Marillac's Weekly Highlights - June 1, 2011
June 1, 2011
Dr. Richard Spangler
Last week Marillac and St. Vincent's lost a good friend, dedicated volunteer and talented doctor. Dr. Richard Spangler passed away on Thursday, May 26, 2011. Dr. Spangler was a pediatrician who volunteered his services at both Marillac and St. Vincent’s for over 20 years. He had a marvelous way with children, always talking to them calmly and putting them at ease. Over the years he had a positive impact on so many of our families and staff members. He would do practically anything asked of him, including school physicals, health fairs, immunizations and meeting with families to discuss their children’s health concerns. With staff, Dr. Spangler was always willing to share his expertise. He taught many of us about preventive measures, chronic illnesses and child developmental growth. He always was there with a smile to offer his help. Sr. Katie Norris, Carrie Callas and Maureen Hallagan spoke of Dr. Spangler with great fondness and warmth, emphasizing what a difference his generous spirit made to our communities. Marillac and St. Vincent’s are better places because of the presence and work of Dr. Richard Spangler. Our prayers are with his family. He truly will be missed.
LEARN Charter School
On Wednesday LEARN hosted a luncheon for Marillac and LEARN staff to get to know each other. It was a community-building event and that was appreciated by members of both staffs. We are planning to have monthly luncheons between Marillac and LEARN so that everyone will have a chance to get to know each other.
Social Services
In Social Service “The Getting to Know Me” girls group has been meeting weekly for two months. The group celebrated with a luncheon in which they discussed the things that they learned over the course of their time together. The greatest accomplishment was that each girl could say something positive about herself and each of the other group members. The evaluations were quite positive. Most of the girls were sad that the group was ending but happy to hear that they would be meeting monthly to check in.
School Age
The school age classrooms have begun using the new Leap Frog Computers and books that were purchased through the generous literacy grant from the Beck Foundation. The response from teachers has been positive, and the children are excited to have these new programs.
Graduation
On June 7 at 6:00 PM in the Motor Skills room we will be celebrating the graduations of Marillac participants from 8th grade, high school and college. This is a beautiful candle-light ceremony. All are welcome to be part of this powerful event that celebrates the accomplishments of our young people, and shows the impact that Marillac has in their lives.
