The connection Sacramento has to the Mercy community has been nothing short of amazing. From the very beginning, I felt embraced by a support system that deeply understands the challenges of a year of service and is prepared to help at any moment. Through their kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to service, our community has truly felt the powerful legacy of the Sisters of Mercy and the alumni network.

One of the standout aspects of this experience has been the incredible support provided by our team, which includes Dorothy, Sister Libby, and Sister Bridget. All three are deeply connected to the Sisters of Mercy and the Loaves and Fishes service site, and their involvement has been essential to making our year as fulfilling as it has been. They check in on us regularly, making sure everything is running smoothly with our house and offering a kind word whenever we need it. It’s more than just logistics – it’s about building meaningful relationships. They celebrate our birthdays, host spirituality nights, and organize monthly check-ins over dinner, where we can come together and reflect on our experiences. Their presence isn’t just a source of comfort, it’s a reminder that we’re part of something much larger than ourselves. They beautifully embody the values of mercy, compassion, and service, which are at the core of everything we do.

In addition to the support from our team, the alumni of MVC have been instrumental in making Sacramento feel like home. From the moment we arrived, this group of alumni took us under their wings, sending us letters and food. They’ve taken us out to eat at amazing restaurants, introduced us to local gems, invited us to theatrical productions, and shown us the best places to visit. Beyond the fun outings and tours, what really stands out is how the understanding they have shown us as they have been in our shoes and know exactly what it’s like to face the challenges of this year. This year has had its ups and downs. There are moments of emotional struggle, long days at work, and occasional uncertainty about the road ahead but the alumni have been there for us every step of the way. They use everything in their power to ease the hardships that come with our work and provide us with the emotional support we need to keep going. Shoutout Hannah, Emma, and Shawna! 

One of the most powerful things about connecting with the Sisters of Mercy and MVC alumni is the shared understanding of the community we are serving. They know firsthand the challenges, the triumphs, and the everyday moments that make this experience so meaningful. Their generosity is not just about what they give, it’s about how they show up for us when we need it most. Looking back on everything, I can say without hesitation that the support we’ve received from Dorothy, Sister Libby, Sister Bridget, and the MVC alumni has made all the difference. It’s rare to find a community so invested in your well-being and success, and we feel incredibly fortunate to have them by our side!

Kelly Peknic: Sacramento, California