New director hits targets at Circles

After just four months on the job, Richard Zazycki, the new director of Circles of Mercy in Rensselaer, has already put some of his goals into place.

That's something he really didn't expect to do until he settled into his position at the community-service agency.

"Things just sort of happened" that enabled him to get a jump-start on his work, he said.

New role

After the previous director, Sister Kathleen Pritty, RSM, left earlier this year to become justice coordinator for the Albany Regional Community of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, Circles of Mercy was looking for new leadership.

The agency, sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, is a center for those in need, particularly women and children. It provides numerous services, including support groups, parenting skills education, computer training, self-enhancement workshops and job-seeking skills.

When he accepted the role, Mr. Zazycki was put in charge of a staff of just one part-time assistant and about 75 volunteers.

Filling a need

"Most of our clients are young women, aged 18-25, who have found themselves pregnant," Mr. Zazycki explained. "They are high school drop-outs who have shouldered the responsibility of single parenting. [They] need many services to help them get on their feet and make ends meet."

His first concern is to see the agency become more visible to the community in order to increase its outreach.

"Lots of people around here have never heard of us or the services we provide," he noted. "I see my job right now as spreading the word -- letting people know we're here, showing them what we're doing."

Helping out

Anyone in Rensselaer County can go to Circles of Mercy for help. "Our clients come to us either by word of mouth or referrals," Mr. Zazycki said.

Circles of Mercy works with clients on household issues and helps them prepare their taxes. "We also will help them file applications for Medicaid and health insurance," Mr. Zazycki added.

Other services provided by Circles of Mercy include child supervision while parents receive services, transportation to services and grant research.

In addition, 25 volunteers staff Catherine's Closet and Baby Closet, which offer gently used clothing for women returning to the work force, and new baby bottles, diapers, clothing and blankets for infants. 

Adopt a family

Around the Christmas holidays, the agency offers Adopt-A-Family so that groups can help a family receive donations of food and gifts.

"Last year, we had 15 families sign up as recipients," Mr. Zazycki said. "This year, there are 42 families already enrolled. The need for support is increasing."

As he looks ahead, the director said, "One of my dreams has been to get some of our young moms into a G.E.D. program so they would be able to earn their high school diploma. I'm very encouraged for their future."

(Richard Zazycki, a native of Albany, is a member of Our Lady of Assumption parish in Rotterdam, where he is a member the pastoral council. For additional information on Circles of Mercy, call 462-0899.)

(11/30/06) [[In-content Ad]]