What started as an orphanage before World War I is now a driving force of hope and healing for children in the heart of the Denver community. With a legacy of over 140 years, Mount St. Vincent has stood resilient in the face of many challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a testament to the nonprofit’s commitment to providing a safe sanctuary for children and families in Colorado.
“We were started by nuns, the Sisters of Charity, but charity doesn’t discriminate. We welcome every kiddo and the sisters would tell you the same if you sat down with them today,” said Jenessa Williams, MSV’s executive director.
This highlights the philosophy of nurturing every child to the best of their ability, irrespective of what they’d gone through before arriving at Mount St. Vincent. The nonprofit’s Business Development Coordinator, Monica Segura-Bunch emphasized the organization’s commitment to core programs.
“We fulfill our mission through three main programs: the community preschool, our pediatric behavioral healthcare program, and our foster care system.”
MSV owes much of its success to community support from Denver and beyond. That support is especially important during the holiday season when many kids in foster care can feel increased grief, stress or anxiety. This year, Denver businesses banded together to deliver some cheer: Three Dogs Tavern hosted a holiday gift donation drive to support MSV kids and families. The Harkness Heights Neighborhood Association organized a diaper drive. Law firm Faegre Drinker provided a pizza party, snowman crafts and gifts for a holiday celebration. Spruce Mountain Events visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus with a “Letter to Santa” station. Sooper Credit Union purchased each child a personalized gift. But the best present for a foster kid?
“Another way of providing a gift to a child in need is by becoming a foster parent,” Segura-Bunch said.
The first step in that process would be to take MSV’s preparation course. The nonprofit’s Foster Care Program just announced quarterly dates for its 2024 “Preparing to Become a Foster Parent” course. The first course starts Jan. 25, 2024, with registration closing Jan. 18. The course is virtual for the first nine weeks, and in-person for the 10th session. The last session is held in person as a Q&A session with a panel of MSV’s current foster parents.
Executive Director Jenessa Williams is confident in the organization’s ability to give back to the community, through their impact on one healthy, happy child at a time.
“When there is a need that arises, and a kiddo comes to school with shoes that are not looking so good, we tell them, ‘Hey, let’s grab you some new things and throw in a bag for you to take home to your siblings and family.’”
Mount St. Vincent invites the Denver community to consider including them in their end-of-year giving, extending a friendly invitation to contribute and help with the items remaining on their Wish List. The organization emphasized that every item on the list goes directly to the children and that each item is thoughtfully wrapped by volunteers, making every donation a gift and symbol of hope.