Eileen Chanen
Creative Services
Minneapolis
 Part of the mission statement of the church Eileen Chanen
attends is from the Old Testament book of Jeremiah: “Seek
the well-being of the city to which I have sent you. Pray for
it to the Lord. For in seeking its well-being, you shall find
your own.”
Eileen has adopted that verse as a guide to her life, a life
she willingly shares to help people who are less fortunate.
For the past six years, she has volunteered at the Jeremiah
Program, a broad-based community initiative that helps low-income
single mothers and their children complete their education,
build self-esteem and become self-sufficient.
Of her many roles there, Eileen’s favorite is teaching
weekly Lifeskills classes. Her efforts have played a part in
transforming broken lives into whole, fulfilling ones. An example
is a woman she met in the program three years ago.
“She was typical of many of the women who enter the
program,” Eileen said. “She had been in an abusive
relationship, was deeply in debt, immature and had little family
support.”
Recently, Eileen devoted much time coaching her on job-search
and interview skills. After finally getting an interview with
a local employer, she contacted Eileen. “I got the job!” she
said. “Thank you for all of the confidence you have in
me. When someone believes in you, you start believing in yourself.”
Since 2001, Eileen also has served on the marketing committee
at the YWCA of Minneapolis, sharing communications skills and
helping with fund-raisers.
She also volunteers with Common Hope, an organization that
partners with children, families and communities in Guatemala
to improve their standard of living. She served on work teams
there and coordinates local fund-raisers.
Each week, Eileen spends time helping residents of Texas Terrace
Care Center and volunteering at her church, the Basilica of
St. Mary.
“I think we are our brothers’ keepers,” said
Eileen. “Jesus challenges us to take care of each
other. It’s as simple as that. I’m proud to work
for an organization whose mission reflects that same calling
to care for others.” |