- Christ Child Society

502 N. Crooks Road, Clawson, MI 48017
communiqué
April 2016
www.ccsdetroit.org
pour les enfants
2016
Friday, May 6th
10:30 am - 3pm
Pine Lake Country Club
Back row, l to r: Cathy Mazur, Leslie Wilczewski,
Kathleen McInerney, Lisa Luttmann, Noelle Schiffer,
Susan Mazur, Kathy Milford and Kelly Winkler.
Front row, l to r: Michelle Kelly, Kim Cameron,
Julie Gheen, Lizzy Hardy, Bess Paradiso, Kim
McNulty and Allyson Bakewell.
Welcome to the
Class of 2015!
by Julie Hamaty, Provisionals co-chair
Celebrating mothers, daughters and wonderful women! This
year’s pour les enfants luncheon will be a day you won’t want to miss.
The Christ Child Society of Detroit is coming back to Pine Lake Country
Club for this year’s spring luncheon, pour les enfants, on May 6th. This
special day will feature 16 fabulous vendors; you will find some of your
favorites sprinkled in with new and unique boutique shopping experiences.
We have arranged for one-of-a-kind raffle items, including a beautiful original oil painting which new member and accomplished artist Kathleen
Chisholm McInerney has created just for this event. The afternoon will
include a lovely fashion show featuring models from our Society membership. Mothers, daughters and granddaughters of all ages will be wearing
special fashions from some of your favorite merchants!
Our CCS Woman of the Year will also be announced. Look for your invitation in the mail, and please respond quickly! This event sells out every year.
The Christ Child Society of Detroit has been dedicated to helping children
in need for over 100 years. Proceeds from pour les enfants provide funding
for the many services the Christ Child Society supports. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit our website at www.ccsdetroit.org or contact Nancy Barnett at nancyfergus@yahoo.com.
On January 21, during the Annual Membership
Meeting and Mass at Bloomfield Open Hunt, 17
new members of the Provisional Class of 2015 were
installed. It was a lovely evening spent listening to
Monsignor Zenz’s beautiful homily while horses
cantered in the background.
We are thrilled to report that many members of this
new class have jumped into Christ Child activities
with both feet. Many helped with last year’s Oktoberfest and Christmas Home Tour fundraisers, and
Kim Cameron, Bess Paradiso and Kathy Milford
are excited to lead the committee for the May 6th
pour les enfants luncheon.
In early February, new Provisional Chairs Mary
Bergmann, Julie Hamaty and Ann Jordan held the
first prospective provisional event at Mary’s home.
continued on p. 12
Christmas Home Tour outperformed
once again --------------------------- p. 9
Oktoberfest 2015 broke all our NOA
fundraising records! --------------- p. 10
Page 2
From the President
“We
cannot be afraid of change. We may feel secure in the pond we are in, but if we never venture out of
it, we will never know that there is an ocean. Holding on to something that is good for now, may be the
reason why we do not have something better.” C. Joy Bell
Dear Friends,
Since my last message, we have experienced a change in the Christ Child Society: huge energy, fabulous
new provisionals, a skip in our step! Our Oktoberfest event was a roaring success. Unafraid to go out of our
comfort zone, we opted for a casual, fun affair at the Royal Oak Farmer’s Market where we were able to
raise a net number of $145,000!! A huge thank you to the committee, our volunteers and our sponsors and
special thanks to Sarah and Bob Dodge of Hydro-Zorb for their efforts to make the night an outstanding
success.
We then had a wildly successful Home Tour on December
4th with five fabulous homes and a delightful boutique at the
Birmingham Country Club. Special thanks to Julie Hamaty
and Ann Jordan and their committee for an amazing holiday
event. I also want to thank our Vice President of Fundraising
Carol Roney for all of her efforts in navigating these staple
events for the Society.
As you all know, our beloved Executive Director and Mary Virginia Merrick Award
Winner, Mr. John Yablonky, will be retiring after 20 years of service in May, 2016. As
I write this, we are in the process of finding his successor. Also, at the suggestion of John, the House Advisory Board, the Executive
Committee and the Board of Directors, we are exploring changing the name of the Christ Child House. A nomenclature procedure (the
science of changing a name) is in place. A committee of Society members is using research, surveys, media relations and communications specialists to see if the Society can garner more corporate funding than what we are currently limited to receive. No timetable is
in place. It is a process.
Hopefully, by the time you have received this Communiqué, you will have paid your dues. Please remember we still must pay National if you are a member in some capacity. If you have any questions, please email our Vice-President of Membership Elaina Ryder
at elainaryder@gmail.com
I would like to thank Mr. John Schafer (fiancé of member Kim Cameron) who is building all new dressers for the boys at the House.
The current dressers are slowly falling apart and John is an experienced carpenter. I am truly grateful for his craftsmanship and devotion to the boys at the House.
I am excited to report that our CCS website has a new professional look and is user-friendly across all platforms. By the time you get
this, the new website should be up and running. Check us out on your cell phone at ccsdetroit.org!!! Thank you to Suzanne Sadek and
her company sumosweet for an outstanding job bringing the Christ Child Society Detroit Chapter into the 21st Century!!!
Finally, mark your calendars for our annual spring luncheon on May 6th at Pine Lake Country Club. Kim Cameron, Kathy Milford
and Bess Paradiso and their energetic committee will delight us with Society fashion models
and a vendor boutique, raffle prizes and a red box roll to get you ready for Mother’s Day.
Please respond quickly when you get your invitation - this event is always a sell-out!!
Happy Spring and Blessings to All!!
Pamela Hildebrand
President
Christ Child Society Detroit Chapter
Pam Hildebrand with auctioneer Rip
Hayes and Channel 4 News anchor
Jason Colthorp, our master of ceremonies for Oktoberfest.
Page 3
Katie Parks receives 2015 Red Wagon Award
The 2015 Red Wagon Award Winner is Katie Parks. Katie was honored
at the Mass of Remembrance and luncheon at the Christ Child House on
November 19th; Katie’s younger daughter Clare was on hand to congratulate her mother.
The award is given annually to the volunteer who best exemplifies a “behind the scenes” role in the Society. Katie has been in charge of the program guide for the past two years and has done a fabulous job. She is a
devoted volunteer and an unrelenting patient advocate. She is also an accomplished speaker and is sought out in the community for her insight
into volunteerism and life’s idiosyncrasies. Katie writes a successful blog
as well; please visit theworkingtitle.net to read her insightful opinions.
– Pamela Hildebrand, President, Christ Child Society
New board members
take a bow
Board of Directors members sat for a formal photo at
the annual meeting January 21st at Bloomfield Open
Hunt. Back row l to r: Lanie Cosgrove (Child Enrichment), Tara Nittis (Public Relations), Maria Glod
(House Projects), Barbara Heilala (Spiritual Coordinator) and Kathryn Simonelli (Layettes). Front row l
to r: Amy Gooch (Junior CC), Valerie George (Volunteer Coordinator), Julie Hamaty (Provisionals) and
Jody Jennings (Literacy). Missing were Susan D’Orazio (Art Program), Janet Baccanari (Media) and
Karen Kearns (Meeting Coordinator). Thank you
ladies, for saying YES!
In Memorium Judy Slivinsky, Our 2016 Woman of the Year
This year we honor Judy Slivinski as Christ Child Society’s 2016 Woman of the Year. An active member of Christ Child for more than twenty years, Judy passed away on Sunday, February 7th, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Judy’s soul shone like the sun every day of her life. Her outward beauty could not hold a candle to the beauty she possessed within. Judy’s career was in medical sales, but she dedicated
many hours outside of her professional life to enriching the lives of others. She worked tirelessly for the Christ Child Society, raising funds for the Christ Child House and chairing Night
of Angels three times. She and Valerie Bass chaired the event in 1994 during their provisional
year. And Judy chaired this gala fundraiser twice more, with Maureen Carey, in 2007 and
2008.
Judy’s circle of friends seemed to be infinite. She gathered friends from childhood, business,
neighbors, family, and the Society; Judy truly knew what it meant to be loved by so many. To
quote a friend, “Judy was the umbrella in your cocktail, she brought elegance to the party.”
Judy would be honored and pleased to be recognized by the Society, as she truly lived the
Mary Virginia Merrick motto, “Nothing is ever too much to do for a child.”
Page 4
Junior Christ Child Society News
by Amy Gooch, Junior Christ Child chair
It was a fun and very busy fall and winter for Junior Christ Child members. Our volunteers started
out the year by making dozens of crib blankets for the Layette House. We are so appreciative of
the donations of fleece blankets and also, the time it took to make these blankets for the sweet babies in need.
Amy Gooch and Pam Hildebrand
Supporting the incredible Enrichment Program, JCC volunteers spent time with the Christ Child
House boys at Air Time, Troy Gymnastics, Trunk or Treating at St. Regis and a big Halloween
party held at the Birmingham Athletic Club.
In December, we planned and hosted Santa’s Workshop at the Christ Child House. Many generous
CCS members donated various items to stock the Christmas store. We received toys, scarves, hats, perfume, make up, t-shirts, jewelry,
dolls, puzzles, books and much, much more. The boys were wide-eyed
when they entered the beautifully staged Christmas “store” at the House.
JCC volunteers helped the boys select gifts for their caregivers and loved
ones. The boys carefully wrapped and tagged the gifts they selected. Later
Santa Claus arrived to read a story, lead Christmas carols and answer many
important questions the boys asked about the North Pole. The event
wrapped up with pizza and lovingly baked treats made by Christ Child
members.
In January, a group of very dedicated members spent multiple weekends
working on complex science projects with the boys. It has been an amazing
learning experience for all. The JCC members love getting to know the
boys and spending time with them. We would like to thank the many CCS
members who have made donations to support the Junior Christ Child program.
Junior Christ Child currently has 130 students representing nine area high Olivia Gooch, Grace Allen, Kaley Gooch, Babbie Thomas
schools. Volunteers are given opportunities to participate in the layette pro- and Paige Baccanari help set up Santa’s workshop.
gram, attend events with the boys, take on special projects at the CC House
and Layette House, and to lead and plan the Summer Carnival and BBQ, as well as Santa's Workshop. Each month volunteers attend
enrichment events with the boys. Planning for the next event is currently underway! We welcome new members in grades 9-12 and are
enlisting the help of current members to add incoming freshman to our wonderful group. Please contact Amy Gooch at
akgooch@gmail.com.
Junior Christ Childers answered the call in January
when several of our Christ
Child boys were faced with
challenging science projects
they needed help to complete.
The ever-popular “Coke and
Mentos Rocket” became one
such successful project.
Ally Gantner and Patrick McInerney
help set up the experiment.
Matthew Wall helps a young
student.
Page 5
Juniors at Santa’s Workshop
Zoe Ryder, Grace Allen and Kaley
Gooch make cute Christmas elves!
Mac Hendry plays “Simon Says”
with the boys.
Christ Child Society of Detroit would like to thank our
2015 Event Sponsors
Mr. & Mrs. Hughes Bakewell
Bank of Birmingham
Mr. & Mrs. Russ Brown
CCS Executive Committee
CCS Gavel Club
CCS 2015 Provisional Class
Clavenna Vision Institute
Comerica Bank
Conifer Holdings, Inc.
Mr. & Mrs. Barry Connelly
Mr. & Mrs. David Cosgrove
Creative Brick
Crypton Fabrics
Devon Title
The Dickerson Group
Dinverno Group
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Dodge
Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Duerr
Mr. & Mrs. John Ebbing
EZ Storage
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Farr
Mr. & Mrs. Greg Fisher
Mr. & Mrs. Brendan George
Mr. & Mrs. James Gooch
Leon Halip Photography
Mr. & Mrs. Charles Hamill
Mr. & Mrs. William Hall
Hall & Hunter Realtors
Mr. & Mrs. Ian Hendry
Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Hildebrand
Mr. & Mrs. Ben Hill
H.J. Oldenkamp Co.
Hydra-Zorb
Mr. & Mrs. Ran Jessup
Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Kearns
Keil & Associates, P.C.
Kelly Building & Development
Jeffrey King Interiors
Kastler Construction
Kirco Manix Construction
Edward G. Lennon, PLLC
Lunghammer Chevrolet
The Lynch Group
M&N Plastics
The Mars Agency
Mr. & Mrs. Martin McGough
Meadowbrook Insurance Group
Mechanical Design & Installation
Midwest Resins
Miller Canfield
Dr. & Mrs. Jeffrey Miller
Miller Vein
Mr. & Mrs. David Mouser
Nexlink Communications
Nino Salvaggio International Marketplace
North Brothers Ford
Orange Theory Fitness
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Paradiso
Perspectives Cabinetry
Mr. & Mrs. James Petcoff
Mr. & Mrs. Gerry Phillips
Rizzo Environmental Services
Mr. & Mrs. Brian Roney
Ms. Kathleen Roney
Mr. William C. Roney, Jr.
Gregory J. Schwartz & Company
Mr. & Mrs. Walter Schwartz
Mr. & Mrs. Sean Sherrod
Mr. & Mrs. Rudy Stonisch
Tappers Diamonds and Fine Jewelry
Thomas & Jones Group
Titan Global Oil
Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Trudeau
Two Men and a Truck, St. Louis
Ms. Madelon Ward
Ms. Sally Westerheide
We also want to thank all of our contributors in 2015, who attended our events,
donated items to auctions, purchased auction items, raised your paddle, purchased
raffle tickets, and donated to Memorials and Tributes or to our Layette Program.
Without you we could not have surpassed our fundraising goals.
Helping to wrap that special gift.
Thank you!
Page 6
Time to Get Involved: in the community
Mondays: Make Layettes for babies in need
by Kathryn Simonelli, Layettes chair
For over 100 years, the Christ Child Layette Program, a ministry shared by Christ
Child Chapters across the United States, has made a difference in the lives of newborn babies and their mothers. In 2015, the Detroit CCS Chapter, in partnership
with 20 area agencies, provided over 1,600 layettes for distribution within Wayne,
Oakland, and Macomb counties.
Each layette, valued at $40.00, includes a sleep sack, flannel receiving blanket,
hooded towel and washcloth, body suit, sleeper, gown, burp cloth, cap and socks.
Handmade blankets, booties, and hats, generously donated by Christ Child members, Junior Christ Child members and church groups, make the layettes even more
special!
Our dedicated volunteers ensure that this program continues to flourish in serving
the needs of new mothers and their infants. Please join us on the first Monday
morning or the third Monday evening of each month to assemble layettes at the Virginia Kroha Layette House, located on Crooks Road in Clawson.
April 4, May 2, June 6, July 11
April 18, May 16, June 20, July 25
9:00 -11:00 AM
7:00 - 9:00 PM
Important…
Have you paid your DUES?
Could you please take a moment to check
your records to see if you have paid
them? Christ Child Society of Detroit pays
National Christ Child Society dues for
each person on our membership roster. We
have already paid those dues to National
for this year.
Another important thing to note is
the Dues Renewal Form asks you for your
volunteer hours. The total number of volunteer hours by the Society, as a whole,
helps us to acquire grants. There are so
many wonderful opportunities available to
get involved in CCS and, so many reasons
to pay your dues. If you have any questions, concerns, or need a Dues Renewal
Form, please contact Elaina Ryder, VP
Membership, at elainaryder@gmail.com.
Bess Paradiso and Kelly Winkler help
organize supplies at the Layette House.
Donate a layette
in honor of someone you love
Christ Child Society offers a unique way to honor loved
ones in your life. For more than 90 years, CCS has distributed layettes to newborn babies in need. This year alone
we will assist 2,000 mothers and infants in Oakland and
Wayne counties through various hospitals and service
agencies.
Please consider this meaningful opportunity to honor a
special person in your life, or to celebrate a new baby or
grandbaby. Each Layette is $40. Honorees or their family
member will receive a lovely card acknowledging your
donation.
Watch your mail in May for this year’s Appeal. For more
information, contact Katie Serda at kmsserda@gmail.com.
Page 7
Time to Get Involved: in the community
Tuesdays: Join the Literacy champions at the Whitmer Center in Pontiac
by Jody Jennings and Lori Anderson, Literacy Program chairs
The gift of books and the love of reading are shared with the children at Whitmer Human Resource Center in Pontiac through the CC Literacy Program. We go monthly and share our enthusiasm and dedication to children in need.
Each child receives his or her own book to keep. The volunteers often dress as characters in the story! We read the
book to the class as a group, have a movement activity, prepare a craft and end with a snack.
We began the school year celebrating Halloween, reading “Too Many Pumpkins.” The
children made their own jack-o-lanterns, cutting out pieces of black paper to make
“shapes” for the eyes, nose and mouth. With great excitement, we hung the completed jack-o-lanterns around each classroom.
November’s was a favorite book for sure, “Pete the
Cat: the First Thanksgiving.” The children enjoyed
the “lift the flaps” in the book, while also learning
about the first Thanksgiving in such a fun way. Our
project was to decorate colorful turkeys with pieces
of torn construction paper. The creativity of the
children was wonderful. We did some fun turkey
Students show off their baseball songs and a poem as well.
cookies.
“Tacky the Penguin” was our book in December
and the volunteers dressed up really tacky! The
book had a beautiful message about how it is OK to
be different, and, in the story, being different saved Lori Anderson, Jane Juett and
Maurine Dougherty prepare to engage
the day. We made paper penguins with tacky
the class.
bowties. The children loved the candy cane snack.
In January we had snow fun by reading “There was A Cold Lady Who Swallowed
Some Snow.” The children were familiar with the story and were thrilled to help us
with “what happened next” as we read the story. We decorated foam snowflakes and
enjoyed a “snowball” snack: powdered donut holes.
Molli Saeli and Jody Jennings,
dressed in Red Riding Hood
costumes.
“The Biggest Valentine Ever” was a perfect choice for February. We made “mouse”
Valentine cards in which the children could add their personal message to give to
their special Valentine. Both our song, Skidamarink, and the box of candy hearts with
Valentine sayings were big hits!
The program’s success is due to the strong commitment of our fabulous volunteers. THANK YOU to our “regulars.”
We invite all CCS members to join us, there will be information each month in “Monday Matters” several weeks
before each visit. JOIN US! For more information contact Jody Jennings at jody55@gmail.com.
REMINDER
All active members are asked to donate at least 30 hours annually to one of our programs or fundraisers.
Page 8
Time to Get Involved: at the House
Wednesdays: Help our budding artists at the House
By Cindi Mosher, co-chair, Art Enrichment
The Art Enrichment Program is in its second year, spearheaded by our devoted teacher and therapist, Molly Murphy. Classes are held twice a month on Wednesday evenings at the House, making it
convenient for the boys to participate. There are consistently 8-10 boys who attend the classes,
which provide significant therapeutic advantages. The growth in class
participation, self-expression, and art skills is definitely evident over
time. This year’s art projects include clay masks, tie-dye drawstring
bags, wooden boxes, leather and beaded bracelets, watercolor and
acrylic painting, and model puppets. Molly directs every class and all
supplies are provided. Ideally, three CCS volunteers are needed for each
class to assist the boys with their projects and help with set-up and
cleanup. The time commitment is approximately two hours. The Art
The boys love to make masks!
Program will take place on April 6 and 20, also May 4 and 18. If interested in participating, please contact Cindi Mosher at doymo@comcast.net or Susan D’Orazio at susandorazio@comcast.net.
Occasional days: Field trips and after school
fun with the boys
by Lanie Cosgrove, Child Enrichment chair
It has been a successful few months with the boys of the Christ Child House. We have
done a variety of activities including AirTime Trampoline, open gym at Troy Gymnastics with dinner at Shield’s Pizza, and ice cream at Dairy Queen and a trip to Marvin’s Magical Museum. We have had great fun with the Junior Christ Child members
and our Christ Child Society members who are always willing to help. A special
thank you to my sister and Christ Child member, Liz Hardy, who has covered for me
when I was not able to be at an event.
We are looking forward to our upcoming events, which include Marian and Rice Players production of Beauty and the Beast. Our very own Junior Christ Child member,
Clare Parks, is “Beauty.” And her mother, Katie, has generously offered to sponsor
this event. We are also hoping to do a Soccer Clinic and possibly a Meditation and
Yoga clinic. Every event with the boys is priceless and their appreciation and enthusiasm is a gift to all the participants.
A visit to AirTime is always fun!
Note: The Heartwarmers Program is transitioning to new leadership. After many
years of dedicated service, Mary Lou Drewniak has decided to step down; Sarah
Kepic and Kelly Eberlein will be taking over. Stay tuned for more information
about this worthwhile and easy after-school program at the House.
TUTORS ARE NEEDED AT THE HOUSE
Our boys need help with their homework! No special teaching skills are
needed – just love, patience and a commitment to come once a week for at
least 3 months. Contact Tamiko Walton at 313-584-6077.
The Christ Child boys enjoyed their outing to see
Clare Parks play Belle in “Beauty and the Beast.”
Page 9
Home Tour sells out again!
by Carol Roney, VP Fundraising
Our Christmas Home Tour has become,
for so many women (and a few men!), a
wonderful tradition beginning the Christmas Season. There are few better ways to
spend an early December day than with
good friends, visiting absolutely
stunning homes,
shopping and dining! Julie Hamaty
and Ann Jordan
chaired the 2015
Home Tour and created a truly special,
magical day for all who attended. Together with their amazing committee –
Maria Glod, Elaina Ryder, Lanie Cosgrove, Lori Gothard, Carol Roney, Nora
Hamill, Nichola Hendry, Mari MacKenzie, Katie Gantner, Lisa Dolson, Laura
Dabaldo, Babbie Thomas, Valerie George,
Liz Lee, Pam Surhigh, Karen Kearns,
Michelle Kelly, Amy Gooch, Kim McNulty and Tina Stonish – they made this
year’s event spectacular.
The homes were all so different and beautifully decorated for Christmas, evoking
the personalities of the homes and their
owners. We are especially grateful to our
homeowners, who so generously opened
their homes for this event: Marianne and
John Boukamp, Susan and Mark Davis,
Christine and Bill Harriss, Jenny and Chris
McCuiston and Karen and Rick Williams.
Once again a delicious day-long brunch
was served at Birmingham Country Club.
And numerous vendors helped attendees
get their Christmas shopping started. Our
dedicated team of docents had fun welcoming guests into the houses, sharing details of the homes and nice stories about
the families.
Home Tour Co-Chairs Julie Hamaty
and Ann Jordan.
This being our final fundraiser of the year
helped top off our most successful efforts.
Our record number of sponsors and attendees helped to raise more than $54,000 for
the programs we support. A heartfelt thank
you to Julie and Ann for all of their hard
work in making this event such a success!
Jeanine Lunghamer, Lauren Fisher and
Christine Giampetroni
Nichola Hendry, Bess Paradiso and
Gail Callaghan
Paula Boehman and Michelle Kelly
Lori Anderson and Cindy Van Dusen
Page 10
Oktoberfest Angels come through!!
by Carol Roney, VP of Fundraising
Apparently change is a good thing! This was clearly evidenced by the overwhelming
support we received at this year’s annual Night of Angels’ fundraiser. A casual, fun Oktoberfest-themed night at the Royal Oak Farmers’ Market was planned by our remarkable chairperson Sarah Dodge and her dedicated committee: Allyson Bakewell, Jill
Barker, Nancy Barnett, Mary Bergman, Dawn Bradley, Kim Cameron, Julie Gheen,
Michelle Kelly, Laura Keziah, Lisa
Luttman, Kathleen McInerney, Kathy
Milford, Kristine Miller, Bess Paradiso,
Molly Robinson, Carol Roney, Noelle
Schiffer, Julie Sosa and Kelly Winkler.
More than 400 attendees had a blast enjoying the evening. Sponsor banners
hung from the rafters, blue and white
checked tablecloths and a cigar bar
helped transform the market into a GerEvent chair Sarah Dodge, left, with Laura
man biergarten. A strolling German dinKeziah, Rip Hayes and Pam Hildebrand
ner and fantastic silent auction was
planned by Bess Paradiso and Julie Sosa.
Also, cocktails sponsored by Atwater Brewery, The Fine Wine Source, Frankenmuth and
Griffin Claw Breweries, Michigan Growler and Tito’s Vodka were enjoyed by all!
The 2015 Mary Virginia Merrick Award recipient was our own Christ Child House Executive Director John Yablonky. Former Detroit Chapter President and past National
Christ Child Society President Maureen Wesley presented the award to John. This was
particularly fitting as Maureen hired John 20 years ago to oversee the House and care for
our boys. John’s devotion to the boys and their welfare makes him the perfect recipient.
Laura and Paul Drouillard with Laura
Keziah
Joi Leo, Donna Brown and Marina
Gleeson
Laura Keziah and auctioneer Rip Hayes presented the fabulous live auction items and
generated tremendous excitement. We had a very special opportunity this year to pay the
tuition for one of our boys who attends Loyola Catholic High School in Detroit. Two
very generous donors stepped up and paid for two years’ tuition. A lucky guest won two
tickets to Jimmy Kimmel Live! Dancing to the music of the popular band Good Gravy
ended the evening.
We are most grateful to our Event Sponsor Hydra-Zorb, and to all our sponsors for helping to make this the most successful single fundraising event we have ever held! More
than $145,000 was raised to benefit the programs of the Christ Child Society and the
children we serve. It could not have been possible without Sarah Dodge and her tireless
dedication, exciting ideas and sheer determination to ensure its huge success. Thank you
to our membership, their friends and family who all supported the 2015 Night of Angels
Oktoberfest.
Kelly Dinverno, Megan and Aden Shea,
Kelly Eberlein and Sarah Kepic
Mark Wayne and Carolyn Mergel
Page 11
Congratulations to John Yablonky,
our Mary Virginia Merrick Awardee for 2015
One of the highlights of this year’s Night of Angels
gala was the presentation of the Mary Virginia Merrick
Award. Past President Maureen Wesley made some
heartfelt comments before current President Pamela
Hildebrand presented the award to John.
“I was president of the Detroit chapter in 1995 when
John took over from Fran Geiger as Executive Director of the Christ Child House. John completed the
gradual transition of the House from a temporary shelter to a licensed treatment center for abused and neglected youngsters. In the past twenty years he has seen
John Yablonky
accepts his award. many changes, and weathered many storms. When
John arrived, the House was serving both boys and
girls; he helped us make the right decision to serve only boys as their numbers were greater. When the child welfare system had so many children that
they were sleeping in the hallways at social services until they could be
placed, John expanded the number of beds at the House to help meet the demand. He has had to continually adjust the age range of the boys we took in
and upgrade our treatment model as their problems, sadly, grew more severe.
He has helped us survive several economic downturns and crises in state
funding, and recently created the respite program to assist families in danger
of failed adoptions, adding to our value to the state and providing essential financial security.
President Pamela Hildebrand and Past Presidents
Molly Robinson, Jill Barker, Elaine Szot and Maureen
Wesley congratulate John Yablonky on his 20 years of
service to the boys of the Christ Child House.
Over the years John has brought together an amazing staff, and worked with
them to provide appropriate care to increasingly damaged children, while
maintaining a family atmosphere at the House. He has been a tireless advocate for children and has earned an outstanding reputation among child welfare professionals throughout the State of Michigan.
Perhaps John’s greatest achievement is, despite having nine “bosses” in
twenty years – of every different personality – he has managed to survive!
And helped our Christ Child House to survive, and thrive. In 2015 the House
celebrated its 67th year of service to the children of Michigan, the last 20
under the gentle guidance of John Jablonky. We could not be more proud to
present this year’s Mary Virginia Merrick Award to John Yablonky, Executive
Director of the Christ Child House.”
Staffers Myron Dawson and
Olethia Craighead applaud as
John receives his award.
House staffers, l to r, Tonia Hayes, Nicole MacAdoo,
Kristi Livengood, Nicki Hess, Landon Hill and
(seated) Myron Dawson are happy to
congratulate their “boss.”
Mary Jean and John Yablonky with Jill Barker
Bill and Joan Cannon have worked at the
House for 20-plus years, Bill as our maintenance man and Joan as Facilities Manager.
Page 12
12th Night 2016
by Dawn Bradley, Provisionals 2015 chair
On Saturday, January 9th, the boys we serve at the Christ Child
House were taken out for an evening of fun.
While the boys were gone, the ladies of the Provisional class
began transforming the common areas of the House with plaids,
birch, faux fur, twinkle lights and pine. Within two hours a
bountiful buffet and friendly bar were ready for guests to enjoy,
in what felt like an elegant, cozy, up north lodge.
As is customary, John spent much of the evening taking guests
on tours of the home, while other guests enjoyed food, wine
and each other’s company.
When the boys returned home, they each found on their bed a
Star Wars fleece blanket and their very own duffel bag. The
Provisionals carefully selected these gifts with the boys in
mind...the fleece blanket to provide warmth and comfort, and
the sturdy duffel bag for the boys to carry their belongings
when they leave the House…. hopefully, one day, to go to their
forever home.
The evening showed that this Provisional class fully embraces
the mission of the Christ Child Society and vision of Mary Virginia Merrick!
Standing l to r: Julie Gheen, Susan Mazur, Lisa Luttmann, Cathy
Mazur, Claudia Duerr, Kim McNulty, Bess Paradiso, Kim
Cameron. Sitting: Michelle Kelly and Dawn Bradley.
Provisionals
continued from page 1
Twenty-one enthusiastic and dynamic ladies
turned out to hear more about Christ Child
Society of Detroit and what the provisional
year will entail. Many signed on that
evening!
On March 8th we met at the home of Ann
Jordan to plan our Easter baskets for the
boys, which we assembled on March 22nd in
the spacious board room at H. J. Oldencamp.
On April 11th we will gather at the Layette
House to help assemble layettes and learn
about the history of this project from Kathryn
Simonelli.
We are planning to meet at Indian Hill in
Pontiac on May 10th to learn about the different CCS Community Service opportunities, including the Literacy program, Art
Enrichment at the House and the Child Enrichment program.
June 4th is Spring cleanup and flower planting day at the Christ Child House! And June
7th the provisional class is invited to participate in the Literacy program at the Whitmer
Center in Pontiac.
Remember to “like” and “share” us
on Facebook!
www.facebook.com/christchildsociety
Send photos for posting to Janet Baccanari at
jkbaccanari@west.com
Page 13
House Happenings
By John Yablonky, executive director
The House is currently serving 20 boys,
six of them at the higher intensive rate. We
have had one admission and one discharge
to a psychiatric hospital for long term
care.
Eight new part-time Youth Specialists
were hired and we have selected a new
RN, who will begin employment soon. We
have also hired a full-time academic coordinator, TamikoWalton, to assist with
school liaison work with our nine schools
and with our tutors. She will also work
with our boys and their daily homework
assignments. One new volunteer tutor
began and she will continue to visit the
House every Wednesday. We are actively
seeking candidates for the Executive Director position.
Fall programming for our boys included a
special Thanksgiving dinner at the Greater
Grace Temple. Four different youth groups
visited the House, including a pre-dental
group of University of Michigan students
who educated the boys about proper oral
hygiene.
December, as always, was a special month
for the boys with two Christmas parties Compound Foundation and the Universal
Empowerment Center for Children and
Families, (U.E.C.). Additionally, we had
student groups from University of Detroit
Mercy, Wayne State (pre-nursing), Edsel
Ford High, Wayne State National Collegiate Scholars and Brother Rice. The boys
enjoyed our “House Christmas” and several nice post-Christmas outings included
Greenfield Village/Henry Ford, Royal Oak
Creative Arts Studio and Franklin Athletic
Club.
In January, we try to bring the boys
“down” from their Christmas holiday season high as we return to basic programming. We resumed our weekly group and
individual programming, and initiated a
new behavioral point system to reinforce
good behavior and attitudes. The boys enjoyed a nice night out for 12th Night at
Troy Gymnastics and Buddy’s pizza.
Youth groups visited the boys from Dearborn Fordson High School and the University of Detroit. Art classes resumed twice
monthly as did our weekly visits to the
John Yablonky looks on as Santa talks
with the boys at the House.
YMCA. We had a special speaker present
on Martin Luther King’s birthday, Dr.
Elizabeth Allen, a retired professor of
nursing from the University of Michigan.
A Hollywood producer and his two
screenwriters interviewed me recently for
their upcoming movie in Detroit about two
girls who grew up in foster care. They felt
that my consultation would add authenticity to their story. I will keep you all updated as to any developments in this area!!
Remembrance Mass and Annual Membership Meeting
by Barb Heilala, spiritual coordinator
Our annual Mass of Remembrance and luncheon was held at the
Christ Child House on November 19, 2015. The beautiful Mass
celebrated by Msgr. Zenz honored our members, family and
loved ones who died in the past year. Spiritual coordinator Linda
Simonelli read the names of the deceased and asked a family
member to come forward to light a candle in their memory. May
their light shine before God.
After the Red Wagon Award was presented to Katie Parks for all
her dedicated service, we proceeded to our luncheon. Members
brought a feast of salads and desserts that were appreciated by
all. Extra yummy goodies were made just for the boys to enjoy
when they returned home.
Special thanks go to Patty Ward and Tony Bernardo for providing
music and song for our special memorial Mass. It is always good
to be surrounded by family and friends in a time of loss.
“Friendship doubles our joy
and divides our sorrow.”
– Swedish proverb
Our annual membership meeting was held on January 21, 2016
at the Bloomfield Open Hunt Club. We began with Mass celebrated by Msgr. Zenz in a room overlooking their indoor equestrian facility. Thank you Monsignor for turning our hearts and
minds toward the gospel message. Your gentle kindness and
understanding are always a blessing for each of us.
Following Mass, we had the installation of 17 Provisional
Christ Child members under the leadership of Dawn Bradley,
Claudia Duerr and Marlen Borio. Then came the commitment
ceremony for the new Board of Directors. A dinner reception
followed in the adjoining dining room, along with the annual
business reports.
Special thanks to Patty Ward and Brian Izan for putting their
voice and music to the very moving songs selected for our special mass. “The Servant Song” certainly speaks to our mission
and our faith:
“Will you let me be your servant,
Let me be as Christ to you
Pray that I may have the grace
To let you be my servant too.”
Page 14
Memorials and Tributes
from August 4, 2015 – March 1, 2016
Memorials
For:
Judy Hogan
From: John Stodart
Mr. and Mrs. David Adams
Michael Stevens Family
Michael Keman Family
Kathleen Miller Family
William Keller
Lee and Brad Kent
Lorraine Pfahler
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
Dennis Blulam
Mrs. Patricia Alandt
Rita Geoffrey
Sheila and Michael Cloonen
Tammy and Craig Outland
Frances and Leonard Nagi
Jean and John Wicket
Peg Barbour
Dolores and Keith Walterhouse
Jean and Emmanuelle Bomben
Diane and Don Lewis
Lori Kavanagh
Rita Geoffrey
Charlene and Don Oesch
Thomas Geoffrey
Mr. and Mrs. Ed Powell
Maureen Wesley
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hansberry
Mrs. Patty Pierce
Mr. and Mrs. Roger Travis
Mr. and Mrs. Jim Shaw
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Cook
Mr. and Mrs. Rodney Lyons
Mr. and Mrs. Sandy Corneillie
Mr. and Mrs. Ted Allison
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Loree
Mrs. Mary Loree Rini
For:
From:
Helen Groen
Paulette and David Groen
For:
From:
Martin Burczak
Celia Burzcak
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
Rita Neiman
Lorraine McLaughlin
Mary Miller
Pamela Hildebrand
For:
From:
Gertrude Rush
Peggy and Richard Berta
For:
From:
James Carey
Pamela Hildebrand
Memorial and Tribute contributions to the Christ Child Society honor
your loved ones, friends and associates and help to support the
Society’s programs for needy children. The family of the deceased or
honoree will receive an acknowledgement of your gifts. The deceased
or honoree will also be remembered in a special Mass said by the
Society’s Spiritual Director, Monsignor Zenz.
Molly Gibbons Robinson, Memorials and Contributions coordinator
Brian Cady
Georgianne Lane-Cary
Robert Wright
Dorothy Write
Frank Barthel
Carol Shaya
Pamela Hildebrand
Thomas Fruchtenechtt
Catherine Anhut
Madeline Reid
Jane O’Halloran
F.X. Westerheide
Joanne Baughman
Carolyn Mergel
Pamela Hildebrand
Lori and Mark Nixon
Elizabeth and Sharad Jain
Dr. and Mrs. Richard Brochu
Suzanne Rondeau
Mary Johnson
Kathlen and Chris Konal
Jill Barker
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Verbiest
Sally Versaci
Sue Westerheide
Molly and David Robinson
Mary Jo and Gene Meso
Dick Westerheide
Carolyn Mergel
Pamela Hildebrand
Molly and David Robinson
Joanne Baughman
Marjorie Shields
Mary Stone
Skip and Mike Borrington
For:
From:
Susan Bishop
Paul Becker
Mary Alice Gartland
Sue and Bill Conway
Barb and Brant Shuman
Molly and David Robinson
Pamela Hildebrand
Marlen and Ed Borio
Denise and Mark Winston
For:
From:
Deirdre McGahey
Deidre Forrest
For:
From:
Cy and Marie Link, John Mergel
Carolyn Mergel
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
Grace Wallich
Gerald Hale Ladue
Edward Nakfoor
Lillian Nakfoor
Maxine Osborn
Peg Harber
Jorge Torriglia
Peg Harber
Patrick Duffy
Camilla Kavanagh
Richard Longley
Marcia Longley
Helen Steffens
Connie Langraff
Ann Betrus
Mary Ann Atchoo
Katie Mead
Jeanine and Charles Wofford
Judy Slivinski
Pamela Hildebrand
Mark Wiltz
Gigi Fisher
Tributes
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
For:
From:
Pat Hardy
Patti and John McGowan
Shari Robertson
Thomas Kellett
Molly and David Robinson
Sonja Komendera
Debbie Crawford
Allison and David Shay
Jane Juett
Edwina Anthony
Kate Robinson Bongiorno
(Birthday)
Patsy and Ted Hannah
Katie Parks – Red Wagon Award
Joanne and Lou Baughman
John Yablonky
Ronna and Marc Taub
For:
From:
Kennary Family
Jean Lyon Kennary
For:
From:
Kathy Holmes
Molly and Tom Saeli
For:
From:
For:
From:
Pat Oldford
Elaine and Gordon Didien
Celia Burczak and Elaine Miller
Marcia MacDonald
Memorial Masses from the Society
Rita Geoffrey
Mother of Member Cindy Geoffrey
Mary Miller
Mother of Member Mary Taylor
Hohensee Family
Christine and Michael Lapinski
Frank Barthel
Father of Member Katie Parks
Paul O’Hare
Brother of Member Kelly Nagle
Maureen Carey
Donna Carey
Larry Davidson
Husband of Member Crystal Davidson
Harm Family
Christine and Michael Lapinski
Mark Your Calendar!
Evening of reflection
Tues. April 12, 2016
Mass at 6:30 pm
Holy Name Chapel
followed by
Msgr. John Zenz
reflection on
Pope Francis’ Encyclical
On Environment and the
Year of Mercy:
“Conversion to the earth
and to each other.”
Dick Westerheide
Brother of Member Sally Westerheide
Maureen McDonough
Member of Christ Child Society
James North
Father in Law of Member Gwen North
Dr. F.X. Westerheide
Father of Member Sally Westerheide
Robert Solner
Friend of Christ Child Society
Mary Alice Gartland
Mother of Member Claudia Duerr
Deirdre McGahey
Mother of Member Deirdre Forest
Dr. Peter Sofiaa
Father of Member Suzanne Schmidt
Mary Kay Rich
Member
Helen Allen
Member
Page 15
Judy Slivinski
Member
Dennis Sullivan
Husband of Member Pat Sullivan
Donor Contributions to support the
Children we serve
Gail Barnhart
Lorraine McLaughlin
Rose Eilers Zawislak
Sue and Charlie Fritz
John Slausky
Joan Gaston
Katie Mielock
Mrs. Thomas Payne
Mary Kay Rich
Diane and Frank Smith
Celia Burczak
Donna Halter
Ellen and Charles Stuart
Elizabeth and Terrance Meter
Dr. and Mrs. Frazer McKenzie
Mary and Ed Woycik
William Wogh
Cindy Van Dusen
Melissa and John Nachazel
Janelle Cousino
Communiqué
Contributors
Editor: Nichola Hendry
Writers: Dawn Bradley, Lanie Cosgrove, Amy Gooch, Julie Hamaty,
Betsy Heid, Barb Heilala, Nichola
Hendry, Pamela Hildebrand, Jody Jennings, Cindi Mosher, Carol Roney,
Kathryn Simonelli
Photographers: Nichola Hendry, Joan
Page, Sally Gerak/Downtown
Proofreaders: Nichola Hendry,
Pamela Hildebrand
Layout: Betsy Heid
Once again, beautiful houses were opened to us for the 2015 Christmas Home Tour.
502 N. Crooks Road Suite A, Clawson, MI 48017