Since 2005, Mary Anne has been at the heart of the Quad Cities’ Child Society (CCS) chapter, guiding the organization’s mission to serve children and families in need. As one of the founding members, she has played a key role in shaping the chapter’s growth and success.
Mary Anne first learned about the Christ Child Society through an article in The Catholic Post in June 2005. Inspired by the organization’s mission, she helped form the Rock Island chapter just a few months later, in September 2005. Since then, she has served on the board for most of the chapter’s history and currently holds the position of chapter president.
“I am inspired to continue as long as there is a need (and I am able) because I believe in the organization's mission,” Mary Anne said.
As chapter president, Mary Anne creates agendas for the 10 monthly meetings each year, leads board and membership meetings, fills board vacancies with input from fellow members, and assists with key programs like the layette project, literacy initiatives, fundraising, and social events.
Working alongside other dedicated members is the most rewarding part of serving on the board for Mary Anne. “The most rewarding aspects are participating in good working relationships with other board members and providing great service to our community partners,” she said.
She advises anyone considering joining the Christ Child Society: “You can be a very active part of this organization if you have as little as two or three hours per month to spare. You can pick and choose which activities to participate in. I had a full-time job and five children at home when I first became involved, so my time was limited. My involvement has increased (and decreased) as my circumstances have changed. With a little time, you can make a big impact.”
Mary Anne’s passion for the Christ Child Society is rooted in her faith. “I think it's one of the things God wants me to do,” she said. “I am always happy when making layettes.”
One of her favorite events is the “Shower of Love,” where members and friends gather to donate baby items for the layette program. “One of our members, Barb, recently held a Shower of Love in her home. Thirty friends and members brought gifts for our layette program. We enjoyed a wonderful lunch and good company while raising funds for our ministry,” she shared.
The layette program holds a special place in Mary Anne’s heart. The gift packages for new mothers in need include diapers, a basic infant wardrobe, and essential care items.
Her involvement with CCS has strengthened her trust in God’s providence. “If He wants something done, He will provide the means,” she said.
Mary Anne hopes to see the chapter grow and expand its outreach. “I hope new leadership will be developed, the organization will grow, become more well known in the community, and provide greater service in partnership with additional community organizations,” she said.
An upcoming benefit production of Miss Nelson is Missing at Playcrafters is one of the events Mary Anne is incredibly excited about. “It should be a fun time and a great fundraiser,” she said.
Mary Anne credits her husband, Deacon Joe, with inspiring and supporting her service work. The couple, who have nine children and 26 grandchildren with number 27 due in August 2025, are members of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Rock Island.
Mary Anne enjoys attending classical music concerts with her husband outside of volunteering. A fun fact? CCS Treasurer Ruth Bloom was in Mary Anne’s high school graduating class at Marian Catholic, alongside Bishop Tylka, who attended a few years later.
“It’s a great organization with wonderful members,” Mary Anne said. “With love and faith, we can make a lasting difference.”
Mary Anne first learned about the Christ Child Society through an article in The Catholic Post in June 2005. Inspired by the organization’s mission, she helped form the Rock Island chapter just a few months later, in September 2005. Since then, she has served on the board for most of the chapter’s history and currently holds the position of chapter president.
“I am inspired to continue as long as there is a need (and I am able) because I believe in the organization's mission,” Mary Anne said.
As chapter president, Mary Anne creates agendas for the 10 monthly meetings each year, leads board and membership meetings, fills board vacancies with input from fellow members, and assists with key programs like the layette project, literacy initiatives, fundraising, and social events.
Working alongside other dedicated members is the most rewarding part of serving on the board for Mary Anne. “The most rewarding aspects are participating in good working relationships with other board members and providing great service to our community partners,” she said.
She advises anyone considering joining the Christ Child Society: “You can be a very active part of this organization if you have as little as two or three hours per month to spare. You can pick and choose which activities to participate in. I had a full-time job and five children at home when I first became involved, so my time was limited. My involvement has increased (and decreased) as my circumstances have changed. With a little time, you can make a big impact.”
Mary Anne’s passion for the Christ Child Society is rooted in her faith. “I think it's one of the things God wants me to do,” she said. “I am always happy when making layettes.”
One of her favorite events is the “Shower of Love,” where members and friends gather to donate baby items for the layette program. “One of our members, Barb, recently held a Shower of Love in her home. Thirty friends and members brought gifts for our layette program. We enjoyed a wonderful lunch and good company while raising funds for our ministry,” she shared.
The layette program holds a special place in Mary Anne’s heart. The gift packages for new mothers in need include diapers, a basic infant wardrobe, and essential care items.
Her involvement with CCS has strengthened her trust in God’s providence. “If He wants something done, He will provide the means,” she said.
Mary Anne hopes to see the chapter grow and expand its outreach. “I hope new leadership will be developed, the organization will grow, become more well known in the community, and provide greater service in partnership with additional community organizations,” she said.
An upcoming benefit production of Miss Nelson is Missing at Playcrafters is one of the events Mary Anne is incredibly excited about. “It should be a fun time and a great fundraiser,” she said.
Mary Anne credits her husband, Deacon Joe, with inspiring and supporting her service work. The couple, who have nine children and 26 grandchildren with number 27 due in August 2025, are members of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Rock Island.
Mary Anne enjoys attending classical music concerts with her husband outside of volunteering. A fun fact? CCS Treasurer Ruth Bloom was in Mary Anne’s high school graduating class at Marian Catholic, alongside Bishop Tylka, who attended a few years later.
“It’s a great organization with wonderful members,” Mary Anne said. “With love and faith, we can make a lasting difference.”