May 2012

It’s always a whirlwind of activity at Our Lady’s Inn! Expectant moms moving in, newborns coming home from the hospital, big brothers and big sisters showing off their precious siblings, faithful volunteers showing up week after week, goods being dropped off by kind hearted souls, gardens being planted, events being planned, holidays celebrated, Happy Birthdays being sung, teaching, learning, playing, praying, dishes washed, meals prepared, spring cleaning, laundry, ...it’s all the busyness of family life! We are family and as such share in the lives of one another. We have good days, we have challenging days; we laugh and we cry. We celebrate achievements and encourage second chances. We

keep our doors (and hearts) open to serve expectant women in crisis; we offer each an opportunity to build a stable life for herself and her children. It’s an uphill battle for many of these women; a lack of family support, a history of abuse, mental health or substance abuse issues, lack of adequate schooling, and with limited access to resources so much seems to be stacked against them. But they are determined and resilient, and soon come to learn how many people are actually in their corner-OLI staff, volunteers, donors and community supporters who partner with us to keep the doors of Our Lady’s Inn open. Together, we are the family support each expectant mom is lacking. Together, we make it possible for an expectant mom to give life to her child in a respectful and loving home. Together, we work to help our moms overcome life’s obstacles and achieve stable housing for her family. Together, we are making a difference in our communities.

In February, following a year of preparation, Our Lady’s Inn received notification that it had earned a three-year accreditation from CARF International, a nonprofit accreditor of health and human service organizations! Accreditation is official recognition that Our Lady’s Inn is guided by internationally recognized service standards and best practices. Accreditation demonstrates that OLI respects the rights and individuality of our residents and has made a commitment to place the needs of our residents at the center of everything we do. It serves as a public statement that our Agency strives to ensure that our services are of the highest possible quality.

A report accompanying the notification, included commentary such as: “The simplicity and sincerity of the organization’s mission statement are indicative of the organization’s commitment and dedication." “The organization is respected in the community for the valuable service provided to individuals in great need at critical periods in their lives.” “Representatives from funding and referral sources speak highly of the responsiveness, dedication, and stewardship of the leadership and staff.” and “The strong, palpable commitment of the leadership and staff members of the organization to the mission of Our Lady’s Inn is admirable.”.

It is wonderful to have an internationally recognized agency such as CARF International recognize what we have known for many years: that OLI is making a difference as we offer life affirming hope and assistance to pregnant women facing homelessness and lack of support for their decision to respect life. We proudly display our accreditation certificate as a testament of our thirty year commitment to person-centered, quality services to women in crisis.

Accreditation Achievement

A Message From the Executive Director, Peggy Forrest

Garden of Life Luncheon

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Calendar of Events"Tee off to Life" Golf TournamentNorman K. Probstein Golf Course in Forest Park Wednesday, June 20th

Luncheon for LifeWine Country Gardens Thursday, September 27th

On Thursday, April 19th, our Garden of Life Luncheon was held at Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Church. The beautiful morning began with Mass celebrated by Bishop Emeritus, Robert Hermann followed by a delicious lunch provided by Tom Jon’s Ltd. Catering. The nearly 200 ladies in attendance had the opportunity to bid on great auction items like a $1,200 collection of Guerlain facial products from Nieman Marcus, a gorgeous necklace from Ylang Ylang, and a Happy Hour Jewelry Party for 15 people at CODI the boutique along with 90 other fun auction items and baskets! Guests also had the chance to purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win

a beautiful handmade quilt, Apple iPod Touch, and an In-home wine tasting for 12 people! Finally, the guests were treated to a fabulous fashion show showcasing the fashions of our Twice Blessed Resale Shop. Jill Farmer, life coach and speaker, did a fantastic job as our gorgeous models strutted their stuff for all to enjoy! Thank you to all who attended, volunteered, and worked so hard to make this day the wonderful event that it was!

Twice Blessed Volunteer

March marked the completion of the first year of this three-year capital campaign; and we are excited to share with you that we have raised over one-third of the $1.5 million dollar goal! The campaign was initiated for three specific purposes: 1.) to pay off the mortgage of our St. Charles location, 2.) capital improvements to all of our facilities and 3.) endowment to ensure the future viability of Our Lady's Inn. We are happy to tell you that after this first year in the campaign, we have reduced the St. Charles location's mortgage debt from $800,000 to $525,000. It is so important that we continue to reduce this debt to allow more operating capital to go to funding programs and services for the women we serve. If you have not yet made your donation or pledge, please contact Jessica at 314-351-4590 or visit www.ourladysinn.org.

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Marian Martin is one of the longest serving volunteers to help at the Twice Blessed Resale Shop. She began working there seven months after it opened and logged an amazing 531 hours in 2011 alone! Marian has lived in the Dutchtown neighborhood most of her life, attending Meramec Grade School and Cleveland High School. She likes the way the store helps to bring up the neighborhood. Marian started out as a customer, then volunteered because as she says, "It was for a good cause and I liked the prices on the clothes." Marian volunteers rain or shine two full days a week as well as working at a paid job the other four days. She jokingly says she volunteers so much to keep her out of trouble! She's seventy-one! "It is a pleasant place to work because everyone is friendly and helpful. I like being able to help the customers with any of their problems they may have." Marian has four children, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She is very active, takes the bus everywhere, likes to paint, fish and work on jewelry. She repairs much of the broken jewelry that is donated, making it saleable. We are very grateful to Marian who helps make Twice Blessed the success that it is!

Capital Campaign Update

An Evening with the Angels On Sunday, March 18th, Our Lady's Inn held its Angel Gala at Kemoll's, Top of the Met. This year, at this wonderful event, we were honored to present Dr. Michael B. Dixon the 2012 Guardian Angel Award for his advocating for life, serving the community as a good and holy physician, and a partner in our work at the Inn. Dr. Dixon's medical practice, St. Gerard Obstetrics and Gynecology is located at St. Anthony's Medical Center.

The evening began with a cocktail reception in Kemoll's Restaurant with guests then moving upstairs for the main event. A delicious dinner was served at the Top of the Met with a wonderful view of the city, all while guests enjoyed a performance by Broadway for Life. The musical group, children and adults, gave us a beautiful performance. After dinner, guests participated in live and silent auctions and had the opportunity to bid on exciting packages including a 4-day trip for two to NASA to have an Astronaut Experience with an actual NASA Astronaut! Thank you so much to this year's sponsors: Gold Sponsors - St. Anthony's Medical Center, The Quigley Family and Wedgewood Partners/Tony Guerrerio and our Bronze Sponsor - Winkelmann Sons Drug. We appreciate your continued support of Our Lady's Inn!

Gifts Given in Memory of...January 1 - April 30, 2012

Mark Anderson From: Darlene Fuchs

Mary Jeanne Bauer From: Bridget Brennan

Leland Bontz From: Shawn Lawder

Barbara Bujnak From: Rick and Kris Standish

Elenore Busche From: Mary Thuet Jack Doyle From: Robert and Jeannine Sinak

John B. Doyle, Jr. From: David and Janice Morlock

Marcella Eisenbath From: Donald and Gretchen Hermann

Edward Falk From: Anthony and Dianne Lordi

Elizabeth "Betsy" Meyer Faria From: Bud and Nancy Paige

Ben H. Fite From: Maudelle Fite

Gladys Funkhouser From: Jerome Shen and Bridget Brennan

Jennifer Garrett From: Arliss and Marianna Garrett

Humbert and Mary Ghio From: Rev. John J. Ghio

Fred Glarner From: William and Rita Bernard

Dorothy Hubler From: Donald and Gretchen Hermann

David Johnston My Father From: Stephanie Re

Veronica Joye From: Margaret Mantia Cathy Ney Jerome Shen and Bridget Brennan

Mayme Kennedy From: Joyce Moyer

La Verne and Jean Mary Klocker From: Ralph G. Klocker

Gene Kniesche From: Maryilyn Abkemeier

Marie Koch From: Carmelina Castiglione

John and Laura Lauer From: Sandi Lauer

Madelyn Lo Piccolo From: Maria Wilmas

Charles R. Lucas From: Faith Lucas

Alice Luedde From: Jerome Shen and Bridget Brennan

Our Condolencesto the families of...

Harry Backer Father of OLI Staff Member,

Julie Peetz

Mary Lou Franz Grandma of OLI Staff Member,

Jessica Faltus

Frank Martinez Faithful Supporter

Ed Michel, Sr. Father of OLI Volunteer,

Jeannette Michel

Thomas P. O'Driscoll Cousin of OLI Staff Member,

Tammy Duncan

Jeanne Scherer Faithful Volunteer

From: the Board, Staff, Volunteers and Families of Our Lady's Inn

Evelyn McCann From: Robert and Monica Roelke John and Carol Surgant

Dorothy Meehan From: Noreen Dempsey

George V. Meisel From: Joy Meisel

Verna Murphy From: Carmelina Castligione Donald and Florence Griese

Mike Naes From: Jude and Dolly Naes

Janet Niewoehner From: Margaret Mantia

Julianne Pieknik From: Christopher and Olivia Pieknik

Rev. Reuben Pitts From: Mary Pitts Mary Ann Raic From: Stephen and Helene LaBerta

Jeanne Scherer From: Mary Thuet

Dr. Dermott Smith From: Patricia Gallagher

Jane Tiemann From: Joseph and Joan Lipic

Lily Rose Todaro From: Donella Barker

Carol Weis From: St. Louis Circle of Friends

Joseph Cyril Witte From: David and Karen Duros Buron and Janice Farrell James and Julie Koller Louise Kopsky The Thomas M. Tierney Family Robert Wacker Kathleen Williams Merle Wilson Theresa Witte

Jean Flanagan presenting Dr. Dixon with the 2012 Guradian Angel Award.

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Board of Directors

Officers

President

Jean Flanagan

Vice President Madolena Key

Treasurer Howard Schulze

Secretary Patricia Doyle

Development Chairman Anthony L. Guerrerio

Board of Directors Marisue Balek

Mary Ann Capellupo Karin Dengler

Queen Esther Frazier Patricia Hanley

Dee Hinkle Peg Lee

Mimi Murphy, Esq. Denise O’Rourke

Joan Pisoni Susan Schulte

Walter Schuster Thomas Veltz, Esq. Dan Winkelmann, III

Advisory Board Ellen Carter

Charles L. Drury Shirley Drury Patricia Drury

Ewa Dyk Lee Hanley

Suzanne Harvath, Ph.D. George Hinkle

BeBe Conrad Kennedy, Ph.D. James F. Nangle, Jr.

Dr. Akihiko Noguchi, M.D., M.P.H. Rev. David Polek, C.Ss.R.

Evelyn Puleo Sr. Mary Roch Rocklage, R.S.M.

Fred Sauer Don Schreiber

Robert W. Stewart, Esq. Stephenie Surgeon Frank Vatterott, Esq.

Loretto Wagner, President Emeritus

Executive Director Peggy Forrest

The following letter was written by a former client of Our Lady's Inn who was brave enough to attend our 2012 Angel Gala and share her message with all of our guests.

When I found out I was pregnant I was alone and scared. I didn’t know what I was going to do. I knew I had a responsibility to this unborn child to give it the best life I could. If you were to ask me, “Where do you see yourself in the future,” I would have answered, “I don’t know.”

I’m here today to give my love, gratitude and support to the staff of Our Lady’s Inn.

When I first came to Our Lady’s Inn, I was scared, ashamed, alone and felt broken because I still didn’t know how I was going to raise my child on my own.

It was very hard for me to adjust in the beginning, but with the warm hearts and guidance of the staff, I soon adjusted very well. I remember the first few days I was there, Mary [Program Director at OLI South] was always there with a tissue to dry my tears while telling me, “It will be ok.” Thanks again Mary, for being there, guiding me and giving me a second chance.

Helen and Kathy [OLI staff nurses] were there to help me prepare for [my new baby] and guide me through each step of motherhood and to prepare me for the days to come. I had a special bond and relationship with both Kathy and Helen along with many other mothers. They were always there if you needed them. They truly do love what they do. Thank you both for giving me the extra confidence I needed to become a good mom for [my baby].

My journey at Our Lady’s Inn was hard at times, but life changing. They guided me through many of life’s obstacles. Many of the staff had faith in me when I didn’t and helped me realize I am a strong woman and I could do things on my own.

After I left Our Lady’s Inn, the love and support continued with the Aftercare Program. Words can’t express how thankful I am still to this day for Jennifer [OLI South – Aftercare Coordinator] and Our Lady’s Inn and for what they offered me through the Aftercare Program. Because of the Aftercare Program I was able to have my own apartment provided by Our Lady’s Inn.

Having my own apartment gave me a sense of accomplishment that I thought I would never have. Throughout the year Our Lady’s Inn helped me get a job, gain responsibility by putting me on a budget to pay my own bills, buy a car and save enough money to open the next chapter in my life.

I want to end my story with all the thanks I can give to everyone at Our Lady’s Inn. You are truly a blessing to [my son] and me. I am so grateful that you all believed in me when I couldn’t. Because of you and your kind hearts, and many years of support, I am a proud mother of a healthy, very energetic 6 year old boy and a wonderful wife to my husband who is my best friend.

Thank you all so much!

The Our Lady’s Inn "Pay It Forward Project" is partnering with Rosemary Grove, a fair trade gift shop in Kirkwood that sells hand-made items from around the world. The "Pay It Forward Project" gives moms living at Our Lady’s Inn an opportunity to “give back “ by creating hand-made jewelry and cards that are sold at fundraisers and gift shops. The moms benefit from this program by learning a new, creative skill set and basic

entrepreneurial skills. They also experience healthy socialization while encouraging confidence. The "Pay It Forward Project" is always in need of new beads and old jewelry that can be taken apart and designed in our “Repurposed Line of Jewelry." For more information or if you would like to feature the "Pay It Forward" jewelry at your church, school or event, visit www.ourladysinn.org or www.rosemarygrove-online.com or call Betsy at 636-398-5375.

Paying-it Forward

A Gift from the HeartLocal, recognized artist, Lamar Egart, created this beautiful work of art, Madonna and Child, which he then generously gifted to Our Lady’s Inn. This gorgeous oil painting will be on display at our St. Louis location before moving to its permanent home in our St. Charles facility. We are so grateful for Mr. Egart’s kindness and are excited to share this beautiful painting with our moms and children for years to come!

"A Night at the Oscars for Life" Trivia NightA fun time was had by all at our Oscar themed Trivia Night that was held this past January! Over 300 guests came together to support three wonderful organizations:

Our Lady's Inn, Family Shield Ministries and St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish's Pro-Life and over $5,500 was raise! The event was held at St. Elizabeth's and the "Blues Brothers" once again emceed this fun fundraiser! Guests had the chance to bid on over 50 silent auction items and six wonderful live auction items that included a week long stay at a cabin in Arkansas, a family trip to Trout Lodge, and Cardinal Field Box tickets! Thank you so very much to all those who attended and all of the volunteers who helped plan and run this exciting event. We are grateful for your continued support!

Guests dressed as their favorite Oscar winners for a chance to win a prize in

the costume contest!

Guests enjoying their evening of trivia!

Fun silent auction items!

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Gifts Given in Honor of...January 1 - April 30, 2012

Mr. and Mrs. Bernard J. Backer and Family From: Clary and Susie Redd

Charles and Paula Backer From: Clary and Susie Redd

Dr. and Mrs. Thomas S. Backer and Family From: Clary and Susie Redd

William F. Backer and Jamie Davis From: Clary and Susie Redd

Mr. and Mrs. Louis M. Bell From: Clary and Susie Redd

Bridget Brennan Happy Birthday! From: Elizabeth Jurgensen

Ashley Bryant From: Edward and Regina Goff

Orville Burkemper Happy 80th Birthday! From: David and Barbara Hackett Dr. Michael Dixon From: John and Claire Shields

Samuel Duggan Happy 80th Birthday! From: Katheleen Higgins

Theresa Ferretti Happy 100th Birthday! From: Margaret Mantia

Dolores Fries Happy Birthday! Love and Prayers, Susie

Tom and Heather Hebson From: Heffernan Group Foundation Marie Horvath Happy Birthday! From: Hedy Barth

Mr. and Mrs. Gordon K. Johnson and Family

From: Clary and Susie Redd

Marie King Aunt Marie, Congratulations on Your 102nd Birthday! From: Kenneth and Mary Birk

Paul Kornberger Happy 70th Birthday! From: Walter and Jackie Schuster

Gloria Lee Congratulations on Your 30th Anniversary at Our Lady's Inn! From: William and Jacqueline Hummel Victoria Lee Deacon George Miller Our Lady's Inn Staff Sue Ratchford Paul and Sue Schulte

William Mard My Son From: Anthony Mard

Deb Mauller You Have Been an Inspiration to the Rebuilding of my Faith. Thank You for all You do. From: MWB

Pat McDerby From: Jim McDerby

Emily Meyer Thoughts and Prayers are With You. From: Maryilyn Abkemeier

Our Lady's Inn Congratulations on 30 Years! From: Sue Ratchford

Robert and Julie Peetz From: Clary and Susie Redd

Walt Schuster From: Peter and Sonja Schuster

St. Anthony Thank You! From: Patricia Rothweiler

Lenny and Marie Schulte Happy 50th Anniversary to Our Dear Friends! From: Patrick and Ruth Dyer

Fr. Richard Stoltz From: Immaculate Heart of Mary Church-New Melle

Jan Susi Happy Birthday! From: Sue Bono

Liesel M. Vitellaro Happy Birthday! From: Liesel A. Schneider

Loretto Wagner And the 30th Anniversary of Our Lady's Inn From: Raymond and Ann Wagner

Fred Weckenmann Thanks! From: Judith Farace

Dan Winkelmann Thanksgiving for a Successful Surgery and a Speedy Recovery! From: Maryilyn Abkemeier

Jennie Zeman Special Thanks! From: Stephanie Meyer

9th Annual “Tee off to Life!” Golf Tournament

Missouri Maternity Home Tax CreditsA 50% Missouri Maternity Home Tax Credit is available for all donations of $100 or more, up to $100,000. Donations can be a one time donation or cumulative throughout the year. For more information, please contact Tammy at 314-351-4590 or email her at tduncan@ourladysinn.org. These credits can be used for any monetary donation over $100, including the Capital Campaign. So, when you are trying to decide how much to give or pledge, remember to consider the impact the 50% tax credit will have on reducing your Missouri tax liability come tax time! Also, if you receive the credit, but do not owe on the current year, the credits can be spread over four years!

Golfers enjoying their day at the 2011 golf tournament!

Last year's 8th Annual "Tee off to Life!" Golf Tournament was a huge success, raising over $24,000 for Our Lady's Inn. We are excited to see what we can accomplish this year at the 9th Annual tournament that will be held on Wednesday, June 20, 2012 at the Norman K. Probstein Golf Course in Forest Park. Foursomes are currently lining up to participate, so make sure to get your reservations in early! We are looking forward to a beautiful and sunny, fun day of golf, to help us generate the vital funding that Our Lady's Inn needs to keep serving the wonderful families that come to stay at the Inn. Currently, we are seeking sponsors and are actively looking for auction and goody bag items! If you are interested in playing in the tournament, being a sponsor or donating items, please contact Jessica at 314-351-4590 or email her at jfaltus@ourladysinn.org. You may also register online at www.ourladysinn.org. We look forward to seeing you on the course!

Celebrating 30 Years!Thirty years is a long time these days to remain at one job, but luckily for Our Lady’s Inn, Gloria Lee has done just that! This past January, Gloria

celebrated her 30th Anniversary at Our Lady’s Inn, with a party hosted by the Board of Directors, in a room full of memories! She was surrounded by photos spanning the last thirty years, as well as visits from party guests who were with her in the very beginning of her career! Over the last 30 years Gloria has served in a variety of capacities from being the first live-in house parent to being the Executive Director for 14

years. Lately, Gloria can be found keeping busy in her newly created role as Operations Director! We just wanted to thank Gloria for an amazing lifetime of dedicated service and are excited to see what the next thirty years bring!

NEW Memorial and Tribute ProgramOur Lady's Inn is pleased to introduce our new Prayer Enrollment Program that allows you to send these beautiful memorial and tribute cards for different occasions. There are two options available, one for memorials and one for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, prayer requests, health and healing, etc. The staff and board members of Our Lady's Inn will be offering their prayers, sacrifices and humble acts of love for all the memorials and tributes made.

These cards are available for a donation by calling Jessica at 314-351-4590 or emailing her at jfaltus@ourladysinn.org. You can also make a donation online at www.ourladysinn.org to receive these beautiful cards. The proceeds from this new initiative will provide funds that are vital to our mission so that we can continue to serve women who are homeless and pregnant.

Cover of the new Prayer Enrollment cards.

Ready to laugh for a good cause? Christian comedian Tim Hawkins will hold two events in Missouri, and both will be diaper drives for Our Lady’s Inn. His website is TimHawkins.net and the events will be held Saturday, July 21st at 7:00 pm, at Calvary Church-West in Wentzville and Sunday, July 22nd at 4:00 pm, at Calvary Church-Mid Rivers in St. Peters. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Bring diapers and toilet paper donations to receive a free CD! For more information, call Betsy at 636-398-5375. Thanks and we’ll see you there!

Laugh for a Good Cause!

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NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

ST. LOUIS, MO

PERMIT NO.3361

ADDRESS SERvICE REQUESTED

Changing Lives - Baby Bottle Fundraiser!You, your place of employment, school, church, family or anyone you know can request specially labeled empty baby bottles to fill with loose change as a part of our Changing Lives Program. Call Connie at 314-351-4590 in St. Louis or Betsy in St. Charles at 636-398-5375.

Our Lady’s Inn – St. Louis 4223 S. Compton

St. Louis, MO 63111 314-351-4590

Our Lady’s Inn – St. Charles 3607 Highway D

Defiance, MO 63341 636-398-5375

Providing pregnant women and their children shelter and hope for a new life through humble acts of love.

Rebuilding Lives...One Mother, One Baby, One Family at a Time.

Serving St. Louis Since 1982 • Serving St. Charles Since 2006

Our Mission

www.ourladysinn.org Find us on Twitter and Facebook at ourladyinn

Tour the InnIf you have not seen firsthand what wonderful things Our Lady's Inn is doing, please call to schedule a time to visit us! We would love to help you learn more about who we are and what we do! Please call 314-351-4590 in St. Louis or 636-398-5375 in St. Charles.

Our Lady’s Inn PO Box 18741 St Louis, MO 63118-0741