Saturday, September 28, 2024, was a day of celebration with good food and great friends! It was a day to remember, tell stories, and revisit the last ten years of having the Peace Center at work in the Gert Town/Marleyville neighborhoods of New Orleans, LA.

Over these past ten years, through the generosity and support of our Sisters and Associates, our Advisory Council members and so many friends and family members, the center has provided programs and activities for young and old alike.

During the year of COVID and after Hurricane Ida, with grants from the congregation and donations from many people, we began to help our neighbors having problems with utility and rent payments. The Development Committee of our Advisory Council established the “People Helping People” project which also added to how we could aid the neighbors.

Working with archdiocesan and city agencies; receiving grants from Common Spirit, The Gert Town Fund, Women’s Giving Circle and the Institute for Mental Hygiene, we have maintained our computer classes, after-school program, employment program, special outings and summer camp opportunities. We have also been able to hire a Play Therapist who participates in the after-school sessions.

St. Mary’s Dominican High School students donate all the necessary items for our kids’ holiday parties and Easter baskets of goodies for the residents of the Pine Street apartments. St. Mary’s Dominican High School Alumnae Association established an Amazon account so that its members could purchase items for Bingo prizes, school supplies, and Christmas gifts.

Ten years ago, Srs. Ceal Warner, Suzanne Brauer, and Pat Thomas began the ministries of the center. Sr. Ceal left in 2020,  and Miss Vallerie Maurice joined us in 2021. We continue to provide a place of safety, caring and peace for anyone who comes through the door of 2837 Broadway Street.

Our party on Saturday brought together many whose lives we have touched, who have supported us so much, and to whom we owe great THANKS! Sister Suzanne welcomed everyone and Sr. Cathy Arnold brought good wishes from around the Congregation.

We were so happy to see and host friends old and new!