March has been deemed Social Work Appreciation Month, an opportunity that allows us time to pause and honor the efforts of professional social workers who have dedicated their career to serving vulnerable populations. Social workers serve in multiple sectors including hospitals and healthcare settings, schools, community mental health centers, etc. Today I would like to highlight the work of social workers in the child welfare system.

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In a world where adversity often sets the boundaries of our potential, John McDowell’s story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. Saint Francis Ministries’ Chief Information Office grew up in a challenging environment, yet he found strength through key moments and people in his life.

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Yes, a full year has passed, and here at Saint Francis Ministries, we’re gearing up for the 13th Match Madness event in Salina, Kansas, on March 21. Sponsored by the Greater Salina Community Foundation (GSCF), Match Madness generates gifts to endowment funds for local charities for long-term support. Saint Francis Ministries has participated for the last several years, using the funds to support essential programs.

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Yesterday, individuals with guns opened fire during Kansas City’s celebration of the Chiefs’ recent Super Bowl victory, killing one and injuring 20. At this point, police believe the shootings resulted from a personal dispute among several people. At least two of the suspects are juveniles, and more than half of the injured are children.

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Here we are right on the cusp of the season of Lent (also, as many will note, today is Valentine’s Day!). Once again, we are presented with the opportunity to make ourselves ready over the course of the coming 40 days to receive the Easter gift of new life and new hope in the Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

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As we honor Black History Month, I recall visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture a few years ago. I vividly remember my feelings of grief as I walked through the museum, viewing pictures, artifacts, sculptures, and numerous writings about slavery and the horrific traumas African Americans suffered during that period.

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As people deeply immersed in the field of child welfare and family services, Saint Francis staff offer significant expertise about the wide range of issues and traumas that affect those we serve. One of those issues is human trafficking. Since January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, we’ve asked Jessica Ristich to share one of the ways in which Saint Francis Ministries works with community partners to protect children and youth from human trafficking.

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