DRCC receives $142K grant from Cabrini Foundation

The Dominican Retreat and Conference Center (DRCC) in Niskayuna received a $142,000 grant from the Mother Cabrini Foundation last month. 
The grant will help launch the facility’s latest projects: Spiritual Sanctuary for Seniors, Persons With Disabilities, and 12 Step Group Members. The funding will enable retreat staff to “more effectively meet the spiritual needs of a growing population of elders and persons living with disabilities.”
The DRCC, which offers retreats, workshops and presentations to help attendees enhance their spiritual life, has been a place of “healing and hope” for women and men since 1945. Sister Sue Zemgulis, Administrator of the Retreat Center, said in a press release that the retreat’s newest projects were starting at a critical time.

“The launch of our Spiritual Sanctuary has arrived at just the right time when those among us at highest risk of coronavirus need a safe shelter that will protect and soothe the soul and strengthen one’s faith.” 

Zemgulis added that, “offering our people Spiritual Sanctuary in a group setting, whether virtual or onsite, will strengthen their sense of community, deepen their faith and enrich their relationship with God.”

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is a private, nonprofit organization with the mission to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of targeted communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services. The Foundation — which is named in memory of a tireless advocate for immigrants, children and the poor — provides flexible support for new and innovative approaches that enhance health and wellness across New York State.

The Retreat Center says that with the additional funding they will “be better equipped to help retreatants feel more comfortable and improve their program participation.” The DRCC is now planning a schedule for retreats, prayer services and faith formation events, as well as working on improving their audio system and handicap access, and adding equipment for virtual events and recliners in their bathrooms.

For those in need, the center offers scholarships and transportation funding for anyone with limited means. For more information, please call (518) 393-4169, email [email protected] or visit the website www.dslcny.org.