Where “The American Dream” Becomes Reality

This post is a part of a series showcasing Silicon Valley organizations that champion positive change in our community.

Help this organization win an Xbox package by clicking the ‘like’ button!

Ellen Dumesnil has a history of helping those who have no place to call home. From her work at an Indonesian refugee camp after the Vietnam War to today, where she is divisional director for Catholic Charities, Dumesnil finds daily inspiration in the hope and determination of those she serves. At Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County, Dumesnil oversees programs that help community members in poverty, as well as international refugees of war and persecution, gain the tools necessary for self reliance.

Every day at Catholic Charities is a day of starting over again, with clients finding new hope in safe, transitional housing; English language and computer skills training; assistance with their children’s school enrollment; and access to affordable healthcare. The nonprofit also partners with a local community college to offer a unique curriculum, training refugees to provide in-home care to the elderly.  Also a lead sponsor for StepUp Silicon Valley, a campaign aimed at cutting regional poverty in half by 2020, Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County is modeling true civic leadership.

This organization’s dedication to offering the impoverished a second chance at a successful life inspires us at Microsoft. We were so inspired that, through our Biz Spark program, we collaborated with Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County to provide discounted technology to run their organization. View this video clip for more information about Catholic Charities’ work and if it inspires you, “like” this video clip and encourage members of your social network to also “like” it to increase this nonprofit’s chance at winning the Microsoft Video Challenge.