COLLABORATION FOR MINISTRY INITIATIVE

In 2001, the Foundation supported research which identified collaboration and capacity-building activities as essential tools for strengthening and sustaining ministries. In 2002, the Saint Ann Foundation began its support of collaborative efforts among congregations of Catholic women religious. The Sisters of Charity Foundation of Cleveland continues this work through the Collaboration for Ministry Initiative (CMI), which now includes a partnership with the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina to assist women religious throughout that state.

Models of Collaboration

Several collaborative ministries are now operating in Northeast Ohio. Here are a few that were spotlighted by the Conference of Religious Leaders:

Beatitude House ― Youngstown, OH

Programs offer transitional housing and assistance with education and career preparation for disadvantaged women and children. Founded by the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown and the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, the program is currently a collaboration of the Sisters of the Humility of Mary and the Sisters of Notre Dame.

Light of Hearts Villa ― Bedford, OH

A collaboration of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine and the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. Licensed for 109 residents, Light of Hearts Villa values holistic healing through the provision of independent and assisted living services.

Regina Health Center ― Richfield, OH

A collaboration of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine and 17 other congregations. The 155-bed facility provides a full range of geriatric services to retired members of 22 religious congregations, diocesan clergy, and lay men and women from across northern Ohio.