Our Pearl of Hope for 2025 Each year, at the Annual Victorian Tea, Sojourner House presents the Pearl of Hope award to an individual or organization that has played a significant role in furthering our mission of providing compassionate, faith-based support to mothers and children in recovery. Past honorees have included dedicated advocates, community leaders, and organizations committed to empowering families affected by addiction. Honoring Nishauna This year, Sojourner House is proud to honor Nishauna Leigh Ball. Her journey from a child in the program to a leader in the field of social work exemplifies the hope that Sojourner House provides. At just four years old, Nishauna Leigh Ball arrived at Sojourner House with her mother. Together they sought stability amid a life … [Read more...] about A Full-Circle Journey of Hope and Healing
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Sojourner House is thrilled to announce Dr. Camille Clarke-Smith as the Honorary Chair of the 21st annual Victorian Tea, taking place on April 27, 2025, at the Wyndham Grand Hotel in Pittsburgh. A respected leader in health and wellness, Dr. Clarke-Smith embodies the mission and values that Sojourner House upholds: empowering individuals and families to rebuild their lives through compassion, resilience, and community-centered care. A Legacy of Empowerment and Advocacy Dr. Clarke-Smith brings a wealth of expertise and a deep commitment to uplifting underserved communities. As the Program Director in the Quality Improvement Department at UPMC Health Plan, she leads the Medicare Faith and Wellness Program, a groundbreaking initiative addressing health equity by engaging faith-based … [Read more...] about 21st Annual Victorian Tea Honorary Chair Named
Meet Our New Director of Human Resources at Sojourner House At Sojourner House, we are thrilled to welcome Gretchen Howard as our new Director of Human Resources. Gretchen brings a wealth of experience, a passion for supporting individuals and communities, and a dedication to advancing Sojourner House’s mission to support mothers, children and families in recovery. Here’s a chance to get to know her better: Professional Background What drew you to Sojourner House? Gretchen was inspired by Sojourner House’s deep commitment to providing holistic support, particularly for individuals affected by domestic violence. “The organization’s values, its emphasis on community empowerment, and its focus on making a meaningful difference aligned perfectly with … [Read more...] about Welcome Gretchen Howard!
Support Sojourner House during Give Big Pittsburgh on Tuesday, December 3 Now, more than ever, we invite you to consider the impact of your support on families who rely on Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS in Pittsburgh. With your help, these families can find safe space for recovery and also the tools to build brighter futures together. Today, we’re sharing the story of one resilient mother, who—thanks to supporters like you—found her strength, healing, and self-worth through Sojourner House. Ashley, pictured on the far right during a recent workshop at Sojourner House MOMS, recalls the moment she learned about Sojourner House with fondness. “My CYS worker believed in me and said, ‘I have this place for you called Sojourner House in Pittsburgh.’ It was as if a … [Read more...] about Now More Than Ever: A Story of Hope and Resilience
On a beautiful day in Homewood, the streets came alive with the energy of wellness, community, and fun as families gathered for the annual Yoga in the Streets event. This special day celebrated physical and mental well-being while fostering community connections through education, entertainment, and shared resources. Positive Coping with Yoga Instructors Ursula Howard and Dr. Camille Clarke Smith led two sessions of yoga in the morning and afternoon. Community members took time to move their bodies during each of the sessions. They also enjoyed some moments of mindfulness during the busy day. Subsequently, they learned how yoga can be beneficial for coping with the stressors and triggers of everyday life. Educational Fun for All One of the day's highlights was the Science Bus, … [Read more...] about Yoga in the Streets: A Day of Wellness, Education, and Fun
Celebrating Community and Connection in Recovery At Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS, community and sisterhood are everything. These values shone brightly at our recent Sista to Sista Picnic. Mothers and children came together to celebrate their recovery journeys, build connections, and strengthen the bonds that help them heal. A Day of Joy, Connection, and Empowerment On a warm summer day, our families gathered for an afternoon of fun, relaxation, and connection. The Sista-to-Sista Picnic was more than just a casual event; it celebrated the strength, resilience, and unity that drives recovery. Children enjoyed frozen T-shirts, water balloons and playful games. Meanwhile, mothers engaged in group activities and shared heartfelt conversations. The air was filled with … [Read more...] about Sista to Sista Picnic: A Sojourner House Tradition