25 Years at Saint Martha’s: A Journey of Love and Resilience
Twenty-five years ago this month, I walked through the doors of Saint Martha’s. I was in graduate school and needed a part-time job. I never left.
For 20 years, I worked in the Children’s Program, and a piece of my heart will always remain with the thousands of children I had the privilege to serve. I remember the first time I stood beside a woman as she gave birth. I also remember the first time a baby I had held and loved died because of violence.
However, the most powerful memories are the simple, everyday ones:
A 7-year-old boy whose mom told him to stop interrupting me because I had other appointments…so he came every morning and asked for an appointment.
A sassy 3-year-old girl who was so proud of her pink high-tops that I started wearing mine on the days I knew I would see her.
A 10-year-old boy who had received every diagnosis imaginable, who told me, “I never color inside the lines because then it looks like everyone else’s.”
A 15-year-old boy, an immigrant, who staff had to beg to leave the shelter during a fire because he wanted to make sure staff was okay, he even came running with a fire extinguisher. Today, he practices international law.
The magic is in those everyday moments we get to experience because we work in their home. Those moments stay with you forever.
I remember the countless women we’ve served…their strength and their pain, their resilience and their trauma, their fear and their courage. I know without a doubt that I would not be here today without the women who have been my coworkers, my family, my friends, my sisters. Do we always agree? Not a chance. There are far too many passionate, strong women for that. Do we do everything from a place of love? Absolutely, every minute of every day. Through bedbugs, COVID, personal illnesses, devastating losses, new babies, marriages, degrees, and all that life brings, love has been our foundation.
When my daughter was 17 months old, she broke her leg. As a new mom, I had no idea what that meant, but the surgeon assured me that the broken part would heal stronger than before. Immediately, I thought of our work here. My heart has broken dozens of times, but each time it grows back a little stronger.
Working at Saint Martha’s is a privilege, a burden, and always an honor. Thank you for the years, the memories, and the love.
A lot has changed in my 25 years, but our purpose has remained steadfast: to support those impacted by domestic violence.
We’re excited to share that Saint Martha’s is embracing an updated look to better reflect who we are as part of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. This refresh highlights our shared mission and strengthens our identity as the Domestic Violence Ministry within Catholic Charities, while continuing to focus on what we do best – supporting women and children impacted by domestic violence.
For more than 40 years, our reputation for excellence has spoken for itself. In a world of competing voices, this new look will help amplify our message and connect with more people who need our help. Together, we’re building a stronger presence to fulfill our mission and make a greater impact.
