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Women’s Circle, Inc. Helping low-income women to learn skills and gain employment is one of hundreds of ways in which Medical Mission Sisters around the world try to be a healing presence to others today. Nearly 10 years ago, Medical Mission Sister Lorraine Ryan and Holy Cross Sister Joan Carusillo co-founded the Women’s Circle, Inc., program in Boynton Beach, Florida. The program’s mission statement is, “To empower women made poor to become all they can be, by assisting them to gain enhanced employment, becoming self-sufficient, and leaders in a culturally diverse community.” Educational classes, job preparation programs, support groups, a community garden, and over 20 dedicated volunteers are all part of the Women’s Circle. The classes include English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), basic and advanced literacy classes, computer training, and other skills development classes, all of which are supported by on-site childcare services. Job preparation programs include one-on-one counseling as needed, ranging from preparing a resume, job searching and dressing for an interview, job etiquette, transportation and childcare, as well as referrals into a network of community services. Monthly support groups unite women in open discussion and exploration of topics such as general health maintenance and nutrition, domestic violence prevention, mental health and parenting. In the collaborative community garden, neighbors of all ages and backgrounds grow nutritious fruits, vegetables and herbs. Sister Lorraine is a recipient of the Women's Peace Power Foundation Award, which honors women who help to empower other women. She says, “The diversity in ethnicity of the women who come to us is astounding! It is a rich mosaic of culture, language, and styles. When these women work together to bring about change for themselves, their families, and their community, it is truly awesome.” The Women’s Circle staff recently acquired a new duplex that will double its work space. On October 5, 2009, over 50 friends, clients, students, staff, board members, fundraiser committee members, and others joined Boynton Beach Mayor Jerry Taylor and his wife at the new property for a simple, prayerful ceremony. November 1, 2009
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