St. Coletta of Wisconsin celebrates 100 years of believing in people

St. Coletta centennial celebration September 10, 2004 marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of St. Coletta of Wisconsin. This is the first in a monthly series commemorating the advocacy and advancements the organization has made and continues to make in the field of working with persons who are developmentally disabled. View a calendar of centennial events at www.stcolettawi.org St. Coletta mission statement "Inspired by the Franciscan Values of caring and respect, together we guide individuals with developmental and other challenges to achieve their highest quality of life, personal growth and spiritual awareness."

JEFFERSON -- In 1904, providing routine custodial care for persons with developmental disabilities - or rather for persons often referred to as "slow" or "backward" - was the prevailing service model of the day.

Disability was a mystery to both the general public and to the medical profession. The philosophy of the time was that people with disabilities could not learn or have productive lives and that they needed to be hidden away from society.

Seeking Catholic school

It was against this backdrop that the family of a girl who was mentally retarded found themselves looking for a Catholic school that could provide for the unique needs of their daughter.

At the time there were a few state institutions but nothing that provided a faith-based educational environment focused on achievement.

They approached a priest with their predicament. He consulted with the Sisters of St. Francis of Assisi of Milwaukee, who were known for their educational initiatives.   Full story ...

Campus missionaries:
Aim to build leaders
for Catholic Church

By Julianne Nornberg
CATHOLIC HERALD STAFF

MADISON -- Two by two they come - from as far west as New Mexico and as far east as New Jersey.

As recent college graduates themselves, they come to college campuses to establish a Catholic presence there or to work with the existing campus ministry.

They go where they are needed, with one goal in mind: to build leaders for the Catholic Church.   Full story ...