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We can’t express enough gratitude to our amazing Catholic Charities’ volunteers who help us live out our mission to Empower Individuals and Strengthen Families.
On Thursday, April 18, we celebrated and honored them at our annual volunteer appreciation dinner. At the dinner, program managers shared how volunteers impact our programs and what their selfless service means to those we serve. We also handed out some special awards and recognitions.
During this special milestone year, we especially value the commitment of our volunteers, in recognition of A Century of Care and Compassion, Fulfilling Christ's Promise of Help and Hope.
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Sexual Assault Awareness Month Survivor Statements | |
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April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), a time to raise public awareness about sexual violence and educate communities on how to end it. Catholic Charities' Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program presents Survivor Statements, an exhibit of black and white photographs with survivors’ statements in their own words. These photos are currently being displayed at Iowa Western Community College and CHI Health Mercy Council Bluffs.
These are the real stories voluntarily submitted by sexual abuse survivors from our nine-county service area. Survivors have expressed that this project has been an empowering experience, and they want other survivors to know that they are not alone.
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It's no secret that Catholic Charities' impact on those who are struggling is profound. This past year has been a busy one. We fed, sheltered and welcomed more people than in past years, serving more than 35,000 individuals across all program areas.
Because of your support, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Des Moines, is able to care for the people of Central and Southwest Iowa during their time of need. Thank you!
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“My case worker, every time I called
him, he immediately responded. The
things he has done for me, I think I will never forget. He’s a member of my family, he is my brother.”
- Kayumba, Catholic Charities’ Refugee Services Client
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“Everyone has touched my heart here. If you are ready for change, this is the place to do it.”
- Amber, Catholic Charities’ Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Client
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“I love my therapist here at Catholic
Charities. She really works with you
specifically, geared toward your unique self.”
- Amy, Catholic Charities’ Counseling Client
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Celebrating 45 Years of Compassionate Service | |
Teresa Hensley
Teresa Hensley is a calming light for the Catholic Charities Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Program in Council Bluffs, Iowa. After 45 years of dedicated service, Teresa is preparing for her retirement next month. Throughout the years, Teresa has “worn many hats.” She has served as an office manager for the counseling program, managed a food pantry that was once located in Council Bluffs and operated a financial assistance program. Currently, Teresa also plays a key role in the operations of our Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault program. She has been vital in securing grant funding sources to support the program. Her contributions have made an immeasurable impact on the survivors Catholic Charities serves.
As Teresa prepares for her well-deserved retirement, we celebrate her and the legacy she is leaving behind. Her compassion and dedication are a reminder of the great impact one person can have in the lives of many.
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Mental Health Ministry Retreat
Sunday, May 5
12 – 4 p.m.
Krause Hall, Catholic Pastoral Center
601 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA
Join us May 5, 12-4 p.m., for a retreat focusing on topics related to mental health from a Catholic perspective. The keynote speaker will be Matt Connolly, Board President of Mindspring Mental Health Alliance. Matt advocates in many ways for defeating stigma on mental illness and raises recovery awareness.
Registration is $10
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Mental Wellness Panel
Thursday, May 9
5:30 p.m. - Dinner
6:00 p.m. - Presentation
Griswold Community Center
601 2nd St., Griswold, IA 51535
(Presentation available via Zoom)
Catholic Charities is pleased to be a part of the Healthy Cass County Coalition’s Mental Wellness Panel. Catholic Charities Therapist, Debrenee Grajeda, LMSW, PLMHP will be speaking in the panel discussion. Members from the Catholic Charities’ Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault program will also attend to provide information and advocacy support for attendees, if needed.
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Your Support Serves Thousands in Central and Southwest Iowa
Catholic Charities' Annual Appeal is the primary funding source for Catholic Charities along with government and private grant funding.
Donors who commit to an annual gift help strengthen and empower individuals and families through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Consider an annual gift that will help all year!
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Keep up with us on Social Media!
Follow Catholic Charities of Des Moines on social media. Be up to date on events, news and our programs!
Like us on Facebook
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Serving those in need within the Diocese of Des Moines
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Des Moines serves those in need within the 23 counties of the Diocese of Des Moines in southwest Iowa. Our mission to empower individuals and strengthen families applies to anyone in need in the area, regardless of demographic. Our mission is rooted in Catholic Social Teaching. Our programs and services include refugee resettlement, professional counseling, food pantry, domestic violence and sexual assault shelter and services, emergency family shelter and more. We impact over 35,000 individuals each year.
Find more information about Catholic Charities here.
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