GuadalupeFamilyServices2015ExecutiveSummaryInCamden,ForCamden…Hope,Help,andHealing®

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InCamden,ForCamden…Hope,Help,andHealingMessagefromtheDirectorandFounderDear Friends, In 2015, Pope Francis visited the United States and reminded us all of God’s call to live a life of caring for others. The most memorable moment for me was when Pope Francis came through the doors of Independence Hall to Aaron Copland’s stirring music, Fanfare for the Common Man. Pope Francis is so inspirational. He is a common man, following God’s call to live a life caring for others. What he does, we are all called to do! 2015 is also a special year because we celebrated our 20th year of service to the people of Camden, New Jersey. GFS cares for the lives of others. Our programs create meaningful opportunities and empower families and individuals to make positive change in their lives. Camden has the reputation of being one of the poorest, most violent cities in the United States. We see the potential for a better future for each person we encounter and for Camden. 2015 was a very successful year, allowing us to provide services to more than 1,000 people through counseling, education, skill building, and community outreach. As a non-profit organization, each of our programs require grants, donations, partnerships, and volunteers. Our circle of impact includes those who give their time and support to make our work possible. We are most appreciative of those who have been such strong supporters of our work. This annual report is a reflection of our vision to give hope, help, and healing to families in Camden. This report highlights both the core of our work and our growth over the past 20 years. We see a positive future for Camden as we continue to invest in the youth of this city and the families that are the foundation of our community. We continue to endeavor to achieve our mission …. Sister Helen Cole SSJ, MSW, LCSW

“Our time has a great need for hope! The young can no longer be robbed of hope. … The young need hope.

It is necessary to offer concrete signs of hope to those who experience pain and suffering. Social organizations and associations, as well as individuals who strive towards acceptance and sharing, are generators of hope.” ~Pope Francis (2015)

InCamden,ForCamden…Hope,Help,andHealingMissionStatementGuadalupe Family Services is a professional social service agency committed to maintaining,

strengthening, and reconciling the relationships that form the foundation of our community -- The

Family. Our goal is to enrich and transform our neighborhood by empowering the community,

responding to evolving needs through innovative and collaborative service, and counseling families and

individuals toward positive change.

PurposeGuadalupe Family Services was incorporated in 1995, with the purpose to:

• Counsel and serve families in distress to promote hope, health, and healing

• Educate families on community resources available to improve quality of life

• Advocate on behalf of underserved persons to improve public benefits, housing, health care, and

opportunities for youth

• Prevent violence in the community and in the family

ProgramsSince its incorporation in 1995, Guadalupe Family Services (GFS) has worked to meet the complex needs

of the Camden community in unique and personal ways. GFS is committed to affirming the dignity of each

human person through Christ-like compassion and outreach to the underserved.

Comprehensive Social Services: GFS engages individuals, couples, and families through:

• Family and individual counseling on trauma, grief and loss, behavior, and relationships

• Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter holiday food baskets

• Family Life Program provides clothing, food, diapers, and other essential items

• Charitable assistance to those who have nowhere else to turn for help

• Resume writing and job search assistance

• Advise individuals and families on issues of budgeting and bill payment, employment opportunities,

and accessing basic needs like food and health care

• Translation and notary public services to enable access to government services

• Facilitate services with partnering agencies ensuring comprehensive support for individuals and

families in need

Community Education: GFS empowers our neighbors through its relationship with: • Camden District Council Collaborative Board (DCCB) to improve relationships between the community and

police by fostering dialogue and transparency • Rutgers University, City officials, and area non-profits to collaborate on events for Camden residents • Diocese of Camden Community Relations meetings to gather information on programs like grant writing,

free eye glasses, Discovery House programs, and PSE&G utilities assistance opportunities, all in order to disseminate this information to our community and partner organizations

• Friends of Northgate Park Association holiday parties to build a community support structure by celebrating families and children

• School parent information meetings to promote healthy families through access to our counseling and youth development services

Advocacy: GFS changes and improves the quality of life for Camden residents as a champion for the underserved in North Camden with its partners, through:

• Catholic Charities board membership enables GFS to have a voice for decisions for those in need on a Diocesan level

• Camden County Metro Police Department works with GFS to bridge relationships with the community and to enhance community policing efforts

• Camden County Office of the Prosecutor regularly consults with GFS regarding victims of violent crime • Families of victims of violence are guided and companioned by GFS staff through the criminal justice system • Save Our Waterfront board membership ensures proper redevelopment of the North Camden

neighborhood and advocates for employment opportunities for Camden residents Violence Prevention: GFS reduces violence and heals those affected by it through:

• Individual and family counseling with victims of violence • Camden Adolescents Striving for Achievement (CASA) youth development and empowerment program • Project Guardian, a gang intervention program sponsored by the Camden County Metro Police Department • Life skills education at Holy Name School • Summer Camp for 8-12 year olds • Teen Adventure Week for 14-18 year olds • Annual Vigil for Peace honoring victims of violence and their families to encourage peace in the new year

Since 1995, GFS has companioned families of

murder victims through its Vigil for Peace every December. In 2015, the Vigil lasted 33

hours, an hour of prayer for each of the 33 victims of violence in Camden that year. Hour

after hour, families gathered in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to remember their loved ones, to honor the lives of the

victims of violence, and to pray for peace and justice in their homes, their city, and our

world. GFS comforted more family members than in any previous year. Clergy and

parishioners from all 8 Catholic Churches in Camden united with the victims’ families,

witnessing to the incredible power of prayer and solace that the Church offers to those in

profound grief.

VigilForPeace

In 2012, GFS started a youth

empowerment program called Camden Adolescents Striving for

Achievement (CASA). The group started with only 10 high school

teens that met once a week. Since then CASA membership grew to

100 teens and provides after school programs 5 days a week.

CASA

CASA and Den Sweeney Photography worked together to highlight the

challenges and dreams of Camden youth through photography. Den

Sweeney and 30 CASA teens explored their most meaningful location in

Camden. Mr. Sweeney photographed the teen and their chosen location, and each teen wrote a reflection to

accompany their photo.

This collaboration is a window into Camden through the eyes of young

people who have both struggled with urban poverty and set goals for themselves to improve their lives. This

exhibition was highlighted at the IDEA Theater in Camden, when more than

100 people attended the opening, including Camden County Police

Department Chief Thomson and Deputy Chief Wysocki, community

leaders, teachers, and the teens’ families. The exhibition will be

displayed at the Stedman Gallery at Rutgers University from May 24

through August 12, 2016.

PhotoExhibition

ImageCourtesyofDenSweeneyPhotography

Through a partnership with the Rutgers Center for the Arts and the DCCB, 20 CASA teens analyzed and

prepared a mock trial based on the novel To Kill A Mockingbird. Under the direction of 2 experienced

lawyers and a homicide investigator, the students learned about the criminal justice system and

discussed racial disparities in the US. After 16 weeks of practice and debate, the mock trial took place in

front of Judge Schneider at the Federal Courthouse in Camden. The program’s success and impact was

highlighted in local media including the Philadelphia Inquirer and SJ Magazine.

MockTrialImageCourtesyofDenSweeneyPhotography

In the city of Camden, where only 64% of the

population has a high school diploma, CASA promotes

high school completion and encourages its students to

consider college. The College Access Program works

with each student to examine their best post-secondary

options including college, trade schools, and military

service. The process exposes students to opportunities

through college visits, SAT prep classes, assistance

with applications, essay writing, financial aid, and

assessment of admission offers. In addition, CASA

works to prepare parents for their child’s transition to

college and to celebrate their success. CASA has a

100% high school graduation rate.

CollegeAccessImageCourtesyofDenSweeneyPhotography

NextStepIn response to the need for ongoing support after high school,

GFS developed the Next Step program for college students.

GFS offers support and guidance on job readiness, career

building, and issues young adults experience. Next Step

provides a sense of belonging and offers support for young

people looking to improve their lives. GFS meets quarterly with

25 young adults.

Project Guardian is a gang intervention

program with the Camden County Metro

Police Department and other community

agencies. GFS partnered in 3 interventions

at the Antioch Baptist Church to address

the alarming rates of violent crime

involving children between the ages of 12

and 18.

GFS met with parents and youth to discuss

their needs, create a vision for better

choices in the future, and offer our

services to families in crisis. The

groundbreaking program is intended to

listen to and support families in order to

stop the cycle of violent crime.

The Camden County Metro Police

Department consulted with GFS on the

implementation of this endeavor. With the

success of this program, the US District

Attorney intends to replicate it in similar

communities.

ProjectGuardian

Each Christmas season, GFS gives

Christmas presents to children who

would otherwise not receive gifts. This year, 500 children woke up to a

very special Christmas morning

thanks to the 80 families and 20

organizations that donated gifts. One family wrote, “This year has been very difficult for us. My kids have experienced pain and sadness but thanks to your friends they were able to have a happy Christmas morning. Thank you so much!” Beyond just the presents that fill the

home, the family experiences the

true Christmas spirit of generosity

and gratitude. As one mother said, “I can’t believe they don’t even know me and my kids but would want to help us!”

ChristmasGifts

Every summer, GFS organizes and facilitates a summer camp for youth

to escape the inner city for 5 weeks. This unique partnership with Saint

Joseph’s University (SJU) is in its 21st year for children. This summer

camp expands children’s horizons through educational, recreational,

and social experiences. With this long history, 8 former summer

campers are now successful alumni of SJU. In 2015, 2 GFS employees

and 6 SJU college students supervised 35 children ages 8 through 12.

For 5 weeks, children visited the Franklin Institute, Johnson’s Farm,

Bounce U, Ocean City, Saint Joseph’s University, the Schuylkill Valley

Nature Center, a weekly trip to Mr. Finegan’s pool party, and many

more adventures.

SummerCamp

Every summer, GFS organizes and facilitates a summer camp for youth to escape the inner

city for 5 weeks. This unique partnership with Saint Joseph’s University (SJU) is in its 21st

year for children. This summer camp expands children’s horizons through

educational, recreational, and social experiences. With this long history, 8

former summer campers are now successful alumni of SJU. In 2015, 2 GFS

employees and 6 SJU college students supervised 35 children ages 8 through

12. For 5 weeks, children visited the Franklin Institute, Johnson’s Farm, Bounce

U, Ocean City, Saint Joseph’s University, the Schuylkill Valley Nature Center,

a weekly trip to Mr. Finegan’s pool party, and many more adventures.

In 2011, GFS expanded our summer camp to offer an exciting opportunity for high school

students. This teen-focused week brings Camden youth out of the city and provides life-

changing experiences. This week includes a college tour, a NYC Broadway show, a high

adventure activity like white water rafting, rock climbing or zip lining, a life skills workshop like the art of fine dining,

dating or theater etiquette, a day trip to Sea Isle City, and a pool party. In 2015, 35 teens enjoyed the Broadway Show Kinky

Boots and discussed diversity and acceptance. One teen said, “Life is more fun when you are open minded!” The week also

included a tour of Saint Joseph’s University followed by dinner at Cuba Libre restaurant in Philadelphia.

SummerCamp

TeenAdventureWeek

TeenAdventureWeek

In 2011, GFS expanded our summer camp to offer an exciting opportunity for high school students. This

teen-focused week brings Camden youth out of the city and provides life-changing experiences. This

week includes a college tour, a NYC Broadway show, a high adventure activity like white water rafting,

rock climbing or zip lining, a life skills workshop like the art of fine dining, dating or theater etiquette, a

day trip to Sea Isle City, and a pool party. In 2015, 35 teens enjoyed the Broadway Show Kinky Boots

and discussed diversity and acceptance. One teen said, “Life is more fun when you are open minded!” The week also included a tour of Saint Joseph’s University followed by dinner at Cuba Libre restaurant

in Philadelphia.

ServicesbytheNumbersIn 2015, GFS provided comprehensive, compassionate, and culturally respective services in the following areas:

500 children received Christmas gifts

180 elementary school students at Holy Name School participated in life skills and violence prevention education

75 teens attended CASA programs

50 middle school students at Holy Name School participated in group therapy sessions

45 clients counseled by licensed social workers

35 children attended Summer Camp for 5 weeks

35 teens enjoyed Teen Adventure Week

30 family members traumatized by violent crime were supported through the legal process to bring the accused to

justice

25 students applied to colleges through our College Access Program

25 young adults attended the inaugural Next Step meeting

21 students assisted with high school applications, scholarships, and financial aid

10 college campuses visited

8 service projects completed

7 hours of after school tutoring for high school students offered weekly

6 guest speakers at CASA

6 students graduated from the CASA SAT prep program

2 overnight retreat and service programs for teens

1 Next Step student featured on the front page of the Philadelphia Inquirer for his volunteer work

ImageCourtesyofDenSweeneyPhotography

Volunteers150 individuals attended the Crossing the River for A Cause fundraiser

120 young professionals attended the Take The Tower fundraiser

80 individuals and families provided Christmas gifts to children

25 chaperones volunteered for the Summer Camp’s day at the beach

20 organizations provided Christmas gifts to children

8 SJU students volunteered weekly at CASA

5 peer tutors from Bishop Eustace Preparatory School taught CASA teens

5 adults volunteered full-time at CASA

StaffSister Helen Cole, Sister of Saint Joseph, Master of Social Work, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Director and Founder

Lourdes Gonzalez-Sherby, Master of Social Work, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Bi-Lingual Clinical Social Worker and Assistant Director of CASA

Tim Gallagher, Master of Social Work

Community Outreach Worker and Assistant Director of CASA

Ryan Langton, Bachelors of Arts

Community Outreach Worker

Colleen Alvarado

Administrative Assistant

10%

19%

7%

7%27%

20%

10%

Income

Grants

Fundraiser

DioceseofCamden

ContractandClientFees

PrivateDonors

OrganizationalDonors

HNCM

68%

9%

14%

9%

Expenses

SalariesandBeneYits

OperatingExpenses

ProgramExpenses

WelfareandSocialActivities

2014-2015FinancialSummaryPrivateDonors $81,771OrganizationalDonors $60,000Fundraiser $57,368HolyNameofCamdenMinistries $30,000Grants $29,912ContractandClientFees $21,410DioceseofCamden $20,504

$300,965Income

SalariesandBenefits $203,190.00ProgramExpenses $41,878.00OperatingExpenses $26,850.00WelfareandSocialActivities $25,874.00

$297,792Expenses

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Partners Bishop Eustace Preparatory School

Camden Center for Law Social Justice Camden County Metro Police Department Camden County Office of the Prosecutor Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Charities

Catholic Partnership Schools

Den Sweeney Photography

DeSales Service Works

Diocese of Camden Community Relations Board District Council Collaborative Board (DCCB) Holy Name of Camden

Ministries Holy Name School

Knights of Columbus

Norwood Fontbonne Academy

Rutgers University Office of Civic Engagement

Saint Joseph’s Prep

Saint Joseph’s University

Saint Luke’s Catholic Medical Services Sbars Inc.

Townsend Press

Villanova University

BoardMembers

Kevin Moran, MSW, MPA Chairman of the Board Executive Director, New Visions Homeless Day Shelter Michele Emery, NP, Treasurer Regional Director, Walgreens Wellness Clinic Nancy Jerome, Secretary Volunteer, CASA Co-Founder, Crossing the River For a Cause Event Vincent McDermott, MD Physician, Retired Kevin Hickey, MA Executive Director of Catholic Charities Regina Bartler Director of Marketing, Bartler Wealth Management Co-Founder, Crossing the River For a Cause Event

Marlene Ramos Human Social Specialist, Bi-Lingual II, Camden County Board of Social Services Paul Dannenfelser, MSSW Social Worker Sean McCloskey Co-Founder, Lavahound; Consultant, Transmogrify Jennifer Bonetti Fay, MA, JD Attorney at Law Prince Holloway, JD Attorney at Law, Stampone Law Robert Grady Managing General Partner, EXL, LLC and ASRM, LLC Thomas M. Keeley-Cain, Esq. Attorney at Law

As “broken” as many may assume this city is, it

has so much potential within its avenues,

boulevards, and streets. I am a student-athlete,

scholar, leader, and proud to be from Camden,

NJ. I have much to offer to this world.

I no longer settle for an image of a disgraceful

city. I am an example of those striving in this city,

and I refuse to fall victim to statistics and

stereotypes. ~Stephen, CASA Youth Leader

Donate Now: www.guadalupefamilyservices.org/donate

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“Nodaylighttoseparateus.Onlykinship.InchingourselvesclosertocreatingacommunityofkinshipsuchthatGodmightrecognizeit.Soon we imagine, with God, this circle of compassion. Then weimagine no one standing outside of that circle, moving ourselvesclosertothemarginssothatthemargins themselveswill beerased.Westandtherewith thosewhosedignityhasbeendenied.We locate ourselves with the poor and the powerless and thevoiceless.Attheedges,wejointheeasilydespisedandthereadilyleftout.Westandwiththedemonizedsothatthedemonizingwillstop.We situate ourselves right next to the disposable so that thedaywillcomewhenwestopthrowingpeopleaway.”

-FatherGreggBoyleSJ,TattoosOnTheHeart(2011)

GuadalupeFamilyServices509StateSt.CamdenNJ08102

856-365-8081www.guadalupefamilyservices.org

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InCamden,ForCamden…Hope,Help,andHealing