Worker, Mother, Friend

Covenant House employee Mary Grace, has always known that she was meant to help others. Growing up, Mary’s mother, who was a missionary, taught her at an early age that selflessness was not only moral, but it was necessary for living a well-balanced life. As a child, Mary grew up in a big family, so it was only fitting that she would have a big family of her own. Mary has one biological child and seven adopted children. And while times have been hard, especially being a divorced single parent of eight, Mary never stops giving. With the guidance of her mother and her own bighearted nature, Mary lives her life making sure that someone else’s life is that much better.

Mary, who has a Masters in Social Work, came to CH 13 years ago and was one of the first employees here. Since being here, she has had a hand in every department such as Outreach, Coordinating and Social Work. Mary prides herself on being nonjudgmental and giving our youth here a chance. She sees herself as much more than just a Social Worker to the youth here, she looks at our youth as her family. Often times young individuals here come to Mary for advice on how to overcome obstacles, and she encourages them by saying “Go with the change… change is difficult, but know that it’s going to get better. Don’t go against the storm, go with it. Just keep moving forward.”

When asked where she sees herself in the future, Mary is positive that in 5, 10, or 15 years, she will still be a CH worker. As Mary puts it, “I want to know I’ve had a positive impact on others. I want to make a difference for as long as I can.” And being here at CH, Mary is fulfilling her life’s dream in leaving a positive stamp in the lives of others. While Mary spends a great deal of her time at CH and helping others, she enjoys life outside of work. In Mary’s spare time, she enjoys Salsa dancing, music, listening to live bands and getting together with friends.

Mary has chosen to live a life dedicated to helping others and we should all do our part in helping society. To help the youth here at Covenant House please donate now!