What is your position at CCWM and what do you specifically do/clients do you serve?
My position is Associate Director of Mission Advancement, Social Justice and Project Rachel. I started with Project Rachel over 12 years ago serving women and men who struggle emotionally, spiritually, and/or psychologically because of a history with abortion. In 2012, I was asked to serve as the Social Justice Coordinator and in this role I serve as the diocesan director of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development and Catholic Relief Services. I promote these two amazing programs of the U.S. Bishops and oversee the grant process for both. I also serve as a resource to parishes as they do a variety of work related to social justice.  In addition, we host Social Justice Gatherings on various topics and earlier this year, I began serving on our CCWM leadership team in the capacity of Mission Advancement for our agency. For staff, I’m here as a resource person for questions related to Catholic Social Teaching or questions on any area of my work. I’m also here as a resource person for spiritual enrichment or pastoral care of our employees.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 
It’s difficult to choose the single most rewarding part of my job! I am privileged to journey with the clients who come through Project Rachel, as each works through their pain and are able to grieve, forgive and have their hope restored. The work of Social Justice has always been a passion of mine and the work of Mission Advancement allows me to share with our agency, parishes and community the richness of Catholic Social Teachings which drives Catholic Charities West Michigan. It’s all very rewarding work.

Can you talk a little bit about the Mission Advancement Committee and your plans/what you are working on? 
Our committee includes someone from each of CCWM’s towers of service. We are working on a variety of ways to enhance a deeper understanding of our agency mission, vision, values and Catholic identity. Some ideas we are exploring include agency-wide book reads, engaging parishes more closely with our work, and a number of other possibilities that we will be sharing in the weeks and months to come. Stay tuned!

Is there anything else you want to say/talk about?
Working for CCWM has allowed me to grow and has challenged me to move beyond my comfort zone. In addition, I’m particularly grateful to be part of a faith and mission-driven agency that passionately serves the most vulnerable people in our communities.