
Testimonials from Mercy Associates
“As a Mercy Associate, helping those in need, especially in Haiti, is what Mercy is all about. We find compassion, concern, and care for others part of our ministry and part of who we are!”
Karen Penfold
Mercy Associate since 2002
MFOH Donor since 2014
“I’m very proud of being both a donor and a volunteer of this group. We don’t take over for the Haitians we serve. Instead, we help local groups identify what they need and then fund projects using Haitian labor and experts to implement their programs.”
Kathleen E. Nolan
Mercy Associate since 2021
Haiti Helper since January 2024
Callaghan Society Member (Future gift in Her Will/Estate)
“My role at Mercy Focus on Haiti is to take the hand of a generous donor and join it with the hand of a resourceful Haitian. Then I stand back and watch incredible MERCY happen.”
Marion V. Grimes
Mercy Associate since 1983
MFOH Development Committee since 2014
“I support Mercy Focus on Haiti because I know Haitians need my help. I also know the Sisters of Mercy. I’m confident any ministry Mercy Sisters undertake will offer compassion and partnership with the people whose lives they are seeking to help.”
Sue-Rae Glinka
Mercy Associate since 2012
Local Area Facilitator, Vermont
Haiti Helper member since 2025
“The tender Mercy of God has given us each other. I regard the wonderful people of Haiti as my neighbors. Through their struggles Haitians teach me how to be a better person every day. I support Mercy Focus on Haiti because they not only help Haitians but also regard them as treasured neighbors. Please join me in this unique Mercy Ministry.”
Jane Heil
Mercy Associate since 2022
MFOH Donor since 2019
“As an Associate, going to Haiti years ago to see the works of Mercy in action was a very special experience for me. In Mercy, our job is to prayerfully listen to the needs of our Haitian sisters and brothers as they rebuild their nation. I have witnessed them doing a great job with support and encouragement from Mercy Focus on Haiti.”
Ellen Vopicka
Mercy Associate since 1977
MFOH Donor since 2014
“Haitians have been forced to live in extreme poverty for so long. I have a warm regard for those who are struggling and diligent notwithstanding the odds against them. In my small way, I want to help create opportunities — especially for women and children.”
Carolyn McDonnell
Mercy Associate since 2015
MFOH Monthly Donor since 2022
“My heart goes out to the people of Haiti who live in fear of violence from gangs, food shortages, and many other hardships. I am so proud to be able to support the programs developed through Mercy Focus on Haiti. Knowing that I can be part of bringing Mercy to people gives me joy!”
Joanne Castner
Mercy Associate since 2015
MFOH Haiti Helper since 2014
“As people of Mercy, we are bound to see the need and try to alleviate it. We have come to know the needs of those who are poor in Haiti, and we respond. Jesus demands that we be merciful.”
Mary Enyart
Mercy Associate since 2006
MFOH Donor since 2017
“I love focusing on Haiti especially programs that help women. We help women become independent, while enhancing their self-worth. It’s so consistent with our Critical Concerns!”
Jean Galofaro
Mercy Associate since 2004
MFOH Donor since 2016
Haiti Helper since 2021
“I first learned about MFOH’s while I was working with the Chicago Area Justice committee. I have become particularly fond of their Chemen Lavi Miyò Program (CLM) which empowers Haitian woman to be self-sufficient and run their own business. I was lucky enough to go to Haiti and meet some of these strong, beautiful women and feel their energy and hope for the future. As the political conditions have worsened in Haiti this work is needed even more!”
Mary Meillier
Mercy Associate since 2001
MFOH Donor since 2018
After retiring from Mercy Health, I could not wait to become part of the incredible ministry of Mercy Focus on Haiti. MFOH supports programs that empower poor, enterprising, rural women for self-sufficiency resulting in improved living conditions and pathways to a better life for them and their families. For me, MFOH is truly Catherine McAuley’s legacy in action.
Connie Cameron
Mercy Associate since 2016
MFOH Development Committee 2023
Haiti Helper-Monthly Donor Since 2024
“I am drawn to Mercy Focus on Haiti because we help rural Haitian mothers, children, elderly and others who live in deep poverty. Listening to aspiring local Haitians, we offer practical programs which respect the dignity of participants and honor care of the earth. As a Mercy Associate, my covenant promises call me to volunteer and contribute regularly to the people of Haiti via Mercy Focus on Haiti.”
Camilla Lauricella
Mercy Associate since 2007
MFOH Finance and Development Committees since 2024
“As a Mercy Associate, I’m honored to be a volunteer and a donor to Mercy Focus on Haiti. I love our empowering approach to needs in Haiti. For example, rather than simply handing out food, Mercy Focus on Haiti provides Haitians with water and seeds so they can grow their own food. Please join me in learning more about and by making your gift to Mercy Focus on Haiti.”
Pat Rogers
Mercy Associate since 2021
MFOH Maison Bon Samaritain Committee since 2023
