Inside Look! In interview with the Catholic Standard, Sister Nancy Downing reflects on her first year leading St. Ann's Center.

The latest monthly note from Sister Nancy Downing, CEO: "Pregnancy can be a scary time, especially when you are still in high school. This is why I am so grateful to you, for providing the nurturing environment where Kayla can find warmth and support during this important season of her life."

The latest monthly note from Sister Nancy Downing, CEO: "Let me begin this note by saying thank you! One year ago this month, you and the St. Ann’s Center community welcomed me into the role of CEO. As I reflect on the past twelve months, I stand in awe of your overwhelming generosity on behalf of the families we serve."

The latest note from Sister Nancy Downing, CEO: "Most importantly, you've helped provide the gift of hope for the year ahead. Each woman at St. Ann's has her own goals and hopes for 2025. And thanks to you, each woman will be supported in pursuing her goals."

The latest monthly note from Sister Nancy Downing, CEO: "I want to take one moment to thank you for donating, volunteering, and engaging with St. Ann's Center for Children, Youth and Families this year. You give our community so many reasons to be thankful!"

The latest monthly note from Sister Nancy Downing, CEO: "One of the gifts of being part of St. Ann's Center's mission is getting to see all the moments that make up a family's journey: the tender beginnings, and the joyful returns."

"This month I had the chance to attend the annual cookout for St. Ann’s families hosted by the Blue Knights (MD 1 chapter). A “non-profit fraternal organization consisting of active and retired law enforcement men and women who enjoy riding motorcycles,” the Blue Knights are familiar and beloved to staff, supporters, and alumna of St. Ann’s programs. "And after attending this cookout, I understand why!"

"We feel immense thankfulness for you and others who help ensure that children at St. Ann’s Center have... not just fundamental shelter and security, but also the loving, caring support of our staff, who help mom and her children heal together from the disruptive effects of housing instability."

Mom gently knelt down beside her little one, helped collect her things, and placed a loving arm around her shoulder. “How was your day?” Mom said. “Tell me about that artwork you made.”

Just last week one young mother and her brave-faced toddler daughter arrived at St. Ann’s with a family member who brought them to us. It was Move-In Day, and this mother-and-daughter pair had arrived to begin their St. Ann’s journey to a brighter future...