We are very excited to launch two new programs this winter/spring. Since the fall, Matt Whalen, the MKC’s Capuchin volunteer, has been working to bring a community garden to the Center. Matt has been collaborating with Rev. Linda Wygant of Grace Seeds Ministry on plans for a garden that will help us serve the local neighborhoods. Matt won a grant through the Captain Planet Foundation to underwrite some of the costs and has been collecting donations of garden tools and supplies. Within a few weeks, the first workshops will take place to teach Catalyst scholars gardening basics. Once the weather allows, construction on the garden will begin!
The second new program is also being led by Matt. He is teaching a group of seventh graders about bicycle maintenance and safety. Participants are working to repair bikes that have been donated to the Center and
acquiring skills that will benefit them for years to come.
In the first session, the boys learned about different kinds of brakes on bikes and how to repair a flat tire.
The Maria Kaupas Center Board of Directors and staff members believe that it is very important to
recognize our partners. Recently we had the opportunity to thank one of our largest partners,
Catalyst Maria School, by inviting them to a chili lunch in the Center. MKC Board President, Brother Mike Fehrenbach, FSC, made a HUGE batch of his world-famous chili as well as a gluten-free, vegetarian dish to share with Catalyst teachers, staff, and administrators.
We wanted our colleagues across the hall to know that we appreciate all they do.
We admire their dedication and respect the importance of their work.
We are proud to partner with them.
