Program News 2006
St. Helena's Reunion
Amid the greetings and the catching up and the introductions of partners and offspring, one sentiment rang out over and over again at the reunion for St. Helena's Community Group Residence - that it was like coming home.
Since 1969, St. Helena's has provided group residential care for adolescent girls unable to live at home. Recently, approximately thirty alumnae gathered with current and former St. Helena's staff for dinner and reminiscing. St. Helena's full history was represented, with women who had lived in the residence during the 1970s all the way up to women who were just discharged last year. Many alumnae brought their families, as well as photographs from their St. Helena's days. "The energy was just wonderful," says Harriet Mauer, Good Shepherd's Director of Social Services, who has been part of our residential staff for over thirty years, "It was like a family reunion."
"Ms. Mauer was one of the first people who ever made me feel worthwhile," said one alumnae, growing teary-eyed as she recalled being given a jar of hand lotion by Harriet shortly after her arrival at the residence, and how to this day she always buys that same brand, because it reminds her of her first feelings of security and belonging. "Good Shepherd saved my life."
October 30, 2006
