The Dakota Center was founded by a Society of Mary priest, Fr. Hoelle. Qualities that mark this society are mercy, compassion, availability, welcome and hospitality. These qualities guide the Center’s staff in the work we do each and every day. Each January, I take some time to reflect on my position as Executive Director.
I reflect on the numerous times where we have shown mercy to each other and to our community members. When I watch the staff go about their work, their compassion is often leading the way. The Center has been used non-stop for the past 631 days (04/18/21) and you can’t be any more available than that! Our welcome and hospitality are legendary, and we continuously work to keep our hearts and arms wide open. In so doing, we surpassed our county contracts for the after-school program by 156% and our senior program by 161%.
No is not a word that is too often spoken around here. We are proud to be a good neighbor and have a positive impact in people’s lives, including our own. I am so looking forward to this year and the wonderful things that are going to happen! May 2023 be a year of peace, prosperity, health, and joy.
