Sojourner House Board News
Wonder why the staff paints the hands of our clients and their children red? SURPRISE! It is so they can put their handprints on the "Wall of Completion" when they complete the program and 'graduate' from Sojourner House. This is the day that marks success and celebration. It is what we all work for . . . to cheer these mothers and families on to a better life.
There is a lot going on at Sojourner House as we approach the holidays! Our next board meeting is on Monday, January 14, 2008. Here are some things to keep in mind.
New Board Member Orientation: Joanne, chair of our Governance Committee, has organized an orientation for our five new members to meet staff, tour the facility, and learn about the work at Sojourner House. This is set for Monday, November 26, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. New board members should be getting invitations soon and can RSVP by calling Sojourner House at 412-441-7783.
Staff Christmas Party: Joann, our ED, is planning a Christmas party for the staff in December. As soon as the date is decided, Kathy will send an e-mail to invite you to come and honor our staff and encourage them. The holidays are difficult and stressful for all of us; but they can be extremely difficult for people in recovery. If you are available to join us to support the staff at the party, please feel welcome to come and meet the great group of caring people that work at the Sojourner House facilities.
Wonder why the staff paints the hands of our clients and their children red? SURPRISE! It is so they can put their handprints on the "Wall of Completion" when they complete the program and 'graduate' from Sojourner House. This is the day that marks success and celebration. It is what we all work for . . . to cheer these mothers and families on to a better life.
There is a lot going on at Sojourner House as we approach the holidays! Our next board meeting is on Monday, January 14, 2008. Here are some things to keep in mind.
New Board Member Orientation: Joanne, chair of our Governance Committee, has organized an orientation for our five new members to meet staff, tour the facility, and learn about the work at Sojourner House. This is set for Monday, November 26, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. New board members should be getting invitations soon and can RSVP by calling Sojourner House at 412-441-7783.
Staff Christmas Party: Joann, our ED, is planning a Christmas party for the staff in December. As soon as the date is decided, Kathy will send an e-mail to invite you to come and honor our staff and encourage them. The holidays are difficult and stressful for all of us; but they can be extremely difficult for people in recovery. If you are available to join us to support the staff at the party, please feel welcome to come and meet the great group of caring people that work at the Sojourner House facilities.
Victorian Tea for 2008: The Victorian Tea is scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2008, from noon until 2 p.m. at Amici Ristorante on Route 51. The tea committee is in full swing planning the event. If you wish to join the committee, please contact Jill at the Sojourner House office for more information. For the rest of us, it is time to begin thinking of donated items to create the wonderful gift baskets for the tea. As you do your holiday rounds, be sure to ask your favorite businesses and friends for items that would contribute to a special basket. Samples of things we've had in the past are:
- Tickets to sporting events.
- Tickets to plays and cultural events.
- Dinner for two at a restaurant.
- Getaway weekend at a hotel.
- Spa services, massages, pedicures.
- Handbags, jewelry, scarves.
- Cookbooks, food items, kitchen items.
- Children's toys, books, games.
- Pittsburgh Zoo or Aviary or Children's Museum Passes.
- Cosmetics, perfume, purses, luggage.
- Gift certificates to clothing stores or boutiques.
Virtually anything can be combined with other items to make a great prize. The committee will be coming out with the list of "Themes" for this year's baskets very soon. However, please don't turn any donation down. Call Jill to let her know of any donations you can obtain.
The other thing you need to do is start making a list of people to invite to the Tea to introduce them to the great things we are doing to help the Pittsburgh families in our communities. The Tea is a wonderful way to get people acquainted with the organization. So please make out your Sojourner House list when you write your holiday greetings!
Walk for a Healthy Community sponsored by Highmark: Plans for the 6K walk starting at Heinz Field in May are already underway. Anne is head of this committee. If you are interested in getting involved and helping with this event, contact her or call the Sojourner House office to volunteer.
Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Your work for this great organization is greatly appreciated.
The other thing you need to do is start making a list of people to invite to the Tea to introduce them to the great things we are doing to help the Pittsburgh families in our communities. The Tea is a wonderful way to get people acquainted with the organization. So please make out your Sojourner House list when you write your holiday greetings!
Walk for a Healthy Community sponsored by Highmark: Plans for the 6K walk starting at Heinz Field in May are already underway. Anne is head of this committee. If you are interested in getting involved and helping with this event, contact her or call the Sojourner House office to volunteer.
Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Your work for this great organization is greatly appreciated.
Kathy
