and children looking for their “second chance” to simply make life right. The course is slow for many served at the Mercy Center. One cannot accomplish a marathon without having the means necessary to accomplish success—the proper training, equipment, and determination. The same can be said for the Mercy Center women and children.

Through our clients, we continue to learn the meaning of love, forgiveness, and the pride that comes from both small and large accomplishments. The beauty of celebrating sobriety, graduating from drug treatment court, and reunifying with a child are a few ways in which your generosity delivers a hopeful future. There is no science to dealing with these struggles.

Unfortunately, they are a reality. But with each hill conquered comes one more reason to smile. Like celebrating a toddler's first step, our women take many steps each leading in a different direction, each with a reason to celebrate. The same door they passed through at the Mercy Center, feeling scared and alone, will be celebrated upon program completion as they exit.

Through your generosity, the Mercy Center for Women can share in this report our vision of transformation which is becoming a reality. The Mercy Center will be impacting even more lives in the coming year through our expansion at the Mercy Anchor Community Center. We will blossom into new beginnings for our community with two programs to serve those experiencing homelessness. We have you to thank for this.

Thank you for being their hope! Please take time to read through this report and the uplifting stories in it. You have made giving to others easy. The mustard seed planted at 1039 East 27th Street continues to bring hope and opportunity. Our mustard seed grew into the Mercy Anchor Community Center and for that we are so grateful.

I invite you to envision what our women experience when they ring our doorbell for the first time. Imagine your life closing in on you. Your life treasures must fit into just two large bags. Our women walk into the Mercy Center with the clothes on their back and all their belongings packed into these bags. When they graduate from here, they take with them so much more. Some will have corrected past mistakes and established healthy relationships with their children. All will have their self-esteem, a greater understanding of their finances, a network of support services to help them through future challenges, and permanent housing. Survival in the end conquers fear and their selfsufficiency shines through.

Smile, Pray, Be Kind,

Jennie Hagerty Executive Director

"If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible unto you."

Matthew 17:20

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Meet Maureen

It took a friend convincing Maureen to see a doctor who determined her lump was benign and she once again returned to Erie to live. Although Maureen had her physical health squared away, she was still dealing with her mental health and was now looking for a place to live. Maureen slept at friends' houses and unsafe shelters for many months. At what seemed like the perfect time, Maureen then received a call from the Mercy Center informing her she was accepted into the program.

Her entire life Maureen has cared for others. In her work and in her family, she has always put everyone else first. It took a health scare for her to realize she must take care of herself before she can give to others.

Maureen grew up in Erie, Pa., with her parents and six siblings.

The family was not well off, but her father instilled in them a love for adventure and would take the family on spontaneous escapades. Though life within her immediate family was stable, Maureen and her sister Patty were faced with traumatizing situations involving abuse from an extended family member.

Although the abuse bonded her sister and her for life, it would also prove to be extremely detrimental to their mental and physical well-being.

Since Maureen has been at the Mercy Center, she has realized the importance of self-care. She has lived her sister's legacy of helping others, but now realizes that working on herself both physically and mentally must be her number one priority.

Maureen is once again focusing on her creative side by writing and creating art. One of her favorite projects at the Mercy Center has been painting the mural on the center’s community room wall.

At the age of 20, Maureen was already married with two children. To distance herself from her abusive family member, she and her new family moved to Texas which was the first of many moves for Maureen. Circumstances in her life did not improve, however, as her husband also began to abuse her.

Maureen would escape an abusive situation yet again and return to Erie, leaving her soon-to-be ex-husband. Now older and stronger, she felt better equipped to deal with her family dynamics.

Maureen feels as though she has lived many lives, but she is happy to be beginning a new, healthier version at the Mercy Center. She is engaged in meaningful work and hopes to one day complete her college degree and tell her story in an autobiography.

During this time, Maureen threw herself into her creative side.

She went to cosmetology school and worked as a makeup artist in theatres and haunted houses. Maureen also found love and married her second husband which was the beginning of a loving 18-year marriage. Everything would change, however, when she lost two loved ones to suicide: a good friend of hers and her 44-year-old sister Patty. Patty had battled bipolar disorder her entire life, and since Maureen was by her side from the beginning, this devastated her. Maureen had dealt with her own depression from a young age, so these two events further deepened her depression.

Because her sister, too, had lived an adventurous life and cared for others, Maureen vowed to continue that lifestyle and do so in her sister’s honor. This began her years of living in several states working various jobs as a caregiver. Maureen considers most of the jobs she held to be “end-of-life jobs,” meaning, she worked in hospice care and was a caregiver for those at the end of their lives.

Maureen was one of several residents who participated in the center's community room mural project. Ever the creative soul, she also enjoys cooking, writing, and being an involved mother in her children's lives.

Although Maureen loved being there for others, the environment began to take its toll on her when several of her patients died within a short period of time. The suffering around her brought back the pain of her sister’s passing and began to take its toll on Maureen. This along with finding out she may have cancer put her into an even deeper depression.

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What are you most proud of?

"I am proudest of raising my children to be kind and their remembering my father's influence on them to be really good humans."

Maureen's Reflections

How has the Mercy Center helped you?

"The Mercy Center has offered me a secure environment to grow, heal, and go on to succeed. They've also taught me to care for myself."

If you could tell your younger self or a younger resident one thing you've learned in life, what would it be?

"I've learned that it isn't selfish to care for myself, and that I need to in order to flourish."

Reviewing one of her journal entries, Maureen excels at writing and hopes to one day write a book about her life. She is also an exceptional cook and spends a lot of her time in the kitchen preparing new recipes and teaching other residents how to cook.

How are you different today than when you first arrived at the Mercy Center?

"By finding myself again, I realize I am a good person worthy of happiness and success. I've learned to not allow naysayers to say otherwise, nor dim my light. Shine, baby, shine!"

'Yes, yes I have a guardian angel and her name is Patty.

Patty, my sister.' Then tears began to pour down my face with the realization of what had occurred sinking in, and what could have happened had the circumstances been different. All of this happened because I caught an earlier bus in a rush. Salty tears poured down my face once again making contact with the glass and stinging at me.

adventurous RESILIENT &

-Excerpt taken from Maureen's essay about a bus shooting incident in which she was involved.

Maureen was spared serious harm because the bus she was riding had bulletproof glass.

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Those we served FY2021-22

Women with children Single women Children

Total

20 17 33 70

Women with mental health diagnosis History of domestic violence Fleeing from domestic violence Drug and/or alcohol dependency Chronically homeless Homeless Youth (18-24)

78% 84% 43% 62% 5% 22%

Aftercare Program

At the Mercy Center for Women, staff remain in contact with alumnae long after they have received services. From providing Thanksgiving meal baskets to Christmas gifts for their children, Mercy Center graduates know they can count on staff to continue to support them however they need.

Aftercare Women Participants Aftercare Children Participants

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18 25

Annual Fund Donors

Anonymous 1st Choice Auto LLC A.B.A.T.E. of PA Accudyn Inc. Sales Team Lynn A. Ackerman Brenda Adams Gina M. Adams J.M. Adovasio Daniel and Christine Agnello Shirley Agnew Tera Alabran Dennis P. Borczon and Mary Anne Alabaugh Marjorie A. Alberstadt Jack Albertson Elizabeth Ann Allen Margaret Allin Ronald and Theresa Almeda Karen A. Alonge Amazon Smile Jeanne Anderson Kathleen Anysz Kimberley Arvickson Abby Ashton K. Atkins John and Diane Augustine Patricia A. Baldwin William and Dina Ball Ann J. Baloga Margaret and Paul Balter Ellen T. Bane Loretta Baran Lori and Joseph Barber Barber National Institute Barrett C. Walker Family Fund Jeanette Barczynski Tim and Mary Barrett Toni and Pat Barry Susan Barton Lois Bartos Thomas and Roberta Batten Candace Battles Aimee Baumann Jonathan Priebe and Lisa Baumgardner Diane Baumgardner Samuel and Frances Beason Ed Akers and Carolyn Beck Doris A. Bednarski Virginia A. Bello Nancy E. Benedict Patricia and Peter Benekos Patricia and Don Bennett Danielle and Aaron Bentley Anita Bernstein

Robert and Diane Bestvina Keith and Barbara Beuscher Beute & Bliley, Inc. Jeff Bevacqua Kathy and Denny Bills James and Peggy Black Susan Black-Keim Dorothy Bloom John and Colleen Bloomstine Mark and Monica Bloomstine Tom and Peg Bly Judith and Victor Boboshko Sandra Bock Diana and Charles Bool Gary and Laura Borowy Teresa Borowy John and Susan Boss Douglas Boudreau Marilyn Bowers Randy and Barbara Bowers Virginia Boyer Irene and Ken Brasington Constance Brereton Richard and Victoria Brogdon Biddy Brooks Mary Ann Brothers Christina Riley Brown James and Mary Claire Brown Carl and Marlene Brugger Carl and Nicole Brugger Ann and Bill Bucceri Vern and Kathryn Buesink Troyer Jeffrey and Shelley Buffalari Anthony and Kimberly Buffalari Lisa Buffalari Sharon Buffalari* Katheryn Buffington Kathy Burik Ginnie Burger Shonale Burke Patrick and Leslee Burns Sandra Burr Catherine C. Burton Burton - Quinn - Scott Funeral Homes and Crematory, Inc. Sally Buseck Robin Buterbaugh James and Tara Buto Carol J. Byler Café 7-10, Mabel Howard Dr. Michele Campbell Diane Canfield Chris and Ann Marie Carbo

Dr. Willis and Mary Cardot, Jr. Frank and Joanne Cargioli Michael and Ann Carlin Emily Carlin Gloria Carlson Mike and Joan Carneval Bill Carney Beverly L. Carpenter Tami Carrara Emmett and Jamie Carroll Daniel and Theresa Casane Kenneth Caserta Robert Petri and Janice Castro Jane Causgrove Margret and Brian Celidonia Jeanne Marie Ryan and Marion A. Chaney Gregory and Linda Cermak Julie Chacona Barbara Chambers Cheryl Chiota Carol Christie Domenico and Joanne Cipriani City of Erie Employees Community Service Fund John and Loretta Clark Almitra Clerkin Edith Coccarelli Julie Cohen Susan Colvin Deanne and Matthew Comi Megan Comstock Mike Conley Sheila Connelly Gerald Considine Sheila and Malcolm Coon Dorothy and Kevin Cooney Jerry A. Coppersmith Paula Cosner Matthew Costa Sean and Alicia Costello Sherri and Terrence Costello Candice M. Courtney John and Susan Criswell Mary and Raymond Crolli Michael and Barbara Cross Donna Cummings Emily Cummings William “Rusty” Cunningham Craig and Ethelynne Cunningham B. Scott Kern and Amy Cuzzola-Kern Maria Czerwinski

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Ed Lesser and Mary Ellen Dahlkemper Belynda D’Andrea James and Kathleen Dammeyer Jack Daneri Kim and Mike Darnofall Dave Hallman Chevrolet Inc. Sharon Davenport Andrea Davis Jacqueline DeFazio Amy and Mark Denlinger Marie E. Desser Father John Detisch Chuck and Angie Devine Richard and Sally DiBacco Joseph DiBenedetto David and Mary Anne Dille Matt and Leah DiLoreto Ronald and Patricia DiMarco Beverly DiNicola Ellen L. DiPlacido Phyllis DiPlacido James and Barbara DiSanti Ernest and Elizabeth DiSantis Frances Donatelli-Sprake Marcia and Daniel DiTullio Adrienne Dixon David Bennett and Donna Douglass Patricia Donze Larry Doughty Ryan Doyle Martin and Jeanne Drabic Brandy Duda Mary and Gary Dudenhoefer Cindy and John Dudzinski Kelly Dundule Michael Dunlavey Darnella Durr Maureen Q. Dwyer Michael and Rebecca Dzurik Linda Ebach Barbara L. Edwards Christopher and Maria Ehrman Dave and Nancy Eichelsdorfer Michael and Margaret Eisert Michael and Lynne Elia Elks Lodge #67 Ladies Auxiliary Kathleen Ellwood Enjet Aero Erie Erie County District Attorney’s Drug Account

Erie Insurance Charity Challenge Pass-Through Fund of the ECF Erie Water Works Erie-Crawford Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO George Espy Arlene and John Evans Clint and Sarah Ewing Mary Ann and Frank Fabin Andi Fair Ken and Monica Fanazini Cynthia Farabaugh-Hood Amy Federici Rev. Jason R. Feigh Joseph Felicicchia Chuck and Adrienne Feronti Donald Fetzner Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC First Presbyterian Church Thomas and Jane Fisher Kenneth Fleming Flying Squirrel Erie LLC Sharyl Fogleboch John and Kim Fontecchio Mary Forgenie Roberta Forsman Lauren Fredette Gwenn Freeman Gary and Mary Pat Froehlich Frontier General Contracting, Inc. Terry and Maryann Frontino Front Stream Kathleen Fross Les and Violet Frost Alice Fuhrman Charlotte Fuhrman Mary Pat Furey Nathan “Dumpling” Gainer Stanley Gajewski Esther Gallagher Gannon First Year Seminar Class Leroy Ganska Family Vincent Gardner Louise Garrelts James and Dolores Garvey Ronald and Katie Geer Rob and Mary Gibson Gordon and Martha Gehrlein James and Joan Gehrlein Pat Genung The Robert C. Gibson Family

Annual Fund Donors

Jane and Peter Gilewicz Give Gab Margaret A. Glance Global Charitable William and Patricia Gloekler Charles and Dorothy Glover Edward and Rita Goebel Martin and Cheryl Goetz Cynde and Aron Goldberg Mark and Veronica Golden Francis Gonser Catherine Good Krista Gray Mary Graziano Susan Greenaway Valarie and Chris Greene Greenscape Lawn and Garden Service Inc. Michael and Katy Gregory Donna Grenberg Marguerite Griffin Laura Grimm Debra Grzybowski Tom Guelcher Donika Gunther Patricia Gustafson Caroline Percopo and Adrian Hagerty Aimee Hagerty Courtney Hagerty Jane and Sean Hagerty Jennie and Chris Hagerty John Hagerty Michael and Margaret Hagerty Gary and Connie Haibach Michael and Patricia Hall Ed Hammer Alan and Kathie Hannibal Maureen Haraczy Patricia Hardner Kyle and Anne Hardner Melinda Harmle Bridget Harmon Dennis and Barbara Hart Robert and Sandra Heinlein Deborah Heitzenrater Lisa and Kevin Helsley Deborah A. Henderson The James Herdzik Family Amanda Hernandez Nancy Herold Francis Herrmann Janice Hill Michael and Carol Hirsch

Kenneth and Carolyn Hitz Edward Hodas, Jr. Mary Hoffman Candice Hoover Patricia A. Howell Jen Huggler Ruth Hull Stiles Wendy and Leah Humes Tom and Barbara Hutzelman Carol Hymiak The Infantino Family Oliver Jackson W Kay Jacobsen David and Peggy Sue Jacquel Rev. John B. Jacquel Kelley Jacquel Amanda Jantzi Richard Jeffords John M. and Gertrude E. Petersen Foundation Regina Johnson Robert and Penny Johnson Victoria Johnson Katie Johnston Brian and Krista Jones Nancy Jordan Peggy Jordano George Joseph Dawn and Charles Joy Molly Joyce Antionette Kaliszak* Ron Norman and Susan Kaliszewski Dave and Mary Kay Kalivoda Patricia Kasony Juanita Kasper Tom and Lisa Kaveney Margo and Dan Keefer Janice and James Kehl Mr. and Mrs. Charles Keil Michael and Diane Keim Tony and Ginny Keim Sheila Kemp Sandy and Jack Kempisty Ken Wisniewski Insurance Agency Bruce and Bonnie Kern Bruce and Nancy Kern John and Gloria Kieffer James and Janice King Kingsley United Methodist Church Shirlee Kirk Haden Kathryn and Dennis Kitchen Karen Kleck

Renee Kloecker Knights of Columbus Koldrock Waters Angie Kontur Rev. Gerald Koos Janet and Gilbert Kosko Patricia Kosobucki Charles and Michelle Kozik Judy Krasnesky Allene Kraus Msgr. Henry Kriegel Karen Krieger Maureen Krowicki Joy Kronenberger Julia Wool and Alex Kruszewski David and Lori Kruszewski Katelyn Kruszewski Amy Krysiak Joanne and Howard Kubinski David Kuehl Patricia Kuehl* Jane Kuhn Patricia Lacy Elaine Lamm Mary T. Lamp Chris and Vickie Lampe Crystal Lander & Sydney and Cameron Anderson Urban and Mary Lariccia Janet Laskowski BJ and Barb Lechner LECOM Student Government Leech Holdings LLC Legacy Tree Foundation Joan Lemock Nicholas and Mercedes Leofsky Suzanne Scheuer Leon Julie and Frank A. Leonard Deborah Leonori Marie Lesh Dan and Marianne Levstek Georgia Lewis Leona Liebel Sue Liebel Frank and Judith Liebentritt Lincoln Recycling James and Sue Livingston Pamela Livingston Nolan LLR Inc. DBA Lularoe Rita and Daniel Loesch Joan and John Logrando Jane and Michael London Patricia Long

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Jim and Karen Longtine Sharon and Roger Lorgi Marilyn R. LoSapio Sue Low Marcia Lowes Atty. Al and Josie Lubiejewski Rita and Denise Lucas Paul A. Lukach, MSW, LSW Sue and Tom Luteran Linda Lutterbaugh Judith Lynch Jim and Jennifer Lyons Nancy Mack Elizabeth MacKrell David and Andrea Maille Deborah Majewski Jack Malovich James P. Malue Margaret Mango Patricia P. Mannarelli Marathon Solutions LLC Nancy Marchini Joseph and Dianna Marchini Christine Martin Elizabeth Martinez-Sotus Bob and Joan Martter Mary Jo Matheis Edward and Christine Matheis Margaret Matthews Dr. Linda May Narice May Kevin and Barbara Mazon Barry McAndrew Francis J. and Mary T. McBride Sr. Joan McCabe, RSM Dale and Carol McCall R. Perrin Baker and Christine H. McClure Anne M. McCormick Tina and Ward McCracken Chuck and Deborah McCreadie Marilyn McDaniel Martha McDonald Copenhaver Annette McDonald Scott Karen J. McEnery Carrie McGaffick Barbara McGaughey Jeannie McGinley Allison McGlynn Laura McIntosh Mary Janet McIntyre* Charles and Judith McKay Linda McKeever

Linda and James McKibben Carol and Robert McKiernan John and Diane McLaughlin Julie McLaughlin Richard and Patricia McMahon Catherine McMillin H. Jean McMillin Diane McQuaid Christopher and Shelley McQuown Brenda McWilliams Namon McWilliams Mechanical Contractors Association of WPA Medtronic James and Kathleen Meko Cheryl Melerski Marilyn A. Melhuish Mercyhurst Prep-Campus Ministry Christine and Jeffrey Merz Messiah Lutheran Church Deborah Meyer Michael Grab Architect Heather and Scott Michel Paul F. and Judy Mihalak Sherri Mikel Amber Miles Cindy and Gary Miller Karen Miller Lindsey Miller Judith L. Minichelli Lillian and Robert Minichelli John V. Minton III Keith Mitchell Earl and Josephine Mittelmeier Mark Mittelmeier PJ Monella Teresa Mooradian Richard Moore Terry and Cheryl Moore Sharon E. Morey Susan L. Morgan Morlin, Inc. David Morphy Motivate Studios LLC Frank “Francis” Mouyard Carolyn Mraz Dawna Torres Mughal, PhD, RDN Joanne Munzert Dorothy Elizabeth Murphy Genevieve Murray

Annual Fund Donors

Lynn Murray Julie and Thomas Murray Nancy Murray and Friends Rebbecca Myers Nabet-CWA Local 28 James and Donna Natalo Shelby Neal Dorothy Negro Chris and Dave Nerthling Sara and Stephen Nesbitt Lori Nestor Network for Good New Hope Presbyterian Church Erick and Stacey Nicklas Marian Nicks Jeffrey and Julie Nicolia Peter and Eileen Nill Barrie Jones Nolan Northwest Bank Jack and Holly Nowak Janet Nowak James Nuber Suzanne and Patrick O’Connell Nancy O’Neill Susan and James Ohrn Mike and Becky Okel Liz Opp Joseph and Susan Orinko Rita A. Orzel Pauline A. Osmer Deborah Padgett Gloria Palmer Sr. Donna Marie Paolini Diane and John Parente Kim and Pam Parker Parker Lord-Employees’ Good Neighbor Fund Susan Parry Gregory Passauer Marti Pastore Janet M. Pawlowski Elvera Payne PayPal Giving Fund Lee Penman Anne Perkins Jack and Valerie Pesta Joy and Michael Peters Steven Parker and Roberta Peters Peterson’s Property Maintenance, Inc. Joan Peterson Christine Phillips

Nancy Pianta Trapp Mary and Gerald Pierzynski Judith Pisano Plastics Services Network Joseph and Marjorie Podolsky Barbara Pollock Kathryn Pomeroy Power & Telephone Supply Co. Judith Pratt Frank and Jane Pregler Presbyterian SeniorCare Network Eric and Jessica Presogna Presque Isle Corvette Club Andrea Price Arlene Publicover Holli Pulice-Lewis Kathy Pytlarz Nancy Quint Stacy Rabat Mr. Bruce Raimy Beth Racine Steve and Mary Radack Jennifer Rautine RDL Family Foundation Barbara Reagan M. Redenius Adam and Erin Reese Rehrig Pacific Company Rejuv LLC Marilyn Agresti Renkes Nina Revetta Keith and Eileen Reynolds Ellen and Lou Richards Gini McDermott and Michael Richardson Rick Weaver Buick GMC Employees Rosemary Ritter David and Marilyn Robertshaw Susan and Charles Roehrl Barbara Roseborough Erin and Gregory Ross John and Beverly Rossi Theresa Rotunda Laura Roush C. Rupczewski Carolyn Ruth James and Mary Rutkowski Theresa Rzepka Ravi Sabherwal Anthony and Wanda Salvia Jill Samlock

Charles and Mary Ann Santi Laura Savelli John Scalzitti Daniel Scarlett Suzanne Scarpino Lynda and Allen Sceiford Gisela Schattner Rev. Bob and Shirley Schell Kathleen Scheppner Cynthia Schick Kimberly Schmidt Paul and Rita Schmitt Dorothy Schneidmiller Ann and Bob Schoeller Sr. Michele Schroeck Lawrence M. and Stacy A. Schultz S.E. Schuster Jeffrey Scibetta Desirae Scott Bruce and Rose Scouten Ann Marie and Steven Scutella Jan Seaman Karen and Eric Seggi Eugene and Cathy Seip Juliana Semple Seneca High School National Honor Society Stephen Sensor David Seppi Gary and Barbara Shapira Marilyn A. Sharp Rochelle Sheridan Siebenbuerger Club Veronica Silay Lee and Mary Simmons Lori and Eric Sitzler Elizabeth A. Skrzypek-Jackson Marybeth Smialek Charles and Nancy Smith Dennis and Antoinette Smith Mrs. Donna C. Smith Jay and Jackie Smith Kathleen Smith Maryann Smith Peter and Debbie Smith Kathy Iorio and Tony Snow, M.D. Suzanne Solaita Miles and Karen Sonney Marsha Sonntag Cheryl A. Spizarny Tom and Diane Spradley Karen A. Staab, Ph.D.

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Laura Laird Staszewski Stacey Steen St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church Linda Stevenson Michael V. Stewart Jim and Sharon Stoik Carla Storrs Linda and Robert Straub Ronald Strohmeyer David and Deborah Stubenhofer Susan and Randy Sucharski Diane and Jim Swalley Laurie Sweeney Matt and Sherry Sweny Larry Sydow James and Karen Szymanski Leatra Tate Judith N. Taylor Scott and Karol Taylor Ted Wood & Associates Andy and Pat Tellers Daniel and Mary Ann Tempestini Naomi Teperow Christine and Mark Terrell The Erie Community Foundation The Kern Family Foundation The Martha Wurst Hilbert Fund The Semple Family Jane Thiemann Judith Thomas Michael and LeAnn Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Thorton Mary F. and Lita M. Tirak Mary Tobin Mary and Thomas Todd Christine Tombaugh James G. and Joan D. Tonge James Toohey Sigma Toth Thomas Toy Marlene and Jerry Trambley David and Michelle A. Trapp Renee Triana Madeleine Trimble Timothy and Susan Trott Jayme and Adam Turos Renee and Kevin Uht United Way of Allegheny County United Way of Erie County Stephen and Mary Jean Urash

Barbara Vahey Sheila Valley Becky Van Cleve Julia M. Van Dyke Shirley and Phillip Venesky Vorsheck Family Foundation Inc. Jack and Barb Voytko Barbara Wagner Gordon H. Walk Vivian Wall Ms. Rhoda Walter Gina Waring Steve and Vicki Washek E. Shawn Waskiewicz Kathleen L. Watson Wayside Presbyterian Women Mary Weber Victoria E. Weber John and Evelyn Wedzikowski Bob and Ruth Wehrer Cynthia Weibel Susan Weiner Jim and Jane Wells Donna and Donald Werle Charlie and Lulu Weschler Patrick and Susan Weschler Scott and Linda Whalen Sr. Patricia Whalen Terrence and Cynthia Whalen Gwendolyn White Harry and Margaret M. Whiteman John and Annette Widomski Carol Wieczorek Rena Wierbinski Pat and Teresa Wilczynski Janice Wittmershaus Paul and Nicole Wojciki Casimir Wojciki Caryn Wolfe CYS Club Women’s Bowling Leauge Diane Worley YogaErie Jean Marie Yurkovic Fran and Joe Zaczyk Stanley Zagorski James and Elizabeth Zaranek Anne Zielinski Diana Ziemniak Matthew and Karen Zonno * deceased

Erie Gives 2021

We love and embrace Erie Gives Day at the Mercy Center for Women. The early rush of donors giving to their favorite charities excites both staff and clients. We gear up months ahead to market this “gift” of a day in our community. The prorated match the business partners in the community provide is a testament to their belief in Erie’s nonprofits. The Mercy Center for Women, like others, are glued to the leader board throughout the day. At the Mercy Center, it is the sense of pride through the number of donors which fuels our energy.

In one click, you made a difference in the lives of our women and children. We are "all in" on this day and are grateful to The Erie Community Foundation staff for their diligent work for months in advance.

Thank you, Erie, for choosing the Mercy Center for Women as your Erie Gives Day recipient. Each year our needs grow but especially this year as we look to double our capacity to provide homes for those who have none. Our staff give joyfully to women and children on their journey to self-sufficiency. We appreciate our donors who are with us on those journeys.

In 2021, donors contributed more than $87,000 to the Mercy Center for Women during Erie Gives to help carry out our mission. This is all because of you.

Erie Gives Donors

Anonymous Lynn Ackerman Gina M. Adams J.M. Adovasio Daniel and Christine Agnello Dennis Borczon and Mary Anne Albaugh Elizabeth Ann Allen Meg Allin Karen A. Alonge Kathleen Anysz Kimberley Arvickson Margaret C. Balter Ellen T. Bane Loretta R. Baran Joseph and Lori Barber Jeannette Barczynski Tim and Mary Barrett Susan Barton Candace Battles Aimee Baumann Lisa Baumgardner Diane Baumgardner Frances and Samuel Beason Virginia A. Bello Trish and Don Bennett Danielle and Aaron Bentley Anita Bernstein Jeff Bevacqua

Denny and Kathy Bills Beute & Bliley, Inc. Dorothy Bloom Monica Bloomstine Peg and Tom Bly Sandra Bock Teresa M. Borowy Gary and Laura Borowy Barbara and Randy Bowers Virginia Boyer Ken and Irene Brasington Deacon Richard and Victoria Brogdon Biddy Brooks Mary Ann Brothers Christina Riley Brown and Greg Brown Carl and Nicole Brugger Ann and Bill Bucceri Lisa Buffalari Sharon Buffalari* Katheryn Buffington Ginnie Burger Patrick and Leslee Burns Carol J. Byler Michele Campbell Diane Canfield The Carbo Family Mary and Willis Cardot, Jr.

Gloria Carlson Mike and Joan Carneval Robert Petri and Janice Castro Jane Causgrove Meg and Brian Celidonia Gregory and Linda Cermak Julie Chacona Cheryl Chiota Carol Christie John and Loretta Clark Louis F. Colaizzo City of Erie Employees Community Service Fund Malcom and Shelia Coon Dorothy and Kevin Cooney Jerry A. Coppersmith Matthew Costa John and Susan Criswell Donna Cummings William R. Cunningham Maria Czerwinski Kathy and Jim Dammeyer Belynda D’Andrea Jack Daneri Sharon L. Davenport Jacqueline DeFazio Mark and Amy Denlinger Marie E. Desser Angie and Chuck Devine

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Richard and Sally DiBacco Beverly DiNicola Ellen L. DiPlacido Jim and Barb DiSanti Ernest and Elizabeth DiSantis Adrienne Dixon Frances Donatelli-Sprake Ryan Doyle Martin and Jeanne Drabic Kelly Dundule Mike Dunlavey Maureen Q. Dwyer Barbara L. Edwards Christopher and Maria Ehrman Dave and Nancy Eichelsdorfer Michael Elia George Espy Andi Fair Ken and Monica Fanazini Fr. Jason R. Feigh John and Kim Fontecchio Gary and Mary Pat Froehlich Frontier General Contracting, Inc. Terry and Maryann Frontino Kathleen Fross Violet and Les Frost Charlotte Fuhrman

Dumpling Gainer Esther Gallagher Louise Garrelts James and Dolores Garvey Ronald Geer James and Joan Gehrlein Gordan and Martha Gehrlein Pat Genung The Robert C. Gibson Family Jane and Peter Gilewicz Patricia Gloekler Edward and Rita Goebel Mark and Veronica Golden Catherine Good Michael Grab Architect Mary Graziano Susan Greenaway Valerie and Chris Greene Donna Grenberg Marguerite Griffin Debra Grzybowski Tom Guelcher Aimee Hagerty Courtney Hagerty Jennie Hagerty Gary and Connie Haibach Michael and Patricia Hall Ed Hammer

Erie Gives Donors

Alan and Kathie Hannibal The James Herdzik Family Nancy Herold Janice Hill Edward Hodas Jr Candice Hoover Cafe 7-10, Mabel Howard Tom and Barbara Hutzelman The Infantino Family Kelley Jacquel Rev. John B. Jacquel Robert and Penny Johnson Victoria Johnson Katie Johnston Brian and Krista Jones Nancy Jordan George Joseph Molly Joyce Employees of Rick Weaver Buick GMC Ron Norman and Susan Kaliszewski Dave and Mary Kay Kalivoda Margo and Dan Keefer Mr. and Mrs. Charles Keil Michael Keim Sandy and Jack Kempisty Bruce and Bonnie Kern The Kern Family Foundation Kathryn A. and Dennis C. Kitchen Angie Kontur Rev. Gerald Koos Judy Krasnesky Allene M. Kraus Msgr. Henry Kriegel Joy Kronenberger Dr. and Mrs. Dave Kruszewski Joanne and Howard Kubinski Patricia J. Kuehl Patricia Lacy Crystal Lander and Sydney & Cameron Anderson BJ and Barb Lechner Nick and Mercedes Leofsky Marie Lesh Dan and Marianne Levstek Leona Liebel

Sue Liebel Jane and Michael London Patricia Long Sharon and Roger Lorgi Marilyn R. LoSapio Maricia Lowes Atty. Al and Josie Lubiejewski Paul A. Lukach, MSW LSW Sue and Tom Luteran Linda Lutterbaugh Judy Lynch Jim and Jennifer Lyons Nancy Mack David and Andrea Maille Deborah Majewski Jack Malovich James P. Malue Margaret Mango Patricia M. Mannarelli Elizabeth Martinez Sotus Bob and Joan Martter Margaret Matthews Dr. Linda May Kevin and Barbara Mazon Barry McAndrew Francis J. and Mary T. McBride The McCall Family R. Perrin Baker and Christine H. McClure Anne M. McCormick Chuck and Deborah McCreadie Michael Richardson and Gini McDermott Karen J. McEnery Charles and Judith McKay James McKibben Julie McLaughlin David Morphy and H. Jean McMillin Diane McQuaid and Family Shelley McQuown Namon McWilliams Brenda McWilliams Deborah Meyer Lindsey Miller Karen Miller Gary and Cindy Miller

Lillian and Robert Minichelli Judith L. Minichelli John V. Minton III Hill, Barth & King LLC Mark Mittelmeier Teresa Mooradian Terry and Cheryl Moore Sharon E. Morey Susan L. Morgan Frank “Francis” Mouyard Carolyn Mraz Dawna T. Mughal, PhD, RDN Joanne Munzert Dorothy Elizabeth Murphy Nancy Murray and Friends James and Donna Natalo Shelby Neal Dorothy J. Negro Lori Nestor Erick and Stacey Nicklas Marian Nicks Jeffrey and Julie Nicolia Peter and Eileen Nill Barrie Jones Nolan Janet Nowak Gerald and Dionne Oakley Sue and Jim Ohrn Mike and Becky Okel Nancy O’Neill Liz Opp Joseph and Susan Orinko Rita A. Orzel Pauline A. Osmer Kim and Pam Parker Susan Parry Gregory Passauer Marti Pastore Janet M. Pawlowski Lee Penman Anne Perkin Perkins Jack and Valerie Pesta Steven Parker and Roberta Peters Joan Peterson Peterson’s Property Maintenance, Inc. Christine Phillips

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Judy Pisano Joseph and Marjorie Podolsky Barbara Pollock Frank and Jane Pregler PSN Labs Holli Pulice-Lewis Beth Racine Steve and Mary Radack Barbara Reagan M. Redenius Adam and Erin Reese Marilyn Agresti Renkes Sunset Optics Ellen and Lou Richards David R. Robertshaw Barbara Roseborough Gregory and Erin Ross Carolyn Ruth James and Mary Rutkowski Ravi Sabherwal Anthony and Wanda Salvia Mr. and Mrs. Charles Santi Suzanne Scarpino Lynda and Allen Sceiford Rev. Bob and Shirley Schell Robin Scheppner Kathleen Scheppner Suzanne Scheuer Leone Paul and Rita Schmitt Charles and Charlene Schroeck Desirae Scott Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Scouten Steve and Ann Scutella Jan Seaman The Semple Family Barbara and Gary Shapira Marilyn A. Sharp Rochelle Sheridan Lee and Mary Simmons Marybeth Smialek Miles and Karen Sonney Cheryl A. Spizarny Karen A. Staab, Ph.D. Linda Laird Staszewski Stacey Steen Michael V. Stewart

Jim and Sharon Stoik Mrs. Carla Storrs David and Deborah Stubenhofer Diane and Jim Swalley Chuck and Adrienne Feronti Scott and Karol Taylor Andy and Pat Tellers Dan and Mary Ann Tempestini Christine and Mark Terrell Jane Thiemann Judith Thomas Greenscape Lawn and Garden Service Inc. Mary Tobin Sigma Toth Marlene and Jerry Trambley Renee Triana Renee and Kevin Uht Stephen and Mary Jean Urash Jack and Barb Voytko Barbara Wagner Gordon H. Walk Steve and Vicki Washek E. Shawn Waskiewicz Kathleen L. Watson Mary Weber Victoria E. Weber John and Evelyn Wedzikowski Don Werle Patrick Weschler Sr. Patricia Whalen Scott and Linda Whalen Gwendolyn White John and Annette Widomski Carol Wieczorek Rena G. Wierbinski Janice K. Wittmershaus Paul and Nicole Wojcik Caryn Wolfe Ted Wood & Associates DMW Fran and Joe Zaczyk Diana Ziemniak * deceased

Butterfly Effect Celebration

Our signature event, the Butterfly Effect Celebration, wraps up summer as we venture outdoors to enjoy the sun and warmth.

Each year, we gather in the beautiful and landscaped backyard of the Mercy Center. The Mercy mission mirrors the life cycle of a butterfly and the women and children arriving full circle in their recovery.

At this event, we honor our loved ones, both with us and deceased. The simple release of a butterfly taking flight brings smiles to our children’s faces. There are butterflies that wish to linger a little longer on the earth’s surface before taking flight.

Eventually they find their wings and up, up, and away. Music, prayers, and community unites us through the smiles and tears of the day.

PEDAL for Pedal for Mercy MERCY

Pedal for Mercy 2021 Sponsors

Sponsors & Donors

AHN Saint Vincent Carl and Nicole Brugger Erie County Gaming and Revenue Authority Frontier General Contracting, Inc. Hamot Health Foundation Highmark Justin Beck, RE/MAX Real Estate Group RBC Wealth Management The Plastek Group UPMC Health Plan Velocity Network, Inc.

Closer to fall, our inaugural Pedal for Mercy took place as more than 100 cyclists took to the road. A spectacular day in North East, Pa. that included vineyards, wineries, uphill climbs, and breathtaking views near Findley Lake bring. This event is new to the Mercy Center but aligns with our mission. In life we pedal forward through good and bad times. We conquer hills and take pleasure on flat roads. Pedal for Mercy is for everyone. The routes are different and take you to the destination of your choice.

After cycling, we met back at Penn Shore Winery and Vineyards to enjoy food, music, and friendship. We are grateful to the many sponsors, riders, and in-kind contributions. The event raised awareness of our mission while raising funds to keep it a safe haven for women and children experiencing homelessness.

Pedal for Mercy cyclists Dan and Courtney Hagerty take a moment to pose near a sign commemorating their infant daughter Ryleigh Rose.

Ryleigh taught us the meaning of resiliency as she fought but eventually succumbed to a rare heart condition last summer.

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Women Making History

Women Making History 2022 Sponsors & Donors Catherine McAuley RSM Level Anonymous

The Mercy Center for Women begins each year of special events with Women Making History. This seems appropriate as women are the core of our mission. We relish reading the nominations as they filter in. It is indeed a privilege as we appreciate the influence these women have on lives near and far. We realize this is not a popularity contest, but a humbling recognition of someone's work that is well-deserving.

Sojourner Truth Level Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and AHN-Saint Vincent Hospital PNC Bank Martha Washington Level The Erie Community Foundation Lincoln Recycling Dr. and Mrs. Thomas A. Wittmann

Hundreds of people gather each year to share an evening in March to celebrate 12 remarkable women. Our sponsorship partners provide the financial resources that ensures a memorable evening for all. The lesson our residents take away is that serving others with a kind and gentle heart is a rare characteristic. The schoolteacher who pours her heart into educating a special needs child, or nurse who cares for a sick infant in need of a transplant. These are women of honor and strength. Their service mirrors the mission of the Sisters of Mercy. The Mercy charism which focuses on the critical concerns of women and children is most evident in these honorees we call heroes.

Clara Barton Level Edinboro University of Pennsylvania Premier Conduit, Inc. Thomas W. Elward Printing Concepts Erie County District Attorney’s Office Sisters of Mercy Erie County Gaming Revenue Sisters of St. Joseph Authority SSI Collaborative Erie Insurance The Murphy Advisory Group/ Frontier General Contracting, Inc. UBS Financial Services, Inc. Mercyhurst Preparatory School UPMC Health Plan Mercyhurst University National Fuel Friends of Women Making History Dahlkemper's Jewelry Connection Jennie & Chris Hagerty Joseph McCormick Construction Co., Inc. Lillis, McKibben, Bongiovanni & Co. Lorei Portraits

Women Making History 2022 Honorees include, front row, from left, Penny Johnson, Amparito Hernandez, and Karen Tyler. Second row, from left, are Mary Kay Eisert-Wlodarczyk, Annette Wittmann, and Mary Bula. Standing, from left, are Karen Seggi, Susannah Weis Frigon, Sister Michele Schroeck, Katrina Byrd, Elizabeth Edwards-Steen, and Marybelle Martin.

Women Making History 2022 Honorees Mary C. Bula Katrina L. Byrd Elizabeth Edwards-Steen Mary Kay Eisert-Wlodarczyk Susannah Weis Frigon Amparito Hernandez Penny Johnson Marybelle Martin Sr. Michele Schroeck, RSM Karen Seggi Dr. Karen Tyler Annette Wittmann

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Judith Lynch Alyson Amendola Wilhelm & Peggy Maier Catherine Anderson Luther & Connie Manus Anonymous Nancy Marchini David & Shelly Benjamin In Honor of Annette Wittmann Namon & Brenda McWilliams Tina Mengine Dr. Kathleen Benson Dawna Torres Mughal, PhD, RDN Malinda Bostick Marti Pastore Maureen Barber Carey In Honor of Sue Gerke Julie Chacona Lee Penman Edith Coccarelli Christine H. McClure & R. Perrin Baker Christine Colao-Nickson Reverend Bob & Shirley Schell Kimberly Connelly Sr. Phyllis Schleicher Reverend Cheryl Corneliussen In Memory of Sr. Mary H. Hoffman, OSB Joyce Crishock Karen & Eric Seggi Thomas & Kathleen Dailey Kimberly Sisti In Honor of Dr. Karen Tyler In Honor of Dr. Karen Tyler Lou & Ellen DiPlacido Pattie Stempka Alice Edwards In Honor of Penny Blankenship Johnson Elizabeth Edwards- Steen Daniel & Mary Ann Tempestini Thomas Elward Linda Thompson Carlyle & Jackie Ennis In Memory of Dorothy Gianoni Mary Ann & Frank Fabin Tim & Pat Tracy Maryann Flaherty In Honor of Chris Detar Dorothy Smith Frazier Ann Tredway Sr. Mary Fromknecht, SSJ Deacon Stephen & Vicki Washek Jon & Mary Fuhrman Mary & Kenneth Weber Dr. Melissa Gibson Michele Wheaton Charles & Dorothy Glover In Memory of Camille Kutz Elisa Guida Dr. & Mrs. Thomas A. Wittmann Mary Hoffman In Memory of Lucille & Wm. Wittmann Horticyclist Bicycle Group In Honor of Susannah Weis Frigon Linda L. King Julie Kresge Ed Lesser & Mary Ellen Dahlkemper Barbara & Robert Lewis

Sisters of Success

Sisters of Success 2022

The month of May is not only a month to honor mothers, but also a time to pay tribute to those with traits of compassion, strength, and devotion.

Dr. Christine Agnello Catherine A. Anderson Ann J. Baloga Sr. Jean Baptiste, SSJ Aimee Baumann Diane G. Baumgardner Lisa Baumgardner Carolyn M. Beck Lydia Borowy Constance Brereton Elizabeth (Lisa) Bryson Kathleen Burik Mary P. Cardot Maureen Chadwick Lisa B. Chinsky Jane Connors Kathy Dahlkemper Jess Dunkel Alice Edwards Nicole M. Ehrman In Memory of Mary Eisert Lynne M. Elia Brenda Good Mary Graziano Jennie Hagerty Catherine Hall Ann Halupczynski Nadia Harvard

The Mercy Center for Women has a tradition of identifying Sisters of Success in May, women who are celebrated for the love they bring to their family, work, and community.

We appreciate these women whose loved ones honored them as the Mercy Center for Women's Sisters of Success.

Nancy R. Kern Sharon Kiessling Gay Kilmer Koldrock Waters Kim Krespan Barbara Lechner Mary Ann Little MacDonald Illig Attorneys Christine Merz Colleen Mezler Ann L. Miller Darcie Moseley Mimi O'Connor Christina Ohmer Barbara R. Pollock Marilyn E. Reiser Kelley Schultz Mrs. Ellie Scibetta Barbara S. Shapira Sisters of Mercy (living & deceased) Cheryl Stewart Staff at New Directions Health Care Dr. Karen Tyler Lauren Unger Donna L. Walkow Gwendolyn White Annette Wittmann

Erie Federal Credit Union employees assemble display racks for Dress for Success Erie's new and improved space in the Mercy Anchor Community Center.

The credit union is one of many volunteer groups who partner with the Mercy Center and its Dress for Success program.

Dress for Success Suitings FY2021-22

ERIE

clothing, however. These women enter the boutique with little hope. They leave with confidence, opportunity, and gratitude, suited by passionate women, and provided with successful interviewing tips. In early 2023, DFSE will open a different door to welcome clients. As a part of the Mercy Anchor Community Center, the program will partner with other providers to offer wraparound services to individuals in the community. Through a generous bequest restricted to DFSE and capital campaign funding, Dress for Success will finally have a home of its own.

Their space will be bright with a storefront appearance, offices, and technology for job seekers.

In 2008, the Sisters of Mercy took a leap of faith. Dress for Success Worldwide was in active pursuit of a new location. It seemed only natural for the Sisters to take on this endeavor as the program helps women prepare for employment. Mary Graziano, then volunteer coordinator at the Mercy Center at the time, found her new home as the director at Dress for Success Erie, now an extension of the Mercy Center. The program offers job readiness training, resume building, and a wardrobe for interviews.

The program, located on the lower level of a duplex near the Mercy Center, has served this community for 14 years. The charming boutique embraced clientele who entered its doors, a humble setting that has served hundreds of women with generous clothing and accessories from the Erie community.

The Mercy Center clients preparing for interviews also benefitted from Mary and her team. It is not all about the

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The Sisters of Mercy provided a home to Dress for Success Erie, a program that enhances the quality of life of women seeking a better life filled with opportunity and goals.

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Tax Credit Programs Provide

$817,500 for New Center

Several local businesses partnered with the Mercy Center by participating in the Commonwealth's Special Program Priorities (SPP) and Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) which provided $817,500 for the Mercy Anchor Community Center. Those businesses that participated in SPP received a 75% tax credit; those that participated in NAP received a 55% tax credit.

Both tax credit programs provide a sizable tax advantage to businesses that share the mission of the Mercy Center: To provide housing and wraparound services to individuals facing homelessness, domestic abuse, and addiction recovery in our community.

This is one way your gift will impact growth and a sustainable future for our residents. A building transformation to “hub” housing and community programming is essential in Erie County. How can you become involved? Contact Jennie Hagerty at jhagerty@mcwerie.org to learn more.

Marking one of northwestern Pennsylvania's largest economic development tax credit awards to a nonprofit are, from left, Anita Kuchcinski, senior vice president of Erie commercial market at Northwest Bank, Erie Mayor Joe Schember, Jennie Hagerty, executive director of Mercy Center for Women, Dennis Davin, secretary of Department of Community and Economic Development, Laura Guncheon, vice president of Erie Management Group/Calypso Enterprises, and PJ Monella, Mercy Center board member. The Mercy Center received tax program funds for MACC from six companies that took part in the program.

Neighborhood Assistance Program Participants

Volunteer Program

Accudyn Products, Inc. American Tinning & Galvanizing Co. Calypso Enterprises, LLC Erie Insurance Group Marquette Savings Bank Northwest Bank

The volunteer program at the Mercy Center for Women has been expanding in recent years and we are grateful as our needs have increased as well. Not only does the center rely on individual volunteers who regularly assist in our office, but groups from schools, churches, youth organizations, and companies have helped with activities such as painting, yardwork, moving, holiday parties, special events, and child care. Those wishing to volunteer should contact the Mercy Center and ask to speak with the volunteer coordinator.

Event Sponsorship

The Mercy Center for Women hosts several events throughout the year to increase awareness and funds for its mission.

Sponsorship of these events help defray costs while also supporting our work. In return for sponsorship dollars, companies and individuals receive public recognition at the event and on social media both before and after the event. The Mercy Center is grateful for sponsorship as this support allows it to keep its doors open for those who are homeless and in need.

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VISION 2020 Capital Campaign

Summer 2020

2004 The Holy Rosary School closes its doors.

2015 GECAC Head Start program begins service delivery in the former school building.

The Mercy Center for Women purchases the 39,000 sq. ft. former Holy Rosary School from the Holy Rosary Parish for $300,000.

2017 GECAC Head Start program closes at this location.

The Mercy Center kicks off Vision 2020 Capital Campaign which would raise $4.3M for the project targeted for Erie's homeless population.

A grant from the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority provides funding for asbestos and lead removal.

Doubling our capacity Mercy Anchor Community Center (MACC) | 1012 E. 28th St. | Erie, Pa.

"I can think of no other undertaking in our Institute, the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, that better exemplifies the Sisters of Mercy's four core values of spirituality, community, service, and action and our critical concerns of nonviolence, earth, immigration, racism and women, than this project." - Sr. Patricia Whalen, RSM

Preliminary renovation work begins to convert classrooms, library and cafeteria into 13 twobedroom apartments, community and conference rooms, technology center, food pantry, thrift shop, and satellite offices for community organizations.

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2021

2021 Tours of the project with elected officials and community leaders continue in an effort to acquire additional support and address homelessness issues in the Erie community.

2021

2022

The Secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development visits MACC to see progress firsthand and to announce more than $800,000 earmarked for the project as part of the department's Neighborhood Assistance Program.

Erie County Gaming and Revenue provides funding for the center's community garden which will include space for community members to plant fruits and vegetables.

2022 The two Mercy Center programs will house as many as 64 residents; 32 in the transitional housing program for up to one year, and 32 additional residents in MACC for up to two years.

to serve Erie's homeless

Renovation continues despite a pandemic which slows labor, delays product shipments, and increases costs.

2021

Because the building was built in 1947, its water pipes needed replaced. Other structural components such as windows, flooring, staircases, and bannisters did not require replacement. The adjoining commercial kitchen and gymnasium received minor updating.

2021

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The MACC community garden project is one of just 100 nationally that was awarded $25,000 from the State Farm Neighborhood Assist program. More than 4,000 projects vied for funding whose criteria is to build stronger neighborhoods through collaboration.

2022

Mercy Center's transitional housing program will continue to house women and children experiencing homelessness. MACC will broaden residency to include males and their families. Primary health care and behavioral health services will also be available in the building's lower level.

2022

Mercy Center staff, residents, and board members provide a Thanksgiving meal complete with blessing bags to more than 175 guests of the Erie City Mission.

Residents plant and maintain a garden and use the vegetables when preparing their meals.

In addition to growing vegetables, residents including children also mow the lawn, trim, and weed.

Each summer, residents spend a day enjoying the great outdoors thanks to the generosity of YMCA Camp Sherwin.

Creating a safe home The Mercy Center celebrates its new Book Nook, thanks to WQLN PBS, AmeriHealth Caritas, and Hooked On Books For Kids. The donation included a custom-built book nook complete with books, iPads, television, and bean bag chairs.

The Mercy Center partners with The Primary Health Network by holding a health fair. The event was the Mercy Center's first community event in the renovated MACC building.

Summertime is full of activities for residents who enjoy holiday barbeques, picnics, and days at the beach.

Residents get to explore their creative side at Claytopia thanks to the generosity of donors.

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Therapy Dogs United makes monthly visits to the Mercy Center which residents and staff alike look forward to.

Donated furniture is given new life thanks to artists who took part in our furniture auction at Erie Center for Arts and Technology last winter.

The pastoral team from Wayside Presbyterian Church invites our executive director to share the Mercy Center mission with a group of senior parishioners.

Staff ensure residents' birthdays and holidays are made extra special, sometimes with the aid of volunteer groups and an occasional pet.

The director of The Pardon Project, a statewide initiative of the Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity (PLSE), explains the pardon application process for residents whose criminal records are holding them back from achieving their social and career potentials. Local attorneys, educators, and Mercy Center clients, board and staff participated. The session was held at the Mercy Center and was also carried via Zoom.

and connections within our community Residents and clients take part in the annual Erie County Crop Walk which focuses on ending hunger in Erie County and around the world.

A representative of The Midnight Mission, a large homeless shelter and homeless services provider serving the Los Angeles community, visits the Mercy Center to share best practices.

Sharing a pottery class are members of Attorneys & Kids Together and Mercy Center residents. The program's purpose is to support the educational needs of students living in homeless situations.

Residents and staff take time to enjoy the beauty of nature at Wintergreen Gorge.

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Financial Overview

FY 2021-22 Where the money comes from Investment Return - 11.6%

Grants 20.7%

Special Events and Fundraising 4.5%

Client Services Fees 0.8% In-Kind Donations 6.8% Donations In-Kind 6.8% General General Contributions Contributions 14.9%14.9%

Capital Campaign Contributions 11.6%

Sources Grants $ 582,964 General Contributions 419,805 NAP Contributions 817,500 Capital Campaign Contributions 326,577 Donations In-Kind 190,851 Client Service Fees 21,350 Special Events and Fundraising 127,120 Investment Return (326,514) Total Revenues $2,159,653 Grants Received PA Workwear Grant $ 120,916 PA Housing Affordability & Rehab. Enhancement Grant 300,000 Other Grants 162,048 Total Grants $ 582,964

NAP Contributions 29.1%

Where the money goes

Fundraising 3.2%

Distribution Program Services Management & General Fundraising Total Expenses

Management and General 28%

$ 938,364 381,652 43,387 $1,363,403

Program Services 68.8%

*Based on audited financial statements

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Client Services Director Retires Served for 15 years

When Carla Storrs first came to the Mercy Center for Women, she worked weekends as a house manager while also pursuing her college degree. Before long, her leadership skills and knowledge became apparent as she took on more responsibilities in increasing leadership positions. The staff and residents alike could always rely on Carla for her toughness when needed, but also for her compassion and concern for the person. Her contributions at the Mercy Center were many and she will remain a part of our family for life.

Carla educated me on strength and setting boundaries.

She pursued her master’s degree and LCSW to provide guidance to those we serve. Thank you, Miss Carla, for the gift of your presence. You are a blessing to many lives.

Thank you for sharing your heart with the Mercy Center for Women. The door remains open for you to return as our friend. -Jennie Hagerty

Carla Storrs, LCSW

compassionate FAIR &

What Jennie and the board have done is taken the Mercy Center to the next level. To make a difference in your work, you have to have passion. This work is my ministry. People are a product of their environment, and we have no idea what they have experienced. Everyone has a story to tell and should to be treated with dignity and respect. We need to show mercy. - Carla Storrs

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The Sisters of Mercy

Guiding our path forward Sister also believes our mission has become more well known in recent years, which she believes has been helpful. Thanks to the support the Mercy Center has received, especially from women, and the grants secured, the Mercy Center's finances have stabilized, too. She is pleased to see the high level of proficiency of the Center's employees and their dedication to the mission.

The Mercy Sisters and their future Transformations are occurring in religious life, too, as fewer men and women are committing their life as priests or nuns.

According to a recent study, less than 1% of nuns in America are under 40 and the average sister is 80 years old.

Sister Patricia Whalen, RSM Mercy Center board member

Sister Patricia doesn’t seem fazed by the trend and believes that "we get what we need when we need it, and we have to trust in God's divine providence." She added, “Religious life is countercultural, it’s not the norm."

It’s true, that saying: “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”

“We planted the seeds for many systems which are in still in place and our ministries there are flourishing. From hospitals to colleges and universities, high schools and elementary schools and our social, pastoral, and spirituality ministries, the Sisters’ influence in establishing those institutions has taken root,” said Sister.

When the Sisters of Mercy had the foresight in 1984 to protect local homeless women by purchasing a five-bedroom home on Erie’s lower westside, they created a legacy of caring that is still flourishing 38 years later.

Sister JoAnne Courneen, RSM and Sister Patricia Whalen, RSM lived at Hope House when it first opened. Hope House later became the Mercy Center for Women. According to Sister Patricia, the experience was life changing—for her and for the families it served.

She believes that energies are now being put into community programs that help people here and now—places like soup kitchens, neighborhood networks, art houses, and housing for the homeless.

Sister Patricia, a board member of the Mercy Center for Women, has participated in numerous ministries that assist the poor and has been an effective servant leader in various capacities for more than 60 years, reflects on those early years.

“The societal needs we saw when these institutions were first created are vastly different than they are now,” she reflected.

“The Sisters are still involved in these institutions, but in a more supportive role. They/we are ensuring the Catholic mission and identity and Mercy heritage are still being honored there. That’s our role today.”

“It was definitely a learning curve,” she said. “We kept a peaceful house. The women were safe.”

“In 2021, we sold a portion of the motherhouse to Mercyhurst University,” she says. “The University’s needs are growing, and they need the space. We have a home there that includes a Care Center for our senior sisters who receive nursing services,” she says. “And for that we are truly blessed.”

In that sense, not much has changed as maintaining a safe home remains a top priority at the Mercy Center. Another constant is the Center's ability to evaluate the needs of the women it serves and adjust programming to meet those needs.

In other ways, much has changed. Today, as the Mercy Center embarks on the next phase of its mission, more people experiencing homelessness will have access to housing, including men, in the Mercy Anchor Community Center. With the new program, the Mercy Center will double its occupancy capacity to 64 individuals and become a resource hub for the surrounding community.

The Mercy Center for Women is fortunate to have the guiding hands of two Sisters of Mercy on our board of directors: Sister Patricia Whalen, RSM, and Sister Michele Schroeck, RSM. And for that we are blessed.

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The Power of Painting

Impacting their community His story begins with a sentence. A sentence that went on and on and on, for 26 1/2 years.

Antonio Howard’s lengthy prison sentence at age 15 was punishment for his involvement with a group of teenagers that resulted in an Erie cab driver’s death. It was also the beginning of his transformation into an artist and writer. The learning process, as he called it, changed his character from that of an angry juvenile with low self-esteem into a man with regained dignity, independence, and hope for a brighter future. It’s a process he now wants to give back to the Erie community as he did most recently with the Mercy Center for Women.

Regaining one’s dignity, independence, and hope are uncannily mirrored not only in the wall-sized mural Antonio and his wife Sarah created at the Center, but also in Mercy Center’s mission.

“Enhancing the dignity of each person it serves through healing of mind, body, and spirit, is our primary purpose,” said Center Executive Director Jennie Hagerty. “And this painting absolutely reflects it.”

Sarah and Antonio Howard Artists, community collaborators

At the Mercy Center, a half-dozen or so residents helped paint.

Like most people invited to participate, they resisted at first, saying they didn’t know how to paint. As they began, however, the power of the process was evident. “The women realized they could paint,” said Antonio. “They were proud to learn to do something they had never done before. Their opinions mattered, for example, in choice of colors. They committed to something others will see, something permanent. They regained some self-confidence, some dignity.”

Those who view the mural first see it as an aesthetic work of art, said Antonio. But it’s the process of creating it that is truly beautiful, he explained. The mural depicts diverse faces, reflecting the makeup of the women who live at the Mercy Center for Women. Its colorful butterflies reflect hope. They also reflect the gentle, caring process that a butterfly goes through while becoming transformed, he said. Blue was chosen as the background color, added Sarah, “as blue signifies joy.”

“Even more important,” said Antonio, "the process of painting our murals is a great equalizer. When individuals join a group to help paint, it doesn’t matter who you are,” he explained.

“People develop relationships, gain a better understanding of each other, and develop positive bonds that continue when the project is done,” he said. “These qualities can transform a neighborhood, a city. We believe they can help bring a community together.”

Antonio recalled his own process of transformation. “When I was first in prison, I was an angry, no-good kid, unworthy of freedom, according to the prison staff and to myself! Then, after developing painting skills, all of a sudden I was seen as ‘Antonio, the guy who can paint,’ in the minds of my captors.

That’s when I first realized the power of painting.”

Having a positive community impact is now their main goal when Antonio and Sarah accept mural requests. “It was harder to do when we had no or few mural opportunities,” Antonio admitted. “But now we can be more intentional with the ones we choose.”

Antonio remembers how low he felt when he sees others in situations such as homelessness, which all women who live at the Mercy Center have experienced. “They’ve been belittled and looked down upon – robbed of their dignity,” he empathized.

Though Antonio is better known now as an artist, painting is not the only creative outlet he shares with the public. He’s written three books, most notably, "When a Child is Worth More Than the Worst Mistake He Ever Made", which are available through Amazon. Continuing his life’s story, however, he sees his visual art through murals as the more effective way to help his hometown of Erie. “I want them to make a difference.”

He also recalls the power of the learning process. His own involved reading dozens of instructional books to improve his painting skills. Since he began painting murals, following his prison release in May of 2018, he’s shared his insights on painting, learning, and the transformational results that can come from each. He and Sarah design murals with input from the client and by applying their own experiences to make them more impactful. They invite others, “the community around them,” Antonio said, “to do the painting.”

The Pardon Project In addition to a beautiful and meaningful mural, Antonio Howard shared his knowledge of the Pardon Project with the Mercy Center for Women.

It’s a program that can benefit residents of the Center, some of whom have committed minor criminal offenses, which stymy their ability to find apartments. Pardon Project coaches, such as Antonio, help teach individuals how to file for commutation of their sentences in order to clear their records. Pardon Project also makes non-profit staff members aware of the process, so they can better serve their clients.

For more information about the Pardon Project, email pardonmeerie@gmail.com.

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1039 E. 27th St. Erie PA 16504 (814) 455-4577 mcwerie.org

@MCWerie

Mercy Center for Women

About Our Graduates

FY2021-22

96% Attended mental health and related counseling programs 86% Obtained permanent housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74% Reduced debt 67% Completed substance abuse programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72% Gained income or other income sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Women and children who graduated from MCW and returned to an emergency shelter within the last five yrs . . . .

0%

Mercy Center graduate Lori has found a rewarding career as a peer support specialist with the Mental Health Association.

Lori furthered her education and training after leaving the Mercy Center and is using that knowledge to help others.

Former residents are like family as we continue to share their journeys.