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
Victorian Tea
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
As our fiscal year comes to an end, it's the perfect time to reflect on the inspiring stories and events that have shaped our journey. From community-driven campaigns to heartfelt events, each initiative has brought us closer to our mission: helping mothers, children, and families facing substance use disorder and homelessness find a brighter future. Here are some of the highlights from this memorable year. Giving Tuesday Impact Campaign Stories Our Giving Tuesday Impact Campaign was a tremendous success, thanks to the unwavering support of our community. The inspiring stories we shared showcased the strength, empathy, and hope mothers and their children find at Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. For Vanessa, Sam, and Nishauna, our programs have been … [Read more...] about Inspiring Stories and Impactful Moments: A Year in Review
The 20th Annual Victorian Tea wasn't just a fundraiser; it was a celebration of two decades of making a difference. Here's to many more years of tea, joy, and changing lives together! Record-Breaking Fundraising: For the first time, the Victorian Tea grossed more than $100,000. The generosity of our supporters surpassed all expectations. We are so grateful to each person who donated to help us surpass our goals. The funds raised will directly benefit the mothers, children and families of Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. They will provide crucial support and resources to those in recovery. It's heartwarming to see our community come together to empower those who need it most. Recognition of Excellence: We were honored to present Pearl of Hope awards to Murrysville … [Read more...] about A Memorable Celebration:
Each year Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS recognize the contributions and commitment of individuals and organizations with our Pearl of Hope award. We’re proud to announce for 2024 we are recognizing an individual and an organization. Both recipients have been making a difference in lives of the families we serve for many years. Dr. Rober Breit, MD, or Dr. Bob as he is known at Sojourner House, has been holding a parenting group at Sojourner House for more than 15 years. A pediatrician by trade, Dr. Bob has been a long-time friend of Sojourner House, having served as a board member and a mentor. His rapport and connection with our mothers make a huge impact on their lives. He helps them build the skills they need to repair relationships with their children and build a brighter … [Read more...] about Sojourner House Names 2024 Pearl of Hope Awardees
We are delighted to announce that Tammy Thompson, the esteemed Founder and Executive Director of Catapult Greater Pittsburgh, has been named the honorary chair for the 20th Annual Victorian Tea hosted by Sojourner House and Sojourner House MOMS. Thompson, a former board member of Sojourner House MOMS, brings with her a wealth of experience as a Housing Counselor and a passionate advocate for financial literacy and family empowerment. Having personally navigated through the challenges of poverty and homelessness, Thompson brings a unique perspective to her advocacy work. "Her first-hand experiences with poverty and homelessness have given her a unique perspective. I am ecstatic and grateful to have her as our honorary chair," remarked De’netta Benjamin-Miller, Executive Director of … [Read more...] about Celebrating Community Leadership: Tammy Thompson Named Honorary Chair for the 20th Annual Victorian Tea