In communities across New York, two remarkable women are making a profound impact through their work with Catholic Charities NY. Pat Perlstein, a dedicated conversation volunteer in our immigration’s Conversation Partner Program, helps students improve their English skills through one-on-one practice. Janet Hernandez, the Westchester Coordinator for the Day Laborer Program, shares a common mission: to empower and uplift the lives of immigrants in their community. By supporting Catholic Charities NY, you can join them in this vital work and make a tangible difference.
Pat’s Journey: From Faith to Action
Pat’s involvement with Catholic Charities stems from her longstanding commitment to community service. Having previously worked in religious education in Westchester County, she naturally gravitated towards Catholic Charities NY, an organization that resonated with her values. Her journey as a conversation partner began with a simple yet profound desire to connect and help others.
“I was familiar with Catholic Charities from my work as a director for religious education. It was a natural fit for me,” Pat explains. Her role as a conversation partner allowed her to forge meaningful relationships, particularly with Janet, a fellow member of the Catholic Charities NY family. Through weekly conversations, Pat has helped Janet refine her English, prepare impactful speeches, and build confidence.
One of the most rewarding aspects of Pat’s volunteer work was witnessing Janet’s growth and achievements. “Watching Janet prepare for the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Yonkers Day Labor Center and seeing her pride in her team’s accomplishments was incredible,” Pat recalls. Janet’s success in obtaining the Elias Foundation Fellowship, with Pat’s unwavering support, further solidified their bond and highlighted the transformative power of mentorship and friendship.
Janet’s Story: From Census Worker to Community Leader
Janet’s journey with Catholic Charities began during her work on the 2010 Census, where she engaged with the Hispanic community in Yonkers. Her dedication to helping others led her to volunteer at the Casa Juan Diego soup kitchen, where she first encountered day laborers seeking work. Recognizing the need for greater support, Janet transitioned to a community organizer role at Catholic Charities NY.
Once Janet joined Catholic Charities, she was eager to improve her English to be more effective in her role. Through the International Center’s English as a Second Language (ESOL) program and her partnership with Pat, Janet not only enhanced her language skills but also developed a deeper connection to her community. Pat’s encouragement and belief in Janet’s abilities played a pivotal role in her personal and professional growth.”
As the Westchester Coordinator for the Day Laborer Program, Janet’s responsibilities are extensive. She oversees daily operations at the Yonkers Day Labor Center, coordinates various training programs, and ensures that day laborers are treated with dignity and respect. “My goal is to provide hope and support to the day laborers, helping them improve their lives,” Janet states passionately.
Janet’s vision extends beyond Yonkers. She aims to expand services to other corners of Westchester County, offering essential training and resources to more day laborers. Her focus on developing community leaders and fostering mutual respect within the center underscores her commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening the community.
A Blossoming Friendship
What started as a structured conversation partnership between Pat and Janet soon blossomed into a deep and meaningful friendship. Initially connected through Catholic Charities’ International Center ESOL program, their regular conversations helped Janet improve her English and gain confidence. However, their relationship quickly transcended the bounds of teacher and student.
“Pat is not just my teacher; she is my friend,” Janet emphasizes. “She believed in me and pushed me to achieve more than I ever thought possible.”
This bond was particularly evident when Janet prepared for the grand opening of the Yonkers Day Labor Center. Pat not only assisted with the speech but also provided emotional support.
Pat reflects on their friendship with warmth: “We’ve moved from formal lessons to sharing our lives with each other. We discuss everything from politics to personal experiences, and it’s been a truly rewarding journey for both of us.” Their conversations, filled with mutual respect and genuine care, have become a cornerstone of their weekly routines.
A Shared Mission: Community in Action
Both Pat and Janet exemplify the core values of Catholic Charities NY, transforming dedication into action through their committed service. Their story highlights the importance of support, mentorship, and the impact of compassionate, hands-on involvement. Pat’s ability to make complex tasks manageable and Janet’s relentless drive to uplift her community demonstrate the profound difference that committed individuals can make. Catholic Charities NY continues to adapt to the needs of immigrants by leveraging the power of dedicated volunteers and staff like Pat and Janet.
As Janet puts it: “We need to involve the community in our programs. By working together, we can find solutions and improve lives.”
Their journeys inspire us all to take action, to support one another, and to believe in the power of community. Through Catholic Charities, Pat and Janet have found their calling, creating a legacy of hope, resilience, and transformation. By supporting Catholic Charities NY, whether through volunteerism or donations, you too can be part of this impactful journey, helping to create a stronger, more compassionate community for all.
