American Province Ministry Connections February 2024

South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (SC LAMP) Diana Pinto - Executive Director http://www.southcentrallamp.org/

South Central LAMP marked its 30-year milestone by paying homage to our former executive, Nancee Lee-Allen, presenting her with the prestigious Guiding Star Award. This recognition served as a heartfelt tribute to her dedication and exemplary leadership, which has played a pivotal role in the organization's enduring success. In our commitment to empowering women and families, South Central LAMP fosters growth through education, self-esteem building, and community strengthening. Programs like the Family Literacy and Early Childhood Education programs make lasting contributions to our community. As part of our strategic plan, we have broadened our impact by offering online parent and ESL classes and Kinship Support groups and bringing essential healthcare services directly to the community in collaboration with our partners. Beyond school hours, the Afterschool Expanded Learning Program thrives, providing homework help and STEM activities, cultivating a passion for learning. South Central LAMP's 30-year legacy is a testament to the transformative impact of community-driven programs and services. With a focus on education, building self-esteem, and strengthening community relationships, South Central LAMP continues to be a dynamic force, acting as a positive catalyst for change in the lives of South Central Los Angeles residents. The Guiding Star Award presented to Nancee Lee-Allen serves as a reminder of the inspiring leadership that has guided the organization's journey, shaping its remarkable legacy.

Providence Center    Siria Ana Rivera - Executive Director http://www.providencecentershcj.org/

Last December, Providence Center's holiday party was a heartwarming celebration made possible by the generosity of our partners, Aramark, American Heritage Federal Credit Union, and St. Thomas of Villanova parish. Thanks to their support, every child and teen attending our programming receives a bag of gifts, creating smiles and spreading joy throughout the evening.

Providence's community center was filled with Christmas music while family and friends gathered to share a special meal, fostering a sense of community and togetherness. The highlight of the evening was when the children opened their gifts - their eyes lit up with excitement as they unwrapped their presents! The thoughtful contributions from our partners left a lasting impression on the children and their families. Providence Center's holiday party exemplified the spirit of giving and unity, showing how collaboration and community support can create memorable experiences. As we look back on this heartwarming celebration, we are so thankful to Aramark, American Heritage Federal Credit Union, and St. Thomas of Villanova Parish for making the season brighter for everyone at Providence Center.

Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep    Preston Kendall, President http://www.cristoreystmartin.org/

This past October, Cristo Rey St. Martin physics teacher Kumkum Bonnerjee received a surprising package from a colleague, Chris Call. Initially thinking it was more paperwork, Kumkum was less than thrilled to have it on her desk. Instead, inside the package was an award from the University of Chicago. The enclosed certificate declared her the recipient of the Outstanding Educator of the Year Award, with a touching quote from former student Cristian Garcia expressing gratitude for Kumkum's impact. Known for her supportive yet challenging teaching style, Kumkum humbly credited her community for the achievement, acknowledging her colleagues' collaborative effort and her students' exceptional dedication. "I did not win this award alone, it was a community cultivated effort." Expressing immense pride in being part of CRSM, she thanked the math department for their collaboration and praised her students' resilience in tackling demanding coursework. With 17 years at CRSM, Kumkum emphasized the school's extraordinary support system among faculty and administration. This accolade spurred her to reflect on her teaching journey, acknowledging students' profound impact on her passion for education. She described teaching as her favorite job, contrasting it with her previous corporate career. "The students are the best portion of my job. They constantly rise above my expectations and perform their very best in difficult subjects like physics," says Kumkum. Congratulations poured in for Kumkum Bonnerjee, highlighting her undeniable worthiness for this prestigious accolade. This award is a wonderful testament to how educators have lasting impacts on students and that students benefit greatly from a supportive environment.

Sponsored Ministries of the Society of Holy Child Jesus  Casa Cornelia Law Center * Providence Center Co-Sponsored Ministries of the Society of Holy Child Jesus South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (LAMP) *  Cristo Rey St. Martin College Prep * Hope Partnership for Education *  Cristo Rey New York High School * Washington School for Girls    ~ ~ ~   Ministry Connections is a monthly publication highlighting ministries sponsored or co-sponsored by the Society of the Holy Child Jesus.