When 16-year-old Jenna showed up on Mary Pat Jahner’s doorstep more than 20 years ago, her situation was dire. “She’d gotten pregnant unexpectedly, and there was pressure from all over the place,” says Hayley Kaffar, communications director for St. Gianna & Pietro Molla Maternity Home. “(She had people telling her)
When Jim Greene’s daughter suggested he check out Memory Cafe, he dug his heels in. “He really didn’t want to come the first time,” says Maggie Ness, the executive director of the Fargo-based nonprofit that helps support individuals and caregivers navigating memory loss. “His wife (Kathyrn) is living through early-stage
You can tell she’s been asked the question a thousand times, but Jenessa Fillipi is more than happy to oblige. “So where does your organization’s name come from anyway?” She recites the song lyrics like they’re her phone number or her kids’ birthdays. It’s second nature at this point. Down
“There are a whole bunch of kids just like you. And you sit in a spot to help not only yourselves but those other children. So what are you going to do?” It was a lot to put on the shoulders of a group of 18-year-olds, but Mary Jean Dehne
“Okay, now tell me about your room.” (Silence) “What furniture do you have for yourself?” Still nothing, but volunteer Judy doesn’t give up easily. “There isn’t anything you need?” Finally, a response: “Nope, I’m here for my kids.” An hour later, Judy has worn her down. The mom of five
This isn’t your typical graduation. There are no caps or gowns, no excited parents corralling kids together for group photos, and no grand plans being made about summer trips or move-in dates for college in the fall. No, this is a different kind of graduation, a celebration not of academic
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