At St. Francis de Sales, we see it every day: community changes everything. When students feel supported, cared for, and truly seen, they grow in ways that touch the whole community.
Veronica’s story is one of many that shows how powerful that support can be, so I’ll let her tell it in her own words.
Meet Veronica.
"When I first came to St. Francis de Sales last year, I felt nervous and a little lost. Earlier that year, I had lost both of my parents and moved in with my half-brother. Everything in my life felt like it had changed overnight. I wasn’t sure if I’d fit in or if people would understand what I’d been through.
My teachers and principal believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. One teacher checked in after every hard day and pushed me to join clubs and stay connected. Slowly, I started to find people who cared—friends who sat with me at lunch, staff who made school feel safe. It didn’t happen all at once, but it started to feel like I had a home again.
Serving others at the food pantry has made me realize that giving feels a lot like healing. When I help a family carry groceries or talk to a parent picking up food, I see my own story reflected back—the struggle, the hope, the gratitude. It reminds me that we all need support sometimes, and helping others gives me purpose.
There was one woman who hugged me and said, “You don’t know how much this helps.” That moment stuck with me—and made me feel like I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be.
There are days when things still feel hard, but now I remind myself that I’ve already survived the hardest parts of my life. When I feel sad, I talk to my friends or our counselor, and I focus on the people who love me and remember how far I’ve come. I’ve learned that healing isn’t a straight line, but I’m still moving forward.
What you’re doing really changes lives—including mine. You might not see it every day, but the food pantry, the after-school clubs, the teachers, and our principal make a difference for students like me who are trying to rebuild. You’ve helped turn my pain into purpose, and I’m so thankful.
My dream for the future is to become a counselor or social worker. I want to help other kids who’ve been through loss or trauma know they aren’t alone. I want them to feel seen and supported the way I’ve been here. I think my parents would be proud of that—turning what I’ve lived through into something that helps others.
This school has taught me that community really does change everything. Mine is one of many stories—some heavier than you’d ever guess by looking at us. What makes St. Francis de Sales special is that it’s a place where those stories are met with love and hope. I’m proof that even after loss, you can find your way again—especially when you’re surrounded by a community that believes in you."
—Veronica, Class of 2028
At St. Francis de Sales, Veronica’s story is just one of many. Each of our students faces challenges that test them in ways we may never see. But every day, we watch them grow, heal, and thrive with the support of our community. If you’d like to hear more about the incredible students we serve, I’d be happy to share their stories—feel free to call or text me directly at 312-802-1765.
You can support students like Veronica today here.
Your support makes these transformations possible. By giving to St. Francis de Sales, you not only provide intellectual, emotional, and spiritual guidance to our students—you strengthen a community that heals, uplifts, and empowers.
Your generosity also reaches far beyond our walls. From community blood drives to the only student-run community food bank in the country, to our upcoming Christmas party providing meals, presents, and hope for hundreds of families facing hardship this holiday season—your partnership changes lives that go on to change others.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Dr. Roni Facen
Your proud and grateful Pioneer
P.S. Veronica told me, “Family isn’t only the people you’re born into; sometimes it’s the people who show up for you every single day.” Thank you for continuing to show up for Veronica and all of our students through your contribution