On Thursday, April 23, 2026, Keeler Women’s Center held its yearly Volunteer Recognition Celebration at the Shawnee Town 1929 Museum in Shawnee, KS.
Over fifty volunteers were celebrated in person by Director S. Bridget Dickason, OSB, who made a special recognition to two retiring volunteers.
Yolanda McGill, who had served as a receptionist on Thursday mornings since 2022.
Yolanda was the door prize winner for the Spring Roll making class in 2024
S. Mary Agnes Patterson, OSB, who just retired as Development Director from Mount St. Scholastica, and who had worked to secure funds for Keeler since 2005.
S. Mary Agnes is being recognized by S. Bridget for her years of service.
Keeler Women’s Center strives to maintain all programming relevant to what is happening in the community and offer assistance in gap services. Thanks to the community and professional volunteers, they offer a variety of programs and services to women and men.
Over 80 volunteers were coordinated and recruited by our four staff members to provide over 10,623 services, including $32,551.29 in homeless prevention and other financial assistance in 2025.
visit our facebook video to see more of our volunteers at work in 2025.
Staff and advisory boardS. Bridget Dickason, OSB, director of KeelerS. Bridget recognizing Yolanda McGillWelcome to the Advisory Board, Connee Hays!Silvia Byer, PhD, LMSW, is our Director of Counseling Services is working the celebration’s coffee bar.Oblate volunteer Judy KennedyKnitting and Crocheting leader and Thursday Morning receptionist volunteer, E.J., is trying her commemorative shot glassVolunteers Regina Thornton and Elizabeth Garcia help Associate Director Brenda Mortell at registration.Advisory Board members Chiquita Miller and Eugenia De La Rosa are distributing commemorative shot glasses to all guests.Professional volunteer and leader of Understanding Medicare, Susana Marcos, greets fellow Argentinian Dr. Byer.Sisters Suzanne (pink) and Bridget (floral) take time to visit during the festivities.Brenda Mortell with volunteers Irene and DeniseSisters Maria and Patricia at the coffee stationVolunteer Jeanette Dixon and guest Mary at the gift tableS. Mary Agnes finally won a door prize!!Volunteers Yolanda, Tonya, and S. Mary Agnes are selecting their gifts.Oblate and volunteer Steve Bruns is taking time to see all options.Guest S. Rocio and Jared are selecting a door prize.Connee Hays helping Oblate volunteers Deb and Regina select just the perfect gift.Oblates and Keeler volunteers Regina Thornton (left) and Deb Carmody (right).Jeanette Bruns, Easy English tutoring volunteer.Denise Schieber, volunteer receptionist on Wednesday mornings.S. Oahn (in plaid) helping guests at the gift table.Volunteers Dr. Chiquita Miller and Veronica WilliamsS. Maria (in white) door prize winner!S. Oahn and Oblate volunteer Pat Callaghan.
Thank you all for your support and love for our ministry!
