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Board of Directors
Karen Heitzman, President
Ann Maassen, Vice President
Sr. Josephine Oldani, DC, Treasurer
Natalie Nichols, Secretary
Cynthia Biehle
Eva Enoch
Kathy Lass
Sr. Carleen Reck, SSND
Sarah Roe Sise
Mark Whyte
Staff
Pat Joshu, Executive Director
Sarah Paradoski, Program Coordinator
Volunteer Leaders
Jean Smith, Liaison Teacher
Judy Thielker, Liaison Teacher
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Since 1995, Immigrant & Refugee Women's Program (IRWP) has helped women arriving in St. Louis, MO, from foreign countries to make a new life in the United States. Founded by Sr. Elise Silvestri, SSND, IRWP began with six Vietnamese women students. After adding several volunteers and reaching out to other cultures, IRWP became a sponsored ministry of the Notre Dame Ministry Corporation. In 2006, after providing over 300 women from 20 different countries English and life skills instruction, IRWP received its own 501(c)3 status. Since July 1, 2009, 77 volunteer teachers have helped 96 women from 25 different countries increase English and practical living skills.
Grants and donations from individuals, foundations, and groups provide the main financial support for the program, which has a budget of $136,000. Last year, corporations and foundations contributed 78 percent of revenues. Individuals contributed 8 percent, 10 percent came from fundraising efforts such as the annual IRWP trivia night and silent auction, and 4 percent was earned income.
Expenditures in fiscal year 2007-08 include:
- Programs: 83%
- Administration: 11%
- Fundraising: 6%
click to review
2008-2009 990
2007-2008 Annual Report
2007-2008 990 ; Schedule A ; Schedule B
| Pat Joshu, Executive Director |
Women are referred to the program by health care personnel, domestic violence programs, and former and current students, as well as by many organizations, including:
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Catholic Charities Refugee Services
- St. Pius V Refugee Support Program
- Center for Survivors of War Trauma
- Community Alternatives
- Nurses for Newborns
- International Institute
IRWP connects students with other agencies to assist with other family needs.
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