Monthly Damien Center Update

Effective July 16, 2021

Masks will be required for anyone entering or interacting on the first floor in any public-facing space when not behind a barrier. Masks will be provided for those who do not have one readily available.

New Programming Update

Building A Future is back!

Our Building A Future classes are a series of free classes designed to teach essential life skills and include a wide range of topics from goal setting and legal rights to housing resources and nutrition. These classes are free and available to all clients of Damien Center and other local-area ASOs, however, clients receiving housing support are required to attend.

Check out the new event's calendar to see all upcoming sessions!

New Staff Member

Diana Owens, Family Support Specialist

Meet Diana Owens, Damien Center's new Family Support Specialist. Not only is Diana new to this role, but this is a new role to Damien Center altogether. Diana will work to bring family services to Damien Clients and community members that access Damien Center services. This role will provide greater support to our community in ways that we have never done before.

Q: What is your role at Damien Center?
A: I will be working with the Client and Enrichment Manager to develop and offer new opportunities, experiences, education, and resources that strengthen the whole family.

Q: Prior to your time at Damien Center, what did you do?
A: Prior to the Damien Center, I worked with military families and foster youth in Indiana.

Q: What are you most looking forward to in your role at Damien Center?
A: I’m most looking forward to engaging with the clients and building a program that is sustainable for the community.

Q: What are some of the things that you are hoping to see happen with family involvement at Damien Center?
A: I'm hoping to see family involvement increase. I want families to feel that the Damien Center is a safe place for them as well.

Q: What song would be the soundtrack to your life and why?
A: Keep Ya Head Up by 2Pac because my life has been full of adversity and this song is an affirmation to not give up. No matter your struggles or lack of support, the song motivates your to do your best and keep pushing through.

If you see Diana around the building, make sure to welcome her to the Damien Team. We are excited to see how she builds and brings more inclusivity to Damien Center clients and the community. Welcome, Diana!

Client Activities

Client Advisory Board

Client Advisory Board has returned to in-person meetings. The meetings will be held in the board room atthe Damien Center from 3–4p. Client Advisory Board is a space for clients to come and use their voice for the happenings in Damien. Clients who attend will receive a Kroger gift card for attending. Clients who wish to participate in Client Advisory Board can reach out to Annie Nelson.

Client Enrichment

Along with family services, Damien Center has introduced a new Client Enrichment department. The Client Enrichment team is overseen by Client and Family Enrichment Manager, Annie Nelson and includes the Family Support Specialist, Diana Owens, MSW, and Employment Specialist, Kennedy Buyer. The department hopes to bring more client programming to Damien Center to help clients with overcoming barriers and becoming more sustainable.

Client Appreciation Picnic

August 25, 2021

The annual client appreciation picnic will be held on August 25th at the Garfield Park Pagoda from 1:00 - 4:00 pm. There will be food, games, music, and activities for all ages. Clients are invited to bring their partners and families to the event. Please sign up with your care team or contact Annie Nelson if you are interested in joining the fun!

Clients who are interested in joining in on the fun can sign up with their Care Coordinator or contact Annie Nelson.