LaJean Ray

Director, Fatima Family Center

Director LaJean Ray has been with the Fatima Family Center for almost 36 years. Below, you can find what her experience has been like with Catholic Charities.

What a day’s work looks like:

The days at Fatima are so diverse. While you plan some things, you are often presented with situations, challenges, interactions that supersede your calendar. Our Center has a high level of energy, today [Tuesday] is pantry day. Our normal youth volunteers from the ROTC program at East High School are on spring break. Our secretary will prepare meals for the seniors, the teens from our afterschool program have been enlisted to manage the drive-through pantry, and our youth staff will manage the satisfaction surveys. I will take care of the phones at the front desk while completing the field trip schedule for 50 seniors for our “Seniors on the Move” program. The Family to Family staff will pack grocery bags and distribute them, as well as coordinate their family visitation schedule. So our motto is “on any given day, be prepared to assume a new and challenging job to meet the needs of our community”.

Favorite thing about your job:

My favorite thing about my job is I am always learning something new. I have an amazing opportunity to interact with people who humble me with their stories, experiences, and acts of generosity. From our participants, our staff, and our young people, I keep my feet on the ground and my heart pumping with joy. This place is a gift to so many.

Greatest Accomplishments:

Watching the Center thrive from a blue Quanset Hut to a beautiful center has been a journey. The opportunity to witness the transition of our young people into accomplished professionals is so gratifying. We recently were visited by a young man who grew up at Fatima; he was a typical teen with some rebel tendencies. Brandon is leaving the United States Air Force in May and establishing two Bed and Breakfasts in Texas. One of our young ladies just signed a lease on Euclid Avenue to open a Vegan restaurant. We have nurses, social workers, educators, and business owners. Our seniors are always sharing with us our impact on their lives. It is often emotional and affirming to know that we are making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Lastly, when the young people come back and enroll their children in our programs, it reminds us of the responsibility we have to ensure the legacy of trust continues.

Thank you, LaJean, for your dedication and support of the missions of Catholic Charities. You are indeed an asset to Catholic Charities and the Hough community.