The Catherine McAuley Center in Cedar Rapids is planning a series of events to celebrate its 35th anniversary this year.
The CMC officially marked its 35th anniversary in February.
The theme for the next fiscal year, which runs July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, is “35 Years of Community Connections.”
“As a Sister of Mercy it is with gratitude and pride that I celebrate 35 years of the Catherine McAuley Center,” Sister Shari Sutherland, who was present at the inception of the Catherine McAuley Center, said in a release. “Having outgrown the small wobbly building on stilts, to the former Immaculate Conception Convent, to the now beautiful building on Fifth Street, the ministry to women and men of the Cedar Rapids area is amazing. I am proud and grateful for all who partner with this important ministry of Mercy: Board members, committee members, employees, volunteers and donors. It has taken a very expanded village to keep this service responding to many of the needs of women, men and children.”
CMC’s anniversary campaign is intended to tell the stories of the last 35 years, engage current and past supporters and reach new supporters. Events planned for September 2024 include an open house to promote volunteerism, a refugee simulation as part of Welcoming Week, and a 35th anniversary celebration and gala.
As part of its anniversary celebration, the Catherine McAuley Center’s fundraising goals are centered around the number 35, with the ultimate fundraising goal for the year at $435,000. Beginning July 1, the opportunity will open for community members to help CMC reach its goal. The first 35 investors to donate $1,000 or more will be entered into a drawing to win two tickets to the 35th anniversary celebration and gala, a private tour of CMC’s main facility, and a gift bag.
“35 Years of Community Connections” will feature a series of events that will kick off during Welcoming Week Sept. 13-22.
The Catherine McAuley Center will open its doors for a free, public open house on Sunday, Sept. 15. The open house will include tours of the main facility, a panel discussion with active volunteers, and the unveiling of the newly-designed CMC Welcome Wings for photo opportunities.
On Tuesday, Sept. 17, a free, public refugee simulation will be held in the Hallagan Education Center at Mercy Medical Center. The simulation is an immersive experience designed to demonstrate the difficult process refugees face on their journey to the United States.
CMC will cap off Welcoming Week with a 35th anniversary celebration and gala Sept. 20 at 5:30 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton in downtown Cedar Rapids. The event will feature a reception, followed by dinner and a program highlighting the organization’s 35-year legacy.
Other opportunities to engage with CMC throughout the year will include Giving Tuesday on Dec. 3 and the third annual Immigration & Business Luncheon on March 6, 2025.
For more information, go to cmc-cr.org or contact Rachel Cohen at (319) 363-4993.
The Catherine McAuley Center is a nonprofit organization in Cedar Rapids that offers hope and opportunity through educational and supportive services that promote stability, skill-building, and connection. CMC serves refugees, immigrants and women recovering from trauma as they work toward self-sufficiency and greater community participation.
