MERCY CENTER FOR WOMEN
Tackling homelessness in Erie thanks to our village
Supporters
Erie City & County Governments
Local Businesses
ANNUAL REPORT FY 2023
Other nonprofits
MACC
Mercy Anchor Community Center
Mercy Center for Women
...men, and children
Mercy Center for Women Board of Trustees & Staff
Lydia Caparosa, Esq. Board Chair
Nicole Brugger Board Vice Chair
Kathleen Burik Secretary
Anthony Keim Treasurer
STAFF Executive Director Jennie Hagerty Director of Client Services Anna Brzozowski Communications, Marketing Director Teresa Borowy Director of Marketing & Advancement Katie Confer Facilities Director Michael Lockhart Dress for Success Erie Program Director Mary Graziano Finance Manager Crystal Lander
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Lydia Caparosa, Esq., Chair Nicole Brugger, Vice Chair Jennie Hagerty, Executive Director Kathleen Burik, Secretary Anthony Keim, Treasurer Brian Arrington Aimee Baumann Niken Astari Carpenter Brenda Good Laura Guncheon District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz Sister Kathleen Ann Kolb, RSM Brandy Krieger Maureen Geary Krowicki, Esq. Emily Merski, Esq. Victoria Merski Kenzie Ryback, Esq, Sister Patricia Whalen, RSM
Melinda Albright, House Manager Toni Barry, Dress for Success Erie Assistant Jim Buffalari, Facilities Assistant Andrea Coleman, Office Coordinator & House Manager Erin Dworakowski, Volunteer Coordinator & Office Manager Latisha Feliciano, House Manager Julianne Weibel Foltz, Special Events & Activities Coordinator Amanda Harmon, Child Care Assistant Regina Johnson, House Manager Linda Marlowe, House Manager Annmarie McLellan, BSW, Case Manager Lindsey Miller, LMSW, Case Manager Holly Nowak, Grants Manager ShaDaira Stovall, House Manager Jill Sznajder, House Manager Mary Tobin, Aftercare Coordinator & House Manager Tiffany Walker, House Manager Evelyn Wesman, House Manager
THE MERCY CENTER PROVIDES Safe and supportive transitional and permanent housing, education, and wraparound services for women, men and children who have experienced homelessness A connection with social service agencies and other community resources with the goal of promoting self-sufficiency, gratitude and responsibility for those we assist An environment based on spirituality and ethical values A network of ongoing support and mentoring after program completion MISSION STATEMENT 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.
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Reflections from the Executive Director
Dear Friends,
For the Mercy Center for Women and Mercy Anchor Community Center, 2023 provided gratitude and reflection. We grew our mission and understood the challenges facing our community. Our footprint grew deeper and our relationships grew stronger.
One of my favorite reads is “The Giving Tree,” by Shel Silverstein. I read this story to my son many times. The tree and the boy walk a journey together. They begin young and end old with much uncertainty along the way.
Unfortunately, there is no perfect remedy for addressing homelessness, domestic abuse and addiction, but there is harmony when we empathize and come together as a community.
“Take my apples, branches, and trunk until I have nothing left to give,” said the tree. And the boy did. Years later he returned to the tree to sit on the stump to rest. The tree was happy, though he had given nearly everything away.
The Mercy Anchor Community Center opened its doors to housing and services in March 2023. We welcomed four families. Dress for Success Erie settled into their new digs. As 2023 progressed, more apartments were rented out and we took our first big step in housing men--quite a triumph and a blessing!
There is no one answer to “what’s next?” but today it is simply to express gratitude to you for the generosity you’ve shared with our women, men and children.
Imagine an atmosphere of safety and opportunity for these families. We partnered with GECAC and their staff is educating individuals on digital literacy and GED coursework. We’re offering AA/NA meetings for the entire community, a food pantry satellite of Second Harvest Food Bank, behavioral health services from Sarah Reed Children’s Center, art therapy sessions with Sarah and Antonio Howard, and Diaper Depot supplies from the Erie Family Center. There are other partnerships and services available at MACC too!
Take time to read the stories our women share with you in this report. Sharing their life story with you can be inspirational! Our childhood, our upbringing is ours and ours alone. Others may not have had the blessings we had which shaped us as adults. Indeed life is not perfect; we’ve all faltered. Life is a gift, so we get back in the saddle and ride our journey to its fullest.
Your generosity created an opportunity to double the size and scope of our mission. We’re continuing our expansion efforts and are working with prison re-entry programs to house individuals after program completion. We have a campus full of life, energy and hope.
The Sisters of Mercy will forever be the heart of this agency which celebrates our 30th anniversary in 2024. Why wait until tomorrow to help make a difference in someone’s life today!
There is no perfect answer to the challenges our Erie community is facing. But working together with empathy for others provides a healthy and positive new beginning for us all.
Smile, Pray, Be Kind
People have asked, “What’s next?” My response is simply this: God calls upon us to open doors, minds and our hearts to forgiveness.
Jennie Hagerty, Executive Director Mercy Center for Women
Years later he returned to the tree to sit on the stump to rest. The tree was happy, though he had given nearly everything away.
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On a personal note Amanda's story Amanda has lived a life of addiction and crime, surrounded by friends who had a large impact on her health and wellbeing. Her environment encouraged her to start using and selling drugs, leading to a life of addiction. Amanda started dabbling in drugs in her late teens, but her use peaked in her late twenties. As a result of her addiction along with other offenses, she was imprisoned for eight years.
“It was terrible to have everything taken away from you and not be around your family or anyone who was important to you,” Amanda said. Amanda’s time in prison became a catalyst for change. “It took a toll on me mentally and I decided that my former life was not what I wanted, so I started taking advantage of programs that were offered, to better myself,” she said.
Amanda, right, and her friend Ciara volunteered at a food and beverage stop at the nonprofit’s Pedal for Mercy cycling event.
During her last three years in prison, Amanda began coursework in cosmetology and service dog training. Seeking a better situation, Amanda chose to fill out an application to come to the Mercy Center where she was accepted into the program.
Amanda recounts their visiting a homeless shelter together. “Just the fact that my daughter does something here with me, that means a lot,” she said. “Mercy Center is helping me with the housing process for a stable, healthy home where my daughter can stay with me for as long as she wants.”
“They just make you feel like you’re worth being helped. When you come here, everyone welcomes you and wants to help you. I’m very grateful,” she shared.
Amanda expressed her desire to continue working with service dogs as animals are her passion. Her goal is to have a healthy home where she can continue pursuing her interests and spend time with her daughter.
Since her time at the Mercy Center, Amanda has applied for work, received medical care and worked on her mental health. She attends weekly programming which helps women learn how to form healthy, long-lasting relationships with one another.
“I just want to thank Miss Jennie and the staff for everything they have done for me. The kindness, the compassion--they go above and beyond to make sure we’re okay,” Amanda said. “I’ve never experienced that in my life. I know that wherever I go or whatever I do, the women here will always be there for me.”
“If you’re having a bad day, they check on you and just make you feel important. I think that’s my favorite part about being here,” she reflected. Amanda’s 16-year-old daughter lives with Amanda’s parents, but is now free to stay with Amanda. Her daughter has never been in the foster care system and she is actively working on gaining custody.
- Katelyn Kruszewski Contributing editor
The kindness, the compassion--they go above and beyond to make sure we’re okay. I’ve never experienced that in my life. Amanda and her 16-year-old daughter Jada, along with other residents and staff, volunteered to serve lunch at The Upper Room.
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On a personal note Cassandra's story “I felt like a pretty, spoiled princess coming here.” Cassandra said she can’t even explain how it feels to live at Mercy Center’s new MACC program, but that sentiment encapsulates her exuberance with being given this opportunity. Cassandra’s journey prior to arriving at the Mercy Center had taken her to several cities across the U.S. where she has experienced tough life lessons she continues to learn from today. Addiction to alcohol, marijuana and meth, a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, three attempted drug overdoses, roommates who took advantage of her, a father who attempted suicide at a young age, and a mother who died of cancer when Cassandra was just 19. These experiences shaped Cassandra’s young life and influenced her decisions as a young person trying her best to survive and enjoy her life.
Cassandra is currently employed at Country Fair. She hopes one day to own a car and work in a professional setting.
In 2019 she took a train to Erie where she decided to quit meth cold turkey. That decision proved to be fruitless as she relapsed twice, finally being admitted into Millcreek Community Hospital’s Behavioral Health Unit. “If I moved my head to the left, I felt it would change the earth,” Cassandra remembers. She then completed a stay at Gage House, an inpatient substance abuse program of Stairways Behavioral Health, which she credits for her recovery.
She doesn’t blame others for many of the situations she found herself in throughout her journey. “I wasn’t totally innocent. I had my part to play,” she says. Cassandra dropped out of school in her senior year of high school and started to work. She moved out of her parents’ home and “threw herself into her work,” especially following the death of her mother. She didn’t eat well and dropped a lot of weight. She wasn’t taking care of herself.
“I look back on those times and realize, I’m not the only one who ended up being hurt,” say Cassandra. “Since coming to the Mercy Center, I feel I’ve done a complete 360 with my life,” she says with a smile. “I’m relying on me now, not others, to keep this roof over my head.”
Cassandra then began to move to various cities with friends and coworkers with whom she’d share an apartment. This cycle would continue for several years and at 26, she returned to Colorado to live with her sister. There she obtained her GED and began to use marijuana, legal in Colorado, but which caused a rift between her and her sister.
Mercy Center aftercare program coordinator reports that Cassandra meets regularly with her and continues to work on a budget. She also keeps her medical appointments and meetings with her therapist to ensure she stays on course.
She moved out of her sister’s place and continued establishing a series of unhealthy living arrangements with friends and coworkers. “This is when I hit my lowest of lows,” she recounts. “My sister wouldn’t even speak to me.”
Cassandra’s father still resides in Colorado but remains a part of her life. “I love the heck out of him,” she says with a sheepish grin. “He only wants what’s best for me.”
Shortly thereafter, a former coworker offered her meth and she accepted which lead her to years of drug addiction. For several years she would cycle which included entering a drug treatment program, coming clean, then relapsing.
Her father is not the only one in Cassandra’s cheering section. She credits the Mercy Center for all the support and strides she has made this past year. “They taught me to create boundaries and to take care of myself first, before I take care of others,” she says. “I’m much more organized and social than I was when I arrived. After my mom passed, I didn’t want to be alone. Now when I’m alone I think, ‘what can I learn about me today?’” Cassandra says there isn’t a day that goes by that she doesn’t recognize and appreciate the opportunity the Mercy Center has given her. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the Mercy Center,” she said. “There is so much good that is finally coming my way.”
One of Cassandra’s passions is diamond art painting. She gives finished pieces as gifts or uses them to decorate her apartment.
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Now when I’m alone I think, ‘what can I learn about me today?’
Residents served FY 2023 The lives impacted Aftercare Program
Residents served at Mercy Center for Women July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023 Women housed, with their children
22
Women housed, no children
17
Children housed
41
TOTAL
80
Women with a mental health diagnosis
69% 69% 31% 77% 13%
History of domestic violence Fleeing a domestic violence situation Drug and/or alcohol dependency Homeless Youth (18-24)
When residents complete programming at the Mercy Center and move into permanent housing, they still have a staff person on whom to rely for support. Staff of Mercy Center’s aftercare program maintain contact with graduates for an extended period, often for several years, to ensure participants maintain housing stability and continue to progress toward self-sufficiency. From providing Thanksgiving meal baskets to sharing encouragement during challenging times, graduates take comfort in maintaining a connection with Mercy Center staff, many of whom experienced homelessness themselves, and provide a safe space for sharing experiences and strategies for success. Aftercare program participants Aftercare families, received Thanksgiving meal Aftercare individuals, received Christmas gifts Community families, received Christmas gifts
22 17 41 80
Thanks to the Attorneys and Kids Together program of the Erie County Bar Association, attorneys volunteer their time and financial resources to ensure children in homeless situations are given experiences to help them grow educationally. A trip to Niagara Falls with the group led one child to exclaim, “This is the best day of my life.”
Niagara Falls, N.Y.
Erie City Mission Erie, Pa.
Residents learn that living an independent life is not about taking, but more about being grateful and giving back. During Thanksgiving time residents, staff and volunteers serve meals and spread kindness to hundreds of guests at the Erie City Mission.
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39 30 150 33
Annual Fund FY 2023 Donors Lynn A. Ackerman Brenda Adams Mark and Gina Adams Ed J. Akers and Carolyn M. Beck Marjorie A. Alberstadt Melinda Albright Giovanna Allen Amazon Smile American Legion Post 571 Catherine Anderson Jeanne Anderson Anonymous Abby Ashton Rebekah Baisch Ann J. Baloga Barb’s Family Learning Daycare LLC Sharla Bardin Jill Barlow Toni and Pat Barry Lois Bartos Thomas and Roberta Batten Candace Battles Denise Bauschard Bryan Bauschard John Beal Virginia Bello Jeanne Bender Chuck and Peggy Bidondo Charlene Bird Susan Black-Keim John and Grace Bliley Gary and Laura Borowy Teresa Borowy Douglas Boudreau Kevin Bright Richard and Victoria Brogdon Martha Brown Carl and Marlene Brugger Anna and Ray Brzozowski Theresa Bucci
Jack Buffington Thomas and Kathleen Burik John Burke Patrick and Leslee Burns Catherine C. Burton James and Tara Buto Dee Verdecchia Byrne Frank and Joanne Cargioli William Carney Daniel and Theresa Casane Janice Castro and Robert Petri Cathedral Preparatory School Julie Chacona Barbara Chambers Charities Aid Foundation of America Charles A Dailey Foundation Sky and Andrew Chernauskas Church of the Nazarene Susan Colvin Bonnie Conley Mike Conley Deni Cooper Cornerstone Construction GS LLC Sandra Covello Michael and Barbara Cross Emily Cummings Antonetta Cupillari B. Scott Kern and Amy Cuzzola-Kern Christine and Ed Dahlkemper Daniel Scarlett German Heritage Society of ErieDANK Chapter 71
Dave Hallman Chevrolet Inc. Katrina Devore Lou and Ellen DiPlacido Francesca and Tony DiSanti Larry Doughty Donna E. Douglass Maryanne and Herbert Down Employee Services Fund of Dr. Gertrude A. Barber Center Inc. Michael and Rebecca Dzurik Jane Earll and Jack Daneri East Erie WOTM Chapter 1555 Linda Hesch Ebach Thomas Elward Philip and Chris English Erie County District Attorney’s Drug Account Erie DAWN Inc. Erie First Assembly of God Erie-Crawford Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO Kathleen Eves Mary Ann and Frank Fabin Cynthia Farabaugh-Hood Connie and Jack Faulkner Darlene and James Feeney Lorianne Feltz Christopher Fenati Donald Fetzner Karen Fijal Cheryl and Karl Filley First Presbyterian Church Kenneth Fleming Michelle and Louis Floros
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Sharyl Fogleboch Mary Forgenie Roberta Forsman Christine Fries Alice Fuhrman Charlotte Fuhrman Fulton Athletic Club Nathan “Dumpling” Gainer Stanley Gajewski Jr. James and Dolores Garvey Rob and Mary Gibson Jon Gingrich William and Patricia Gloekler Charles and Dorothy Glover Martin and Cheryl Goetz Mark and Veronica Golden Catherine Good Grace Church Krista Gray Mary Graziano Gridley Chapter No. 324, O.E.S. Barbara Guelcher Patricia Gustafson James Gutting Constance Hafensteiner Thomas B. Hagen Adrian Hagerty and Caroline Percopo Ellen Hagerty Jennie and Chris Hagerty Michael and Margaret Hagerty Ann and Vinnie Halupczynski Alan and Kathie Hannibal Kyle and Anne Hardner Patricia Hardner
Annual Fund FY 2023 Donors Mercy Center for Women Barbara and Dennis Hart Linda L. Havrilla Suzanne Haynes Kenneth and Brenda Heberle Amanda Hernandez Robert and Sharon Hess Kenneth and Carolyn Hitz Sharon Hogan Holy Redeemer Church/ St. Anthony Church Holy Rosary Catholic Church Jodi Staniunas Hopper Wendy and George Humes Carol Hymiak and Marc Bryant Italian American Women’s Association Oliver Jackson David and Peggy Sue Jacquel Amanda Jantzi Richard Jeffords John Bongiovanni on behalf of the Generational Wealth Management John M. and Gertrude E. Petersen Foundation Katharine Johnston Gale Jordan Peggy Jordano Dawn and Charles Joy Patricia Kasony Melissa Kaster Anne Marie and Matt Keil John and Lana Keith Sheila Kemp Ken Wisniewski Insurance Agency Deborah A. Kendziora Bruce and Bonnie Kern Bruce and Nancy Kern James and Janice King Camry King Kingsley United Methodist Church Knights of Columbus- St. Luke Council #11229 Koldrock Waters Angie Kontur Michele Kownacki Judith Krasnesky Allene Kraus Alex and Julia Kruszewski Chris and Vickie Lampe Crystal Lander Danielle and Rick Lang & Family Urban and Mary Lariccia Janet Laskowski Carol Laskowski Frank and Que Lasky Jr. Joan Lemock Julie V. and Frank A. Leonard Daniel and Marianne Levstek Georgia Lewis Deborah Lint LLR Inc. DBA Lularoe Francis Lombardo
Patricia Long Megan Luke Sue and Tom Luteran Lewis M. Lutton James P. and Mary Margaret Malue Donald and Dian Manross Luther and Connie Manus Marathon Solutions LLC Nancy Marchini Richard Markiewicz Dennis Martin Susan and Gerald Matteson Dr. Linda May Marilyn McDaniel Carrie McGaffick Jeannie McGinley Linda and James McKibben Betty J. McKnight M. Eileen and Marc McLaughlin Annmarie and James McLellan Patrick and Karen McMahon Mary Beth McMann Catherine McMillin Mechanical Contractors Association of WPA Cheryl Melerski Marilyn A. Melhuish* Alina Meltaus Messiah Lutheran Church Amber Miles Ann Miller Judith Minichelli Mark and Lisa Mittelmeier Modern Industries, Inc. JoAnn and David Moore Morlin, Inc. Dixie Morrow Dawna Torres Mughal, PhD, RDN Angela Murosky Genevieve Murray Nancy Nardo Anthony Narus Lisa and Tim NeCastro Network for Good New Directions Healthcare LLC Lori Nikolishen Peter and Eileen Nill Barrie J. and Thomas F. Nolan James Nuber James Ohrn Becky and Mike Okel Nancy O’Neill Susan and James Oskin Theresa Pallardy Sr. Donna Marie Paolini Gregory Passauer Pediatric Hospital Team at UPMC Hamot Lee Penman Anne Perkins Joy and Michael Peters Peterson’s Property Maintenance Inc.
SL Phillips Karen Kraus Phillips and Gregory Phillips Nancy Pianta Trapp Mary and Gerald Pierzynski Judith Pisano Plastics Services Network Barbara Pollock Frances Pontoriero Presque Isle Corvette Club Nancy Quint Real Closing Services, LLC Deanna Renaud Ellen and Patrick Richards David and Marilyn Robertshaw Erin and Gregory Ross John and Beverly Rossi Karen Rugare Natalie Rumball Barbara Ruscitto Theresa Rzepka Erin Parker Samlock and Paul Samlock Charles and Mary Ann Santi John Scalzitti Bob and Shirley Schell Lawrence Schroeck Sr. Michele Schroeck Ruth Schumacher S.E. Schuster Barbara and Rodger Schwartz Bruce and Rose Scouten Ann Marie and Steven Scutella Karen and Eric Seggi Eugene and Cathy Seip Joseph and Juliana Semple Stephen Sensor Erin Siegrist Anna Silvia Father Jerome Simmons Robert Simoneau Sisters of St. Joseph Slovak National Club Charles and Nancy Smith Christine Smith Mrs. Donna C. Smith Patricia L. Smith Kathy Iorio Snow and Tony Snow, MD Mark Spelman St. Gregory’s Wonder Workers The Members of the Congregational Council of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church St. John’s Lutheran Church Marilynn Stadtmiller Starbucks Foundation: Neighborhood Grants Fund Lauren Steele William Steger CWC Central Erie PA- Stonecroft Inc. Matt and Sherry Sweny -8-
Mary Szpara Gerry Tarney Daniel Tennant The 2006 Barrett C. Walker Family Fund of The Erie Community Foundation The Britton Family Foundation The Bruce and K.D. Raimy Fund The Carlson Family Fund of The Erie Community Foundation The Erie Community Foundation The Jane and Sean Hagerty Fund The Kern Family Foundation The Msgr. Robert L. Brugger Fund of the Goldman Sachs Philanthropy Fund Jane and David Thiemann Michael and LeeAnn Thomas Mary Tobin Mary and Thomas Todd Madeleine Trimble Vern Troyer and Kathryn L. Buesink Troyer Alfred and Phyllis Umstead Unitarian Universalist Congregation United Way of Erie County Vorsheck Family Foundation Inc. Sienna Wachter Tiffany Walker Walter Family Fund of The Erie Community Foundation Wayside Presbyterian Church Wayside Presbyterian Women Susan Weiner Charlie and Lulu Weschler Evelyn Wesman Sr. Patricia Whalen, RSM Rena Wierbinski Lisa Winschel Annette and Tom Wittmann George and Debbie Wnukoski David and Kim Wurst Jason Zaczyk Stanley Zagorski James and Elizabeth Zaranek *Deceased
Erie Gives 2022 Donors Erie Gives 2022 The first event of the year was one of the largest fundraisers for the Mercy Center, as it is for most nonprofits. The flurry of mail, emails and TV spots requesting donor support is over, but the impact of this event will be felt for years to come.
During Erie Gives 2022, 418 supporters donated more than $111,000 to the Mercy Center for Women. These are record numbers, both in dollars and donors, and is a testament to the Erie community’s support of the Mercy Center mission.
Although The Erie Community Foundation’s Erie Gives is one day, the hard work on the part of organizations comes every day throughout the year. That is what donors remember when they decide which organizations they’ll support on Erie Gives Day.
Funds from this year’s Erie Gives will go toward providing services which have more than doubled since last year, as unfortunately the need for safe and affordable housing in Erie continues to increase. In one click, donors made a difference in the lives of residents, and in a very direct way, also in the lives of all Erie residents. We are grateful to The Erie Community Foundation staff for their diligent work for months in advance to keep this event alive in Erie. We’re also grateful to our supporters, many of whom donate to the Mercy Center annually. Our organization and constituents are thankful and truly blessed.
Whether it’s the Mercy Center or any other charity, the community sees the work being done day in and day out.
Lynn Ackerman James Adovasio Daniel and Christine Agnello Mary Anne Albaugh, MD and Dennis Borczon, MD Meg Allin Craig and Gina Allison Lisa Anderson Anonymous Kathleen Anysz Kim Arvickson Margaret Balter Loretta R. Baran Joe and Lori Barber Jeannette Barczynski Brittany Barko Krugger Tim and Mary Barrett Toni and Pat Barry Candace Battles Aimee Baumann Lisa Baumgardner Frances * and Samuel Beason Patricia Bennett Danielle Bentley Anita Bernstein Beute & Bliley, Inc. Jeff and Lydia Bevacqua Kathryn A. Bills Linda Binney Mrs. Dorothy Bloom
Mike and Joan Carneval Niken Carpenter Daniel and Theresa Casane Janice Castro and Robert Petri Jane Causgrove Meg and Brian Celidonia Greg and Linda Cermak Julie A. Chacona Cheryl A. Chiota Carol Christie John and Loretta Clark Julie Cohen Louis F. Colaizzo James and Patricia Kowalski Colvin Deanne Comi Bonnie Conley Frontier General Contracting, Inc. Kevin and Dorothy Cooney Jerry A. Coppersmith Rusty Cunningham John and Meghan Curtin Curtze Food Service Amy Cuzzola-Kern MaryEllen Dahlkemper and Ed Lesser* Jim and Kathy Dammeyer Jack Daneri Thomas and Mary Beth Danowski Amy M. Daugherty Jackie DeFazio Paul and Janet Demjanenko Mark and Amy Denlinger Marie Desser Angie and Chuck Devine Dr. Richard and Sally DiBacco Leah and David Dieteman, MD Beverly DiNicola David and Jennifer DiNicola Ellen DiPlacido Ernest and Elizabeth DiSantis
Peg and Tom Bly Sandra Bock Brian Bolash Diana and Chuck Bool Gary and Laura Borowy Teresa Borowy Lois Borowy Randy and Barbara Bowers Virginia Boyer Ken and Irene Brasington Colleen and Tom Brennan Jeff and Amy Brinling Deacon Dick and Victoria Brogdon Biddy Brooks Candy C. Brown Nicole and Carl Brugger Anna Brzozowski J. Anthony Buffalari Lisa R. Buffalari Katheryn Buffington Mary C. Bula Ginnie Burger Tom and Kathy Burik Carol J. Byler Diane Verdecchia Byrne Lydia H. Caparosa The Carbo Family Mary and Willis Cardot Gloria Carlson MRC Transportation LLC
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Dr. Adrienne Dixon Donna E. Douglass Maryanne Down Martin and Jeanne Drabic Gretchen Gallagher Durney Maureen Quinn Dwyer Natalie Dwyer-Haller Christopher and Maria Ehrman Patricia English George Espy Frank and Mary Ann Fabin Ken and Monica Fanazini Kayla Fatica Fr. Jason Feigh Lorianne (LA) Feltz Sean and Lynnette Ferry Betty Forish Mary Frisina and Barbara Lennon Gary and Mary Pat Froehlich Terry and Maryann Frontino Les and Violet Frost Deborah J. Fuller Lawrence Furey Esther M. Gallaher Louise Garrelts Mr. and Mrs. James W. Garvey Gordon and Martha Gehrlein James and Joan Gehrlein Patricia B. Genung Rob and Mary Gibson Melissa Gibson Jane and Peter Gilewicz Tony and Carol Gilmore Patricia Gloekler Edward and Rita Goebel Catherine Good Mary Graziano Susan Greenaway Christopher and Valerie Greene
Erie Gives 2022 Donors Donna M. Grenberg Tom Guelcher Laura Guncheon and Derek Zawacki Shirlee Kirk Haden Aimee and Boo Hagerty Christopher and Jennie Hagerty John Hagerty Gary and Connie Haibach Michael and Patricia Hall Melinda Hall and Nathan Royster Alan and Kathie Hannibal John Haschalk Amee Herdzik Nancy Herold Janice Hill Elizabeth Hirz Edward and Sandra Hodas Candy Hoover Jennie Hutchison David and Carol Hutzel Huzar Club Jane S. Hynes Jerry Infantino Kathy Iorio and Dr. Tony Snow Rev. John Jacquel Kelley Jacquel Kathy Jamison J. Robert Jaworski Farms Jerra Jenrette and Patricia Hillman Robert and Penny* Johnson Linda M. Johnson Katharine Johnston Nancy A. Jordan George and Tina Joseph Molly Joyce David R. and Mary Kay Kalivoda Wally and Brenda Kanonczyk Michael and Diane Keim Sandra and John Kempisty Tom Kennedy Rebecca Kightlinger Dennis and Kathryn Kitchen Angie Kontur Rev. Gerald Koos Joan Kowalewski Allene Kraus Fr. Dan Kresinski* Joy Kronenberger David C. Krumpe Dr. and Mrs. Dave Kruszewski Mrs. Mary and Mr. Kris Kubiak Joanne and Howard Kubinski Mary Kuhar-Rinke Tracy Kunik Mr. Robert and Mrs. Patricia Lacy Crystal Lander BJ and Barb Lechner Nick and Mercedes Leofsky Suzanne Scheuer Leone Marie Lesh Laura Lewis Leona Liebel Katie Malue Lion Mike Lockhart Deborah Lopez
Paul and Gretchen Lorei Sharon and Roger Lorei Marilyn LoSapio Marcia R. Lowes Al and Josie Lubiejewski Rita Lucas Theresa M. Lucas Mark and Diane Lugin Sue and Tom Luteran Linda Lutterbaugh Judy Lynch Jim and Jennifer Lyons Nancy Mack Dee Madura Deborah and Rick Majewski Maleno Family Limited Partnership James and Mary Margaret Malue Margaret Mango Patricia M. Mannarelli Constance Manus Robin and Dan Margosian Jean and Bud Martin Michael P. Martin Elizabeth Martinez-Sotus Bob and Joan Martter Jerry and Susan Matteson Margaret Matthews Joseph Mattis Dr. Linda May Kevin, Barb and Mackenzie Mazon Barry McAndrew Kristine McAndrew Francis J. and Mary T. McBride Christine McClure and Perry Baker Chuck and Deborah McCreadie Gini McDermott and Michael Richardson Karen J. McEnery Mary Alice McGinnis Daria McKay Charles and Judith McKay Annmarie and James McLellan Jean McMillin and David Morphy Shelley M. McQuown Brenda Joyce McWilliams Namon McWilliams Mercy Terrace Apartments Paula Michalegko and Chuck Guagliardi Donna Mikolajczak Gary and Cindy Miller Karen Miller Lindsey Miller John V. Minton III Mark Mittelmeier Elspeth Mizner and Ethan Kibbe P.J. Monella Mark Moore Terry and Cheryl Moore Sharon Morey Miss Susan Morgan Francis X. Mouyard Carolyn and Jim Mraz Dawna Torres Mughal, PhD, RDN Dorothy Elizabeth Murphy
L. Murray Nancy Murray James Natalo Shelby Neal Dorothy J. Negro Lori Nestor New Directions Healthcare Jeffrey and Julie Nicolia Lori Nikolishen Peter and Eileen Nill Holly and Jack Nowak Gary Oehling Mike and Becky Okel John Onderko Nancy O’Neill Elizabeth Opp, CI/CT Joseph and Susan Orinko Pauline Osmer Marge Painter Gregory Passauer Janet M. Pawlowski Lee Penman Anne Perkins Perry Construction Group Jack and Valerie Pesta Roberta C. Peters Jerome and Joan Peterson Peterson’s Property Maintenance, Inc. Judy Pisano Marjorie J. Podolsky Kathleen Polito Barbara Pollock Penny Qualls Beth Racine Steve and Mary Radack Jeanette Rapela Jessie Cofini Rathbun Marilyn Redenius Katelynn Rice Ellen and Lou Richards Employees of Rick Weaver Buick GMC Christine Riehl David Robertshaw Barbara Roseborough Frances R. Rosiak Erin and Gregory Ross Joe Rumberger and Family Carolyn Ruth Ravi Sabherwal Anthony and Wanda Salvia Christine Sanfratello Judi Santi Laura Savelli Lynda and Allen Sceiford Robert and Shirley Schell Robin Scheppner Rita Schmitt Justin and Maryann Scholl Charles and Charlene Schroeck Michele Schroeck, RSM Heather M. Schumacher Janet L. Seaman Ron and Emily Sertz Barbara and Gary Shapira Marilyn Sharp -10-
Cindy Sharrer Rochelle Sheridan Nancy Sherwin Susan Shingle Anna Silvia Lee and Mary Simmons Karen Siverd MayBeth Smialek Kathy and Steve Smicker Darrell Smith Karen and Miles Sonney Karen A. Staab Marilyn Stadmiller Drs. Brian and Kate Stark Linda Laird Staszewski William Steger Jim and Sharon Stoik Carla Storrs Deborah and David Stubenhofer Diane and Jim Swalley Gloria Seietlik-Kieffer Adrienne Swonder Jill Sznajder Scott and Karen Taylor Andy and Pat Tellers Dan and Mary Ann Tempestini Naomi Teperow Stephen Thelin The Plastek Group Judith E. Thomas Kim Thomas Ken and Liz Thompson Mary Tobin Mary Todd Marlene Trambley Renee and Kevin Uht Catherine Vincent Catherine VonBirgelen June Vroman David and Barbara Wagner Gloria S. Walker E. Shawn and Harrison Waskiewicz Mary and Ken Weber Victoria E. Weber Evelyn and John Wedzikowski Donna and Don Werle Sr. Patricia Whalen, RSM Michele Wheaton Rena G. Wierbinski Jane Wilkosz Kenneth Wisniewski Insurance Agency Annette S. Wittmann Janice Wittmershaus Paul and Nicole Wojcik Dr. Janet Rose Wojtalik John and Stephanie Young Fran and Joe Zaczyk Pam and Michael Zaycosky Diana Ziemniak *Deceased
Mission Awareness Events FY 2023 The Lake Erie Fiberarts Guild donated an original piece of art to the Mercy Center for Women at a dedication ceremony at MACC in late August. Additionally, the fiber artists contributed more than 30 pieces of individual artwork that will hang in common areas and individual apartments at the new housing center. The main art piece, shown here, was a group project of the guild and is constructed of handmade paper depicting an abstract tree of life.
Erie Women’s Fund Grant Preservation Erie Award
At the Erie Women’s Fund Summer Celebration in July, a major grant was awarded to the Mercy Center’s Women’s Empowerment Achieve Results (WEAR) project at MACC. Every year, EWF distributes a $100,000 grant to a nonprofit that empowers women and families in the Erie area. To be considered for this major grant, applicants participated in a multi-stage application process over the course of several months. The full EWF membership voted on two finalists; the results were announced for the first time at the evening’s event.
In August, the Mercy Center was presented the 2022 Greater Erie Award from Preservation Erie in the Adaptive Reuse category. The award recognized the repurposing of the vacant Holy Rosary School. The awards are presented annually to "individuals, businesses, or organizations that are exceptional stewards of the physical and cultural landscape that is Greater Erie."
Last summer, a group of Mercy Center residents and staff served lunch to guests of The Upper Room of Erie, a homeless shelter which provides a safe and welcoming place for Erie’s poor and homeless year round. In the days preceding the lunch, residents prepared goulash, sandwiches, and cookies and accepted donations of side dishes, beverages, and snacks. Residents and staff truly enjoy giving back to others in need. It was an eye-opening look at how many people in Erie live.
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Mission Awareness Events FY 2023 Butterfly Effect Celebration In August 2022, the Mercy Center held the Butterfly Effect Celebration on its campus. It’s a simple time for guests to honor loved ones whose spirit has changed lives, while recognizing the transformational nature of life itself. Butterflies are released, prayers are shared and songs are sung--all expressions which signify that life is about change and renewing purpose. Guests, staff, residents and children participated in an afternoon of reflection, socialization and activities.
PEDAL MERCY
for
In September the Mercy Center held its second annual Pedal for Mercy cycling event at Penn Shore Winery & Vineyards in North East, Pa. More than 100 cyclists and 40 volunteers participated in the event. Cyclists chose from three routes across eastern Erie County and finished with a catered lunch and outdoor music at Penn Shore. Physically navigating steep inclines provides cyclists insight into the uphill climb those who are homeless face daily. With empathy for others and action, the Erie community can help improve their journey.
Pedal for Mercy Major Sponsors AHN Saint Vincent Penn Shore Winery & Vineyards AmeriHealth Caritas Premier Conduit Dave Hallman Chevrolet Presque Isle Downs & Casino Frontier General Contracting The Plastek Group Highmark TIA Book Cellar Lincoln Recycling UPMC Health Plan Marathon Energy VNET Fiber
Other Sponsors & Support Ambridge Rose Spa & Salon Arrowhead Wine Cellars Nicole & Carl Brugger & Family Burton-Quinn-Scott Cremation & Funeral Services Country Fair Courtyard Winery Dave and Ruth Dennis Erie Federal Credit Union In honor of Ryleigh Rose Hagerty Juice Jar Congressman Mike Kelly
Cyclist’s safe home Anytown, USA
Penn Shore Winery & Vineyards North East, Pa. -12-
Lillis McKibben Bongiovanni & Co. Matrix Tool Inc. Kris Meekins Morlin, Inc. Lisa NeCastro PopLuck Gourmet Popcorn Red Letter Hospitality Sander's Markets Wegmans Yardmaster of Pennsylvania Yori Wine Cellars
Mission Awareness Events FY 2023 Daily Threads Women’s Thrift Clothing Store
Early 2023 saw the reopening of Mercy Center’s Daily Threads Women’s Thrift Clothing Store now located at MACC. The store offers affordable clothing and accessories for women and is open to the public. Hours of operation may be found on the organization’s website.
ERIE
Total suitings 220 For 15 years, Dress for Success Erie has been helping women become better prepared for employment. The job skills, clients’ life circumstances and business attire have changed greatly in that time. But with fresh approaches, DFS Erie is fortunate to have both long-time partners and new ones, as it continues to empower today’s women to help them achieve economic independence and contentment in work and in life. Now in its new home at MACC, the Mercy Center’s DFS program continues to provide job readiness training, resume building instruction and professional business attire in a beautiful and larger space.
Music Trivia Night Turns out lots of supporters enjoy music trivia. The Mercy Center held its first Music Trivia Night in May and the event sold out. The “funraiser” was held at La Nuova Aurora Society and included great food, beverages, basket raffles and prizes. PNC provided the grand prize to the top team. A repeat performance, Music Trivia Fall 2023 Tour, will be held in late 2023.
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Through its Women Empowered program, participants listen to monthly presentations from successful women who have faced challenges in work and in life, yet persevered. Mercy Center Executive Director Jennie Hagerty shares, “It warms my heart to see Dress for Success in their new home. This was a priority for me back in 2017. The Sisters of Mercy and MCW have been faithful advocates for the DFS mission.”
Mission Awareness Events FY 2023 Erie City Mission Luncheon
In the spirit of giving thanks and with empathy for others, more than 50 staff, residents, volunteers and board members participated in the Mercy Center's Second Annual Thanksgiving Luncheon at the Erie City Mission. In addition to a warm meal, more than 150 guests were given blessing bags, donated by UPMC Health Plan, filled with personal care items, socks, hats, blankets and a gift card. While the event helps others in need, it also reminds Mercy Center residents of everyone's responsibility to show gratitude and kindness regardless of one's own circumstance.
Local artists Sarah and Antonio Howard led a one-of-a-kind wall mural installation involving residents of the Mercy Center. Sarah and Antonio learned more about the residents’ journeys that brought them to the Mercy Center and chose visuals to depict those journeys. Two large walls in the John & Gertrude Petersen Community Room at MACC are adorned with their art. The wall was put together with funding from Erie Arts & Culture.
The outpouring of love for others is apparent every Christmas at the Mercy Center. Residents especially enjoy gifts of special meals and fun events to attend throughout the year.
The Mercy Center is proud to partner with Harvest912 which provides free foot care and new footwear to individuals in Erie who are impacted by homelessness, housing insecurity or severe economic need.
Shortly after renovations to the 39,000 square foot facility were completed, the MACC gymnasium quickly became home to community health clinics and job fairs. Vendors appreciate the well-lit, open space and ample parking. Those who attend events have been complimentary about the accessibility of having valuable community resources in this part of Erie.
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Mission Awareness Events FY 2023 For 30 years, the Mercy Center has been recognizing local women whose contributions have positively impacted the local community. Our signature Women Making History event on April 3rd honored 16 women, nominated by the those in the community who know them best. Hundreds gathered at the Mercyhurst Performing Arts Center to hear their remarkable stories of perseverance and dedication, often in service to those who struggled prior to their intervention. These women inspire us all, including the residents of the Mercy Center who were on hand that evening.
1993 - 2023
We thank the 2023 honorees for their compassion and heart in serving others. The Mercy Center is also grateful to the sponsors of this event. Your financial support allows us to give these women their due-women who reflect the mission of the Sisters of Mercy, founders of the Mercy Center, whose lives are committed to spirituality, community, service and justice.
Cheryl Bates
Susan Paradise Baxter
Darlene Bush
Jacqueline Catrabone
Georgia Del Freo
Amy Eisert
Elizabeth Hirz
Sarah Humphrey
Susanne Kuligowski, Ph.D.
Karen Morahan
Marva Keys-Morris
Sister Margaret Pellerite, SSJ
Kelly Stolar
Carla Storrs
Ruth Thompson
Kathy Woodard
Women Making History 2023 Sponsors, Donors Catherine McAuley Level Anonymous Sojourner Truth Level Hallman Chevrolet Hyundai PNC UPMC Health Plan Martha Washington Level Erie Insurance FirstEnergy Frontier General Contracting, Inc. Highmark/AHN Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, Inc.
Alyson Amendola Catherine Anderson Margaret M. Aste Maureen Barber-Carey Kathleen Benson Bettye Walker Chapman Edith M. Coccarelli Christine Colao-Nickson
Clara Barton Level Anonymous AmeriHealth Caritas Services LLC Benedictine Sisters of Erie, Inc. Tom and Kathy Burik Cathedral Prep School GECAC Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. MacDonald Illig Attorneys Mercyhurst Prep School National Fuel Premier Conduit Inc. Printing Concepts Sisters of St. Joseph of NW PA Strategy Solutions, Inc. The Erie Community Foundation
Joyce E. Crishock Mary Ellen Dahlkemper Ellen DiPlacido Nancy Dusckas Jane Earll Mary K Eisert-Wlodarczyk Susannah Weis Frigon Sr. Mary Fromknecht, SSJ
Dorothy Glover Rita A. Goebel Sr. Carolyn Gorny-Kopkowski Joy Greco Elisa Guida Ann Halupczynski Colleen Hammon Melanie Hetzel-Riggin -15-
Rosa Parks Level Lillis, McKibben, Bongiovanni & Co. Erie DAWN Board of Directors Anita Kuchcinski UPMC Hamot Dahlkemper's Jewelry Connection iHeart Radio Lorei Portraits Mercyhurst University
Photo credit: Lorei Portraits
Nancy Marchini Christine McClure Brenda McWilliams Tina Mengine Sr. Rosemary O'Brien Mimi O'Connor Judith Pratt Wilma A.Rahner
Shirley Schell Karen Seggi Dr. Mary Hembrow Synder Mary Ann Tempestini Debra Thompson Mary E. Watson Michele Wheaton Pamela Will
Mercy Center for Women Est. 1994
75%
ABOUT MERCY CENTER GRADUATES, FY 2023
ATTENDED MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM
COMPLETED SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROGRAM
0%
PROGRAM GRADUATES SINCE 2017 READMITTED TO AN EMERGENCY SHELTER
OBTAINED PERMANENT HOUSING
100%
67%
100%
GAINED INCOME
WOMEN WHO GRADUATED FROM MERCY CENTER, 6 OF WHOM MOVED INTO MACC
28
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12 WOMEN AND 16 CHILDREN MOVED INTO PERMANENT AFFORDABLE HOUSING
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What was once a vacant school building has been given new life, invigorating the lives of 13 families who call Mercy Anchor Community Center their home. But MACC is not only home. It’s also a neighborhood anchor complex which offers services and other resources available to the entire Erie community. Homerooms have been transformed into homes with each apartment including two bedrooms, family room, kitchen, bathroom and laundry. Down the hall is the John & Gertrude Petersen Community Room, complete with computer stations, a large screen television and instructors who provide computer literacy training. Students seeking GED certification are also gathered around large tables in the space where Greater Erie Community Action Committee leads small group instruction. While moms are in class, their children are engaged in educational STEAM activities which the ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum’s Mobile Museum provides onsite. The gymnasium is now home to community health and job fairs, basketball practice for local youth teams, and special events that have access to Jennie’s Kitchen, named after Jennie Hagerty who spearheaded the project. The PNC Fitness Room holds regular yoga classes and the reflection room is available for prayer and quiet thought. Art classes from Antonio and Sarah Howard are offered and a healthy choice food pantry, created in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania, is open to local residents. The Mercy Center’s own Dress for Success Erie program, whose mission is to empower women to achieve economic independence and thrive in work and in life, has a new home in the complex. Mercy Center’s Daily Threads thrift clothing store for women is in its new space, too, and is open to the public.
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Mercy Anchor Community Center, Est. 2023 Support groups and classes available to the public include Foster Grandparents Tutoring Program (GECAC), nature classes (Asbury Woods), parenting (Erie Family Center), peer-to-peer support group (National Alliance on Mental Illness), trauma support group and individual counseling (Crime Victim Center). The Mercy Anchor Community Center was renovated and repurposed without any debt.
Community Partners AHN Saint Vincent Alcoholics Anonymous Asbury Woods Crime Victim Center Diaper Depot/Erie Family Center Dress for Success-Erie Erie County Community College ExpERIEnce Children’s Museum Greater Erie Community Action Committee (GECAC) Harvest 912 Narcotics Anonymous National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI Erie County) Sarah Reed Children’s Center Second Harvest Food Bank of Northwest Pennsylvania UPMC Western Behavioral Health at Safe Harbor
Vision 2020 Capital Campaign Donors In 2022, the Mercy Center for Women concluded its Vision 2020 capital campaign which raised nearly $5 million to repurpose the former Holy Rosary School into affordable housing and services for those in the Erie community in need. Support came from individuals, businesses, foundations and government entities who continue to partner with the Mercy Center in its mission.
Vision 2020:
The Touchstone of Today With Foresight for Tomorrow
Partners in Vision Society | $1 mil. - $300,000
Capital Campaign Cabinet
Tomorrow’s Future Society | $299,999 - $100,000
Anonymous Calypso Enterprises John M. and Gertrude E. Petersen Foundation Partners in Vision Society PHFA
Jan Cornwell Diverse Erie The Erie Community Foundation Erie County Gaming & Revenue Authority (ECGRA) Erie Insurance Thomas B. Hagen The Kern Family Foundation M. Janet McIntyre * Dr. and Mrs. Keven C. Schattner UPMC Health Plan
Lou Colaizzo, Co-Chair Jennie Hagerty, Co-Chair Patrick Burns Rob Doyle II Cynde Goldberg Tony Keim Jim Martin Sisters of Mercy Ted Wood & Associates, Consultants
Haven for Hope Society | $99,999 - $50,000 Patrick and Leslee Burns FirstEnergy Foundation Mary Lincoln Northwest Bank The Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, Inc.
*Deceased
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Vision 2020 Capital Campaign Donors Sisters of Mercy Society | $49,999 - $10,000
Heart and Soul Society | $2,499 and under
Accudyn Products, Inc. Pete and Karen Alex Judy Alstadt Anonymous The Aimee Baumann Family Brian W. Bolash Monsignor Robert L. Brugger Denis and Mary Frances Coan Louis F Colaizzo Carolyn and Cody Cook Country Fair Dave Hallman Chevrolet Rob Doyle II Brad Eastwood The Employees of American Tinning and Galvanizing Co. Erie County District Attorney's Office, Drug Forfeiture Account Cynde Goldberg Greg and Liz Gutting Ron Habursky Chris and Jennie Hagerty Highmark Health Martha Wurst Hilbert Thomas and Kimberly Kennedy Marquette Savings Bank David Morphy and Jean McMillin Merwin Foundation Msgr. Jack “Hags” Hagerty from a grateful friend National Fuel Gas Company Foundation Tim and Lisa NeCastro Order of Carmelites The Plastek Group Plyler Entry Systems PNC Roger and Nedra Richards Sheryl A. Rucker David and Doreen Russo Robin Scheppner Ann and Bob Schoeller Sarah Shine Doug and Jennifer Smith Vern Troyer & Kathryn Buesink Troyer
Marjorie A. Alberstadt Melinda Albright Rev. Bruce R. Allison Anonymous The Asente Family Richard Baltes Rev. Christoper M. Barnes Pat and Toni Barry Janet C. Bergkessel Dorothea Blakely Msgr. Casimir A. Bogniak Teresa Borowy Joanne Brooks Debra Caldwell William O. and Judith A. Carr Tami Carrara Gerald R. Grafius Sr. and Leslie A. Clark Susan Clement Sr. JoAnne Courneen James Crain Cynthia Crosby Michael and Barbara Cross Dick Morewood Plumbing and Heating Brad and Shelia Dinger DKG Erie Chapter Merle and Dominic Donatucci Walter and E. Lisa Drissel Laura Eichenlaub Thelma P. Eichenlaub Thomas W. Elward Eriez Magnetics Paula Erisman Frank and Mary Ann Fabin Ruben Fechner Rev. Jason Feigh Kathy Felong Donald Fetzner James and Rebecca Flynn Charles and Susan Foye Kristie Freer Charlotte Fuhrman Esther Gallagher Nancy Genek Christine Gerlock Floretta Gibbs Rev. Raymond Gramata Mary Graziano Rev. James Gutting Shirlee Kirk Haden Ellen Hagerty G. Louise Anderson and Linda L. Hajec Patricia Hardner Edward and Diane Horneman II Kathleen Iarussi #iGiveCatholic Robert Ingram In Memory of Sheila V. Ball In Memory of Katherine Nuber Rev. John Jacquel Amanda Jantzi Casimir and Arlene Jarmolowicz Regina Johnson Chris Jones Christine Kalie
Community of Peace Society | $9,999 - $2,500 Anonymous Jeff and Amy Brinling The Britton Family Foundation Carl and Nicole Brugger Thomas and Kathy Burik Lydia H. Caparosa Dress For Success Philadelphia Inc. ERIEBANK Erie Federal Credit Union Lorianne Feltz Chris and Valerie Greene In honor of the Mercy Center Treatment Court Graduates Joseph McCormick Construction Co., Inc. Tony and Ginny Keim Knox Law - Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. Maureen Geary Krowicki Nancy Marchini Bob and Emily Merski Michael Grab Architect Mike and Amy Nedreski Gerald and Dionne Oakley Plastics Services Network Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie The Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, Inc. St. Jude the Apostle Church
Rev. Charles A. Kaza James and Janice Kehl Anne Marie Keil Mary Ann Kiehlmeier Knights of St. John Joseph and Michele Kownacki Msgr. Henry A. Kriegel Mary E. La Creta The Sharples Family: Carol, Rob, Scott & Katie David and Mary Lee Laird Rev. Jerome Simmons The Lawless Family David Slomski Laura Lewis Lois P. Smith Kenneth and Judith Lohse Corrinne Synder Deacon Francis Lombardo Society of Holy Trinity Michael and Jane London Rev. Marc Solomon Sherry Loringer Kristie Spencer George and Shirley Lucore Mary Spencer James and Christine Luffy Stacey Steen Kathryn Maasz Carla Storrs MacDonald Illig Jones & Britton, LLP St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church Elizabeth MacKrell Brian and Elizabeth Swantek Mr. & Mrs. Michael and Jean Malthaner Carol P. Tabb Rev. Robert A. Manning Techniques Hair Design Wesley and Nancy March Ted Parker Insurance Agency Rev. Dennis Martin Daniel and Mary Ann Tempestini Lisa Masterson David and Jane Thiemann The McClintock Family Mary Tobin Denise McConnell Renee Triana James and Annmarie McLellan Twin Tech Class of 1977 Diane McQuaid Breanna Watts Mercy Terrace Apartments Evelyn Wesman Vicky Merski and Family Jarad and Jennifer Willats Charlene Michael Mitchell and Christel Willis Patricia Miller Thomas & Jean Wincek Rev. William C. Miller Jamie Worth Motivate Studios LLC W PA Chapter NECA, Inc. Francis Mouyard Dave and Kim Wurst Shelby Neal YogaErie Sam and Julie Nicolia Harvey and Mary Olson Rev. Philip M. Oriole Bernard and Dorothy Pamula Parker-Hannifin Foundation Patricia Pfister Megan Phillips Rev. Philip Pinczewski Sam Pirrella Edward and Barbara Pisarchick Rita Platte John Plavcan Rev. James P. Power Quinn, Buseck, Leemhuis, Toohey & Kroto, Inc. Frank and Mary Therese Riley Msgr. Gerald T. Ritchie * Gregory and Erin Ross Anthony Sansone Rev. Bob and Shirley Schell Mayor Joe and Rhonda Schember Kathleen Scheppner Bridget Healy Schoenig Rev. Stephen J. Schreiber Thad and Ann Scott Capital Campaign Co-Chairs Lou Colaizzo Steven and Ann Marie Scutella and Jennie Hagerty reflect on a campaign Stephen Seymour Peter and Terri Sforza Jr. which resulted in more housing opportunities and support services specifically targeted for low-income Erie residents.
*Deceased -19-
Mercy Center graduate Amanda, right, formed a lasting friendship with Emma, left, foster mother to Amanda’s daughter Vayda. Emma cared for Vayda while Amanda completed a drug treatment program. Amanda has since regained custody of her daughter.
Financial Overview FY 2023 July 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023
Where the money came from
Where the money comes from
Investment Return 8.9%
Other Income 0.3%
Client Service Fees 0.9% Donations In-Kind 8.3%
Grants 43.7%
Special Events & Fundraising 5.2% Capital Campaign Contributions Capital Campaign11.6% Contributions
Sources $ 997,466 Grants 444,365 General Contributions 18,000 NAP Contributions 264,961 Capital Campaign Contributions 189.586 Donations In-Kind 20,024 Client Service Fees 118,071 Special Events and Fundraising 7,883 Other Income 202,567 Investment Return $2,262,923 Total Revenues Grants Received PA Workwear Grant PHARE Grant Erie County ARP DEI Grant Erie Women's Fund ECGRA Grant Other Grants Total Grants
11.6% NAP Contributions 0.8% General Contributions 19.5%
Fundraising 2.7% Management and General 24.1%
$ 119,221 200,000 250,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 128,245 $997,466
Where the money went Distribution Program Services Management and General Fundraising Total Expenses
$ 1,176,735 386,856 43,264 $ 1,606,855
Program Services 73.2%
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*Based on audited financial statements
Grace Church Mission Supporter He was surprised to learn the leaders he was meeting with would choose hands and feet over dollars and cents. But that’s just the response Derek Sanford, lead pastor of Grace Church, McKean, Pa., and ServErie founder, heard from nearly every nonprofit leader in the Erie community he visited in 2006.
believes that there are two ways residents can benefit from the Church’s teachings.
Before starting ServErie in 2007, Sanford visited 30 or so nonprofits to assess their needs, and to that end posed this question: How could his church help their organization’s mission? Are people or money more important? It turns out they had enough money but not enough people to do their organization’s work. Therein lies the impetus for ServErie. “Erie has some really great social service organizations,” said Sanford. “And a lots of them. So there was no need to reinvent the wheel.” Sanford knew his church could inspire others, including beyond his congregation, and help connect the dots to the organizations that needed help.
“There are some really wonderful things that happen when people physically gather together for worship,” he said. Having residents hear God’s teachings alongside others is one way to reach those in need but according to Sanford, the bigger more challenging question is how to get the Church to them--how to inspire people to focus on what they do outside the walls of the Church. That, he states, is a motivational question. “I believe we as Christians are all bi-vocational. We have a paid job but we also have another job, a ministry, to serve people who desperately need our help, hope and resources,” said Sanford. According to Mercy Center Executive Director Jennie Hagerty, the messages Pastor Sanford and other spiritual leaders at Grace Church speak from the pulpit are motivating both young and old in our community to do good deeds. “Not only has the Mercy Center been a site for ServErie over the years, but we’ve been the benefactor of Grace’s congregation and numerous members who’ve donated coats and bedding throughout the year,” said Hagerty. “I think I can speak for other nonprofit organizations when I say that ServErie alone has been a godsend to our organizations.”
Connect the dots Grace Church did, and 16 years later ServErie remains a vibrant volunteer mobilization effort, connecting people in church buildings and businesses with nonprofits like the Mercy Center. Since inception, ServErie has involved approximately 50 area churches, 40 organizations and tens of thousands of volunteer hours.
Grace Church has a vibrant, involved congregation including youth groups who’ve helped local migrant children and donated diapers by the truckload to local organizations.
“We want to make an introduction, then step out of the way,” said Sanford. “We want people to volunteer at places like the Mercy Center who help some of the neediest folks in our community and say, ‘I never knew this place existed. I want to help more often than on just this one day.’”
When asked what he considers his most important accomplishments, Sanford says unequivocally it’s his three wonderful children. He shares, “I’m just super proud of them. They’re great people contributing to society and the world in profound ways.”
Although ServErie may be the most visible contribution Grace Church has made in the Erie community, Sanford believes its success is measured by “life changes” happening across the congregation. “We know we’re being successful when more people are following Jesus,” he explained. Although that is a metric that is not always easily seen, it’s his church’s goal.
Professionally, too, he said it’s the people. Sanford’s been with Grace Church since 1995 and has witnessed a lot in those 28 years.
Sanford provides examples. “Are people in your congregation, within your community, becoming more peaceful, kinder, generous? It’s sometimes hard to know, but those are the metrics that are most meaningful.” When asked about how to impart empathy on a “hyper-me focused society,” as he calls it, Sanford explains the most effective way is to model empathy. “Do it publicly, do it on platforms where people can see it,” he said. And by “it,” Sanford means showing empathy by one’s actions. “Grace (Church) tries to model through podcasts and other medium, people discussing issues with others who have opposing points of view, but it’s done with respect. It’s understanding someone else’s perspective and needs,” he said.
“Our staff who were once in my youth groups when I first started here, now they’re running the church,” he said. “To see people who have built ministries and created families that are good for the city and our world. That’s a great reward. The people of our church, the leaders I’ve helped invest in, to watch them make a difference in the world is really a beautiful thing.”
Understanding that Mercy Center residents often bring with them a history of domestic abuse, substance abuse, addiction or mental illness, Sanford
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Sr. Michele Schroeck, RSM Mission Supporter “We are all are called as Christians to serve the needy of our time,” believes Sister Michele Schroeck, RSM. Schroeck has long been committed to the Mercy Center for Women’s mission, most recently serving on its board of trustees. Shroeck’s Catholic education began in elementary school, continuing throughout high school and well into her college years at Mercyhurst University. Inspired by the sisters she had met throughout her schooling, Shroeck felt called to pursue the same path as Catherine McAuley in serving the poor. McAuley was an Irish Catholic religious sister who founded the Sisters of Mercy in 1831. Schroeck began volunteering at the Mercy Center for Women in 1990 while it was still at Hope House. She came in periodically to work as a house manager where she began to help the women while learning their stories. “I have always been impressed by these women and their resilience despite their struggles,” said Schroeck.
Standing in the House of Mercy Crenshaw Community Garden are, left to right, Desh Rai, Sonia Rai and Sister Michele Schroeck. The Rais are immigrants from Nepal and have been planting vegetables there for several years.
Since her time volunteering at the Mercy Center for Women, she has taken on additional community roles. Her work included her position as the director of Service Learning at Mercyhurst University, the director of International Students at Mercyhurst Preparatory School, and in the Mercy Migrant Education Ministry. Presently, she serves on the New Membership Team of the Sisters of Mercy as a vocation minister.
Schroeck believes Catherine McAuley’s mission is carried out today, both at the Mercy Center and at The House of Mercy. "When I think of Mercy Center for Women, I think of how much it fits the mission of Catherine McAuley who started the first House of Mercy in Dublin in 1827,” she said. “She used her inheritance to build a home for servant girls who didn’t have a safe place to go. McAuley provided support and skills for them to have a better life. She also started educating the children. Many volunteers and donors supported the work she did, and some became the first Sisters of Mercy. Mercy Center for Women has its roots in that first house and operates in much the same way all these years later.”
Schroeck elaborates on her role of serving the community through her work with immigrant families. “As a Sister of Mercy, I have had the opportunity to be a bridge builder and connect those who serve with those who need,” she said. “I currently live at the House of Mercy which is a neighborhood outreach of the Sisters of Mercy that provides activities and advocacy to an ethnically and economically diverse neighborhood in East Erie.” According to Schroeck, community outreach to families includes many who are immigrants from Syria, Iraq, Bhutan/Nepal, and various African countries. In addition to offering outreach activities, the House of Mercy also provides home improvement grants and seasonal activities including helping immigrant families grow their own cultural herbs and vegetables in a 28 raised bed community garden.
Schroeck discussed the recent expansion at the Mercy Center with the addition of the Mercy Anchor Community Center which offers permanent housing and supportive services all under one roof to both women and men who experienced homelessness. “I think the expansion at MACC creates another step for those who find it difficult to find long-term housing,” she said. “It really does double the capacity and fill a gap in terms of the need for long-term housing for both women and men who are making that transition from homelessness to economic self-sufficiency.”
The House of Mercy has partnered with Gary Horton, president of the Urban Erie Community Development Corporation, to develop the Buffalo Road corridor as part of the Eastside Grassroots Coalition. The EGC is a collaborative effort between the UECDC and the House of Mercy dedicated to neighborhood revitalization.
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The Mercy Center for Women is a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization that was founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1994 by bringing together the services of Hope House, a transitional housing facility for women and children, and GROW (Grass Roots Opportunities for Women), an advocacy center.
Join us as our story unfolds
MACC
...men, and children
Mercy Center for Women
1039 E. 27th St. | Erie, PA 16504 (814) 455-4577 | MCWerie.org
@MCWerie
In-house design: Teresa Borowy
Mercy Anchor Community Center
1012 E. 28th St. | Erie, PA 16504