Latest Blog Posts

School Supply Event a Great Success

Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of many people, churches, Dominican Sisters, staff and various organizations, a monumental amount of school supplies were donated to the Rosa Parks Program during August 2017

All together we were able to distribute 339 backpacks filled with school supplies. Finally, Friday afternoon, Sept. 1, we had to start packing supplies in plastic bags as we ran out of backpacks.

One of the best components of the school supply distribution was that before any supplies were given, a conversation was held with each child and their parent regarding how they were going to make education a priority this coming year. The discussions ensued with honest and worthwhile thoughts about more time on homework and reading—and less time on TV and social media.

We Want Peace, We Want Peace

Rosa Parks Youth program recently just ended its Summer Peace Camp with an amazing graduation celebration. At the graduation, we premiered a film entitled “We Matter,” which was created by the Rosa Parks Youth program teens and the Get Ahead Stay Ahead Project.

Solanus, We Are Still Here!

I was at the announcement when it as declared that Solanus Casey would officially be a blessed soon. I kept smiling as I thought of how proud and happy Br. Solanus would be that his original ministry of welcoming people has grown and grown. His spirit of hospitality has continued and extends to 6 different sites and to well over 1,500 people a day. I know he would love to visit our beautiful children and urge them to love and be kind to each other.

A Ministry of Consoling

The Mission of our Rosa Parks Youth Program has always included to “Provide a safe place for children to express their feelings and discuss their Issues.” Lately we have been doing that so often—and at such a deep poignant level—that our place almost feels like a sacred chapel.

On Tuesday, one of our creative 9 year old girls came to the art table with tears flowing. After a long hesitant conversation and lots of Kleenex she talked about her Godmother who had died the day before. The really hard thing was that she and her Mother were already at the hospital eager for a visit. As they reached the door, they were informed that she had just died. Eventually, a beautiful picture was created in honor of her Godmother and taken home to display.