2011 Annual Report - St Christopher's Inn

CIEmployee of the SeasonMichael BocciaEmployee of the SeasonWinterthroughout the year. Each quarter, the committee meets to review nominations and vote for theEmployee of the Season. The winning employeereceives an award certificate, a 100 VISA GiftCard, a lapel pin, and a certificate for a day off.In addition, every employee who nominates aco-worker as Employee of the Season is enteredinto a drawing to win a week of free lunches atthe Inn. Following are the four Employees ofthe Season for 2011, along with some highlightsfrom the nominations submitted by their peers.This is a wonderful way to reward the SCI staffwho consistently go above and beyond to helpthe men they serve. . , . , , The employees of St. Christopher’s Inn aresecond to none—their commitment and dedication to the residents and the Mission of St.Christopher’s Inn are an inspiration to thosewho see them in action every day. To recognizeand reward their hard work, a committee wasformed at the Inn called the Employee Recognition Committee which enacted a new initiativecalled the Employee of the Season. Four timeseach year, the staff will nominate and selectone of their fellow employees who they thinkdeserves special recognition. The committeedeveloped selection and eligibility criteria, andmake nomination forms available to all staffMichael is truly an example of dedication &inspiration to the men. He returned to workfrom a serious injury and continued on likenothing ever happened. He often works onsnow days when others cannot make it in dueto the weather. He offers to provide coverage ifsomeone is out and is always willing to help inany way he can.In addition to his case management of ProjectRenewal, Michael volunteered to facilitate a special program for the men at Christmas time – “AChristmas Carol”. Michael also was a great helpwith the Men’s Christmas play and directed oneof the acts. Michael has routinely volunteeredto run a special program during the abundanceof snow days this winter season. Michael trulycares for the men and his kindness and compassion shines through in his work. Michael is agenuine power of example.Michael Boccia has always been a wonderfulrole model for me. He is always available to lis-ten, to offer assistance, just to be a mentor. Michael always reaches out to those staff membersnot feeling well by visiting, send around a card,etc. Clients and staff who work with Michaelpraise him for his spirituality and positive attitude. He is an inspiration to me in many ways.Michael embodies our mission through hiscare, compassion, and concern for the men, aswell as for the staff. He continues to do lectures and “fill in” wherever he is needed. He hasdemonstrated his fortitude, determination, andcommitment to the Inn by returning to work –“full stream” following his accident.Michael has a deep love for the men and isalways willing to give the most difficult andresistant client more time and a lot of positivefeedback and love. Michael is a great asset toSCI and deserves this honor.st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909www.stchristophersinn.org - box 150, 21 franciscan way, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027

CITom KingJane MaleEmployee of the SeasonSpringEmployee of the SeasonSummerTom has been at SCI for over 14 years. Dur-Tom is always available for anyone to comeing that time he has volunteered most Saturdaysand seek his advice or to assist them in what-and many holidays to take the men down toever way he is able at the moment. He is tru-play softball. As we all know weekends and hol-ly a team player and is always willing to takeidays are precious to most of us yet Tom giveson more tasks whenever the department is inup this valuable commodity to give the men ana bind. Tom has a great love for his work andopportunity to have some “sober fun”. Tom isthe men that he serves. This love for the men isalso organized and has been very instrumentalseen in the way he donates his time at the ballin the “Annual Alumni Picnic” for many years.field on Saturday afternoons. Tom has a wealthTom volunteers year after year to be a part ofof knowledge about Chemical Dependence andthe Halloween festivities. He also plays a hugehas the personality that makes him well lovedroll in the annual Christmas play. Aside fromboth by the men and the staff. It is about timeall these things, if you know Tom, you knowthat Tom gets the recognition he deserves for thethat no matter what, the mission of SCI is whatwork and dedication he has for the men at SCI.keeps Tom doing all of these things.I am nominating Jane for “Employee of theSeason” for many reasons, but the first one hasto be for her pleasant disposition. Whethershe is speaking with another nurse, or a clienton the med-line, or a counselor on the phone,Jane is always present and courteous and youwould never know how busy she is, based onthe amount of time and attention she gives eachperson. Jane consistently helps her supervisor, co-workers and department by offering towork weekends when no coverage is available.Most recently, when the medical departmentwas short staffed due to a staff member out formedical reasons, Jane offered to cancel her vacation, saying “I don’t have anything all that greatplanned, I can come in.” Jane is someone whoconsistently seeks to help out, and always thinksof others. She is a pleasure to work with.Jane is a relatively new addition to Medicaland works closely with the men as a medicationnurse and filling in at the front desk when needed to help triage, comfort, and assuage assuageable issues. I hear her always requesting whatshe can do to help, working weekends when sheis not “on the road” following her son’s sportsschedule, and adding a unique compassionatestance that benefits not only the men, but thestaff as well. She is quick to interact with thisprovider, staff, and of course her supervisor, andquite open and responsive to information. Sheis both modest and humble, fun and funny. Sheis a team player and raises the spirit of both menand staff. She is very well liked and appreciatedby the men. She is a welcome addition to St.Christopher’s Inn and a wonderful ambassadorof the mission of St. Christopher’s Inn.st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909www.stchristophersinn.org - 21 franciscan way, box 150, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027

CIAnne Marie HeffernanBoard of Directors DinnerEmployee of the SeasonFalltion committee. She also has the longest running part in our Halloween production!From the first day I met Anne Marie I felt likeshe was someone I’ve known all my life, she hasa special energy about her that she readily shareswith not only staff in medical but everyone thatwalks through our doors. Today for example,David came for his appointment in medical after congratulating him on a job well done in lastevenings Christmas play, she asked if playingthe part of the son who had just lost his fatherwas hard for him since David had recently experienced the loss of one of his parents. I couldn’thelp thinking how thoughtful; then, she took itone stop further and asked him to please put anornament on our Christmas tree as I have witnessed her do with several of the other gentlemen that walk through the door of medical thistime of year. Faith holds her head up high!Anne Marie always goes above and beyondher job as medical assistant/biller. Recently shehelped get a dying client into the appropriatesetting to handle his needs. Anne Marie wentto visit the client on several occasions on herown time to bring him comfort and love. Sheeven gave him a Christmas tree for his room andmade him soft food to eat. Anne Marie has abig personality and a huge heart. I’m proud towork with Anne Marie.If one of the men has a medical issue you canbet Anne Marie will not stop until it is resolved.The men always come first in her book. If it takesnumerous phone calls, transportation scheduling, or other special arrangements to meet theclient needs, you can be sure Anne Marie willget it done. She is always willing to help herco-workers in any difficult situation that arises.She has a wonderful work ethic and consistentlyvolunteers to do extra in our employee recogni-On May 26th, we celebrated the serviceand commitment of our honorees, Mr. Peter Pritchard of Pritchard Industries, Inc. andBrother Benedict Teresawa, SA, along with thegood work of the Friars, staff and residents ofSt. Christopher’s Inn at the 7th Annual Board ofDirectors Dinner. While the guests attemptedto out bid each other for the luxury items at theSilent Auction, old friends were reunited andnew acquaintances were introduced--all in thespirit of hope and recovery.Ambassador Shigeki Sumi of the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations,and long-time friend of Br. Benny Teresawa, SA,kicked off the evening with a warm welcome forall guests. The Very Rev. Jude Arogundade waskind enough to give the invocation before themeal, expressing his admiration for the Inn andthe good work that goes on there. Bill Evans,Master of Ceremonies for the evening, spoke ofhis visit to St. Christopher’s Inn and his commitment to helping the Inn and the residentsas they work toward changing their lives. Mr.Pritchard also spoke of his visit to the Inn withhis wife, Zohreh, and the touching performanceby the men’s choir. Br. Benny asked for forgiveness before his speech as his English was “madein Japan.” However, the highlight of the evening came when Atticus L., a St. Christopher’sInn Alumnus, shared his story. After speakingabout his time in and out of rehab programs,and his struggle with addiction that began whenhe was in his teens, Atticus thanked the Friars,Staff and Benefactors of St. Christopher’s Innfor giving his mother the opportunity to hearhim stand up and tell his story of RECOVERY!st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909www.stchristophersinn.org - 21 franciscan way, box 150, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027

CISCI’s 2011 Golf Tournamentright way but alas, was short of the hole. Afterwards, our guests enjoyed a delicious buffet andcelebrated the good work of St. Christopher’sInn. Door prizes, golf prizes and raffles were announced, and the crowd left feeling content andproud to be a part of great day and a great cause!Thanks to everyone who participated, donatedand supported the 2011 St. Christopher’s InnGolf Classic. We look forward to seeing everyone next year!Once again, the annual St. Christopher’s InnGolf Classic was a wonderful and successfulevent! Although the course was still wet fromHurricane Irene, the weather for the day couldn’thave been better. With a sunny day and goodspirits the golfers headed off for a slightly delayed 10:20 AM shotgun start, and made theirway around the 18 hole, par 72, championship course. Our Million Dollar qualifier hit abeautiful shot that was pin high and hooked theRenewal Farm Moves to Graymoortheir Program Director noted they could onlyhope to find a new location close to Graymoorand St. Christopher’s Inn where they operate.“Our hopes could not have come to a betterend as The Friars of the Atonement graciouslymade a location available to us at Graymoor. Itis a wonderful new relationship that will furtherenhance the possibility of success for our men.”The results of their efforts can be seen thisspring. A greenhouse and raised beds filled withgreens, flowers and herbs will blossom on theold tennis and handball ball court here at Graymoor, and the plants will be sold at the RenewalFarm Stand in front of the St. Christopher’s Inn“That Nothing Be Lost” Thrift and AntiqueShop.Renewal Farm is a small organic farm operated by Project Renewal and is a unique partof their transitional housing and vocational program for homeless men. The men who participate in the program live and receive substanceabuse treatment at St. Christopher’s Inn and areafforded the opportunity to gain sobriety, develop employable skills, good work habits and obtain jobs and housing by helping to operate thefarm. By doing so, they learn to nurture theirown lives while cultivating healthy, wholesomeorganic greens, vegetables, herbs and flowers.Late in 2010, they were faced with the dauntingchallenge to find a new location after their hostin Garrison informed them they required use ofthe site for their own expanding needs.The program’s motto being “We Grow Hope,”st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909www.stchristophersinn.org - 21 franciscan way, box 150, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027

CIHalloween Staff ShowVisit from a JudgeThe Honorable Marcia P. Hirsch brought alonga team of people from the five courts over whichshe presides in Queens County, New York whenshe toured the Inn, met with the SCI Management Team, participated in a focus group withseveral residents, and was serenaded by the SCIMens Choir on Wednesday, October 12, 2011.Judge Hirsch and her team said the transformation of the men she sends to St. Christopher’sInn is so impressive that she wanted to comeand see for herself the secret to the overwhelming success. After spending the day at the Inn,she and her staff believe there are several reasons why St. Christopher’s Inn residents comeback to her “different people.” Some think it isthe length of stay for the residents; some thinkit is the presence of spirituality on the mountain, while others believe the enthusiasm of theSCI staff helps provide the results. It is likelya combination of all of the above lead most St.Christopher’s Inn residents to believe that theyare good people, worthy of love and respect, andto find their way back to hope and recovery.The Judge’s day included viewing the St.Christopher’s Inn Testimonial video, availableon the St. Christopher’s Inn website,www.stchristophersinn.org.ally cares about their success. Why else wouldEach year, the staff at St. Christopher’s Innproduce a Halloween Show for the residents.This show is a major production, complete withcostume and set changes by the staff, and alwaysconcludes with the much requested “Thriller”video and dance number by several members ofthe staff. Not only is this a way for the staff toshow the men how to have fun without drugs oralcohol, but it is also a way to show them thatthey are blessed to be a part of a family that re-the staff dress up and make fools of themselves,just for their entertainment? Many photos ofthe staff were shared on the SCI website, andvideos of several of the skits were uploaded tothe SCI Youtube Channel. You can find themthrough the St. Christopher’s Inn website atwww.stchristophersinn.org. I promise, you willbe entertained!st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909www.stchristophersinn.org - 21 franciscan way, box 150, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027

CIOn Viewpoint with Ken RosatoRide to RememberOn September 4, 2009 while en route to hisjoy an 80 mile course, followed by a barbeque atOn Sunday, November 6, 2011, Fr. Billon Sunday mornings at 5:30am on WABC TV,daily AA meeting Jeff Coursen died tragicallythe Pawling Firehouse. The purpose of the rideDrobach, SA, President and CEO of St. Chris-Channel 7. The program features discussions inwhen a deer collided with his motorcycle. Jeff, ais twofold--to celebrate Jeff ’s life and his commit-recovering alcoholic served as an AA sponsor toment to helping others find recovery, and to raisetopher’s Inn, along with two current residentsthe studio with Ken Rosato, the morning andmany young people, and was on his way to spon-awareness and funds to help those struggling withof St. Christopher’s Inn, appeared on New Yorknoon Anchor of Eyewitness News. The residentssor addicts in recovery from alcohol and heroinaddiction. All funds raised through the Ride wereViewpoint--a program produced by WABC TV,of St. Christopher’s Inn answered Ken Rosato’son the night he died. In September of 2011, fordonated to St. Christopher’s Inn. According towhich focuses on cultural events and positivequestions about their addictions and spoke can-the second year, motorcycle enthusiasts gatheredJeff ’s widow, Beth, “We want to raise awarenesscommunity efforts in NY, NJ and Long Island.didly about their lives both before and duringto remember and celebrate the life of a friendabout effective treatment programs for alcoholicsViewpoint is a half hour program, which airstreatment and recovery at St. Christopher’s Inn.who dedicated himself to his recovery, and theand addicts.” Jeff was only 53 years old when herecovery of others. The “Ride to Remember Jeffdied. However, the Ride to Remember is not forCoursen,” organized by his family and friends inmourning, but rather a legacy of moving forward.Pawling, New York, brought over 60 riders to en-st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909www.stchristophersinn.org - 21 franciscan way, box 150, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027

CISCI’s New Web PresenceTestimonials on the WebOn Our Website:On February 7, 2011, the new St. Christopher’s Inn website went live! After the Inn’s Centennial celebration in 2009, when the focus wason the rich history of helping men in crisis forthe last 100 years, the Board of Directors, Friars,and Staff decided it was time to modernize thepresentation of St. Christopher’s Inn. With thisin mind, much time and effort went towardscreating and launching a new presence on theWeb. The new website is modern, attractive,informational, and easy to navigate. Visitorscan easily access information about the shelter,treatment programs, upcoming events, alumniinformation, and make donations through oursecure server. In addition to a new website, St.Christopher’s Inn is on Facebook and Twitter.Over 350 Facebook users “Like” the Inn, andmany alumni and family members have sharedheartfelt and moving posts on the page. WhileFacebook and Twitter have given the Inn anoutlet for sharing quick tidbits of information,the new, monthly ENewsletter allows for moreinformation and efficient communications withfriends, benefactors and alumni. To make sureyou stay up to date on the latest news, visit thenew website at www.stchristophersinn.org, signup for our monthly e-newsletter, and find St.Christopher’s Inn on Facebook and Twitter.Hello. I don’t have a general question but I wasn’tentirely sure who to contact. I just felt the need tocommend you on all of the outstanding work St.Christopher does. I’ve had dealing with some miserable rehabs in the past and St. Christopher’s is abreath of fresh air. My fiancé is there now and he isa completely different person than he was the day Idropped him off there. He has a completely different outlook on life and I’m so excited to see whatthe future holds for him and for us. Because of St.Christopher’s I have my life back, I can’t thank youall enough. God Bless every single one of you foreverything you do.Sincerely,ChristineVia Email:It looks i’ll be having a sober Holiday this yearthanks to all of you. I’ll never forget all the help youall gave me & i’ll always be thankful. I was hopingto make it down to see everyone before Christmas.With work & College.It doesn’t look like that isgoing to happen. Early next year for sure!! Pleaseforward this email to all departments as i don’t haveeveryone’s email address there. Bless you all.P.S. - I hope you like this photo better than the lastone i sent. lolDear staff,I was there recently for a family meeting i am forever grateful to have my uncle back with a smile on hisst. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909 face a healthy happy thriving man as for everyoneelse there is so much love and smiles it’s hard not tofeel it yourself I could not help but cry tears of happiness in mass to see him singing in the choir whenthe man next to me said “ don’t worry honey withprayer everything will be okay” I left the church andhad people I have never met want to hug me howcould you ever say no to that ! With you’re help youhave brought joy to my family and I to have a family member back in our lives. I can not thank youenough God bless.R.D.Thank you, thank you, thank you! May God bless allof you and your works!Merry Christmas!On Facebook:Anthony wrote:“saved my life. i’ll never forget this place”John wrote:“I was at SCI with Anthony and it definitly savedmy life and has set me and my family on a path toward healing and closeness we have never had ! GodBless the Friars,Sisters and Staff ”Joseph wrote:“three years ago I was a residen

I www.stchristophersinn.org - box 150, 21 franciscan way, garrison, ny 10524 - 1-800-424-0027 15 st. christopher's inn - residential shelter & substance abuse treatment center - since 1909 14 Employee of the Season The employees of St. Christopher’s Inn are second to none—their commitment and dedi-cation to the residents and the Mission of St.