The name may change, but not the heart

Today, as we approached the final days of the Saint Francis Ministries Harry Street Office, I was deeply moved by the unwavering dedication of our Sedgwick County team. The transition of case management services from Saint Francis Ministries to EmberHope marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter, yet the spirit of our work remains unchanged. Saint Francis Ministries has held this contract for more than a decade, fostering a legacy of healing and hope. Now, as we pass the baton back to EmberHope, who previously held the contract, our support for them and the children and families we serve continues steadfastly.

As our team members turned in their computers and name badges, preparing to transition to EmberHope on Friday, I witnessed a powerful moment that encapsulated the spirit of our mission. In the lobby, a distraught youth in our care arrived just as a team member, who had already completed her last day with SFM, was leaving. What happened next was a testament to the true heart of social work.

A moment of recognition passed between them, and then, without hesitation, she dropped her things and embraced the youth, who broke down in tears in her arms. For this soon-to-be EmberHope employee, the caring work never ends, no matter whose name is on her badge. Her immediate focus on providing healing and hope in that moment was truly inspiring.

This heartfelt encounter underscores the core values that both Saint Francis Ministries and EmberHope uphold. It is a reminder that the dedication to providing compassionate care and support transcends organizational boundaries. As our team members transition, their commitment to the children and families we serve remains unwavering.

In this period of change, we extend our gratitude to the Saint Francis Ministries team for their hard work, dedication, and the profound impact they have made over the past decade. We also extend our full support to EmberHope as they take up the mantle once again, confident in their ability to continue this important work with the same level of dedication and compassion.

As we move forward, let us remember that the mission to provide hope and healing is a collective effort. The name on the badge may change, but the heart behind the work does not. Together, we continue to strive for a brighter future for all those in our care.

Picture of Denny Marlin
Denny Marlin

Denny is the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at Saint Francis Ministries.

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