Sisters of Providence General Council announces new initiative

We are writing to let you know about a new initiative for the Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.

Early last spring, the Sisters of Providence applied for, and received, a grant from the National Religious Retirement Office (NRRO). The monies are to be applied to planning that will maximize the revenue and facilities available for the care of all elder members of the Congregation now and into the future.

The grant will provide the Congregation with funds to engage in a study of the Sisters of Providence-owned buildings and property at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. The study will include market analysis of the value and possible alternative uses of all properties and buildings here at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, as well as properties along St. Mary’s Road and in St. Mary’s Village. Very simply, the goal of the study is to identify ways to increase revenue and/or decrease expenses so that we may better provide for the Congregation’s members and mission.

Of the three firms we interviewed, we selected Hoffman and Associates from Appleton, Wis. Their experience with other religious communities and their interest in our proposal were significant factors in our choice. Members of the Hoffman team include persons with expertise in health care, finances, market research, community needs assessment and real estate assessment, so we feel confident that they will help us determine the most appropriate future use of our holdings. The firm has already started to work with our local planning committee to assist in gathering and organizing information. As the process continues, Hoffman and Associates will provide guidance and recommendations and help us make informed decisions about our land and buildings.

The timeline for this study is fairly rigorous, and the firm expects to present their findings within a year. At that time, we will be able to apply for an implementation grant from the NRRO so that we can act on the recommendations that are most promising and most consistent with our values. We are very hopeful that our efforts with Hoffman and Associates will enable us to provide appropriate care for our members and will enable us to continue the mission of the Congregation.

We are fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Hoffman and Associates and we look forward to sharing the outcomes of this important work with you.

Thank you for your continued support of the life and mission of the Sisters of Providence.

In Providence,

Denise Wilkinson, SP, General Superior,
Lisa Stallings, SP, Vicar,
Dawn Tomaszewski, SP, General Councilor
Jeneen Howard, SP, General Councilor,
Mary Beth Klingel, SP, General Councilor.