Mercy Home recently welcomed our good friends from County Cork, Ireland to our West Loop Campus. Among the delegation were County Cork Mayor Patrick Gerard Murphy, civic leaders, and 22 members from Ireland’s Civil Defense, a volunteer-based organization that supports front line emergency services.
Mercy Home’s relationship with County Cork is an outgrowth of an international trade partnership between the governments in Cork County, Ireland and Cook County, Illinois. The partnership celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
Vice President of Youth Programs Tom Gilardi and Director of Business Development and Strategic Initiatives Jim Marrese hosted the group, providing an overview of the Home, before giving tours of our Learning Center and one of our boys homes.
The bond between Mercy Home and County Cork grows stronger each year, thanks to a relationship which has graciously facilitated many memorable trips for our youth to visit Ireland. With a group of Mercy Home youth slated to visit this year, County Cork delegates are eager to host another successful adventure.
In appreciation of this unique relationship, Irish delegates and Mercy Home coworkers exchanged gifts that symbolized such a rewarding friendship. Marrese presented a framed drawing of Mercy Home’s iconic oak door, which has been welcoming kids for over 130 years.
“This is a symbol of our welcoming hospitality, which symbolizes a lot of what you do on our trip to Ireland,” said Marrese. “On behalf of Mercy Home, thank you so much for being here.”
Mayor Murphy reciprocated with gifts and appreciation of his own.
“It brings us great satisfaction to be a part of this. The combined efforts of many people make this all happen, and we’re delighted to facilitate it,” said Mayor Murphy. “It’s something that’s very close to our heart. It’s one of the best things that come from the relationship between Cook County and Cork County.
Mayor Murphy has worked with the Centre for Independent Living in Limerick and the National Learning Network in Bantry West Cork – programs that deliver certified training and resources for people with disabilities.
“I know what it’s like to take someone who has significant needs, build them up, and get them on the right path forward, so they can see a future for themselves,” Mayor Murphy said. “I wish you well in your endeavors. I know you’re doing a fantastic job. We look forward to maintaining the relationship for many years.”
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