Stillwater:
Catholic Charities Bringing Education to Those in Need
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hen it comes to job opportunities, not having a high school diploma or GED can be a big hindrance. In particular, this lack of education often impacts our friends and neighbors in minority groups. Catholic Charities Stillwater volunteers work to close this education gap so that people across all groups can have equal opportunities. The center is located at the former St. Francis Xavier Church at 601 S. West, Stillwater. Mike Fitzgerald has been working with Catholic Charities for about a year. He coordinates all of the activities at the center, administers the various tests that are offered, and teaches English as a Second Language (ESL) with his wife, Robin. “We are waging war on the last form of discrimination, educational racism,” he says. All students in the ESL classes are St. Francis Xavier parishioners. The available tests are the GED and HiSET test, which is similar to a GED but more flexible. Free childcare is offered by volunteers at the center for children ages one and up. Mike notes many of the students are mothers.
Volunteer Guy Palladino and St. Francis Xavier Operation Manager Sheryl Lacy visit the Catholic Charities center.
“Time, talent, and treasure — it is our obligation to serve in these three ways,” Mike says. “Volunteering with Catholic Charities is a way that qualifies for all three. There isn’t anything that is hard — it’s like working with your children on their homework. Just showing up and being there is the biggest part.” The GED classes are a bit more work to teach, but Mike says anyone with basic schooling can be trained. When we offer someone the
opportunity to further their education, we offer so much more than just a one-time gift. The gift of education is one that keeps on giving. “Showing Christ’s merciful love is the easiest and most important part of my ministry,” Mike says. For Mike, it is enjoyable to make learning fun and to help people reach the “aha!” moments, where they suddenly understand a concept. The ESL classes are a two-hour commitment each Thursday. continued on back cover
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