Benedictine staff and the children and adults supported by our organization experienced a year of growth, accomplishments, and recognition. Here is a recap of our achievements.
Both Governor Moore and Lt. Governor Miller visited the Benedictine Campus in Ridgely.Each met with school and adult services staff, students in class, and were shown the plans for the new school residential wing.
Through the amazing efforts of our school staff, Benedictine received accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES); one of only 22 schools nationwide to receive it. This is the second time Benedictine has received this.
Benedictine was awarded the What’s Up? Media Best of Eastern Shore Nonprofit and was a top 3 finalist in the APG Media Best of the Best Chesapeake Nonprofit.
Eight students graduated from the school in Ridgely.
The Adult Day Programs provided services for 94 Benedictine supported adults and day-only adults. Of those, 25 received employment training and job opportunities.
The Community Services and Training Center in Easton conducted classes for students in retail, hospitality, self-advocacy and work readiness along with resume writing and other job development skills. Students are referred to Benedictine by the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS), an agency of the Maryland State Department of Education, which provides support in promoting the employment, economic self-sufficiency and independence of individuals with disabilities.
School students interacted with science experiments during a visit by the Science Guy at the Ridgely Campus.
Adult clients attended weekly Bocce Ball games at the Easton YMCA.
Our dedicated staff received two bonuses. Salaried staff received a 3.75% increase and hourly wage earners received a $1.00 increase. Hiring was robust and focused on fulltime positions which made up 85% of the 119 new hires.
50 employees, ranging from 5 years to 55 years of service, were celebrated during a Milestone Anniversary luncheon.
The Sister Jeannette Award winner was presented toSharon Walbert, Adult Services House Counselor, who has been with Benedictine for 22 years. Nominees are selected by fellow staff members and exemplify Benedictine’s mission and values.
The Cornerstone Award, which reflects steadfast commitment and remarkable generosity to Benedictine, was given to Spud Blake, a supporter of Benedictine for 20 years and founder of the Chrome City Fundraiser.
The first Heart of Benedictine award was given posthumously to Beth Mathis, who served as the Adult Services Director, and was a passionate advocate for those with developmental disabilities. The awardee embodies the qualities of love and dedication of service that Sister Mary Agnes demonstrated. Selected by the Executive Director, the recipient can be a staff member, volunteer, parent, donor or community member.
The School Campus Loop Road, funded by a Community Development Block Grant, was completed and also includes a walking path and lighting.
Benedictine was a recipient of a Maryland Capital Grant from Governor Moore’s FY’24 budget for a new school residential facility; two Maryland Legislature Bond Bills; a Maryland Affordable Housing Trust grant; a USDA Community Facilities grant; a Women’s and Girls Fund grant; along with a number other grants to support group home and campus repairs, literacy efforts and more.
Foundation events – Spring Gala, Chrome City Ride, DC area golf tournament, Birdies For Benedictine Golf Tournament, and Blueberry Boogie raised over $365,000.
Over $100,000 was raised on Giving Tuesday which included a generous match from a grandparent.
