IMPACT STORIES
Gabriela Dorantes
Casa Romero opened its doors to me in 2013 when I served as development director for a brief time. The time I spent inside of Casa Romero as an employee allowed me the safety, support, and respite to discern where I was called to go next in my professional life. Due to personal struggles, I truly believe that had I been anywhere else during that period in my life my overall health and wellbeing would have been in great danger.
Casa Romero is unlike anything else. It is an oasis; a place for rejuvenation and healing. Its programs and services fill voids within the community via the renewal of individual spirits. Casa is special because it seeks to mend social injustices by empowering youth, adults, and families to realize freedom within themselves; to uncover the gifts they’ve already been blessed with that many don’t know are there.
That’s what Casa Romero did for me. It helped me see what was already within me and taught me how to use it to free myself while also serve others in this community. I feel more liberated because of Casa Romero and I see how it does the same for so many others. It has been a joy to remain connected to Casa Romero as an ongoing volunteer and board member (2018-2023).
Cecelia Fuller
Creighton University Student and
Casa Romero Urban Plunge Participant
Throughout the week, I found myself drawn to Laura (Casa’s Urban Plunge Program Director) and her energy. She was so intentional in all her actions and truly embodies the word magis. Laura was constantly finding God in all things, and as the week carried on, I noticed myself striving to be like her.
As a very loud and extroverted individual, I appreciated how Laura showed me how to admire the silence. How to sit back and observe what is happening around you and grow in appreciation with it. Now, a few weeks have passed since I sat with Laura and listened to the waves of Lake Michigan, but that practice of noticing God in the small moments around me has become commonplace.
That sense of magis carried into the rest of the trip as well. Because my group was participating in an “urban plunge” we got to experience more than one area of focus. A few things of emphasis were the immigration system and its impact on becoming a US citizen, the impact of being unhoused or homeless, and the history of racial injustice.
As a journalism major myself, this trip allowed me to realize my passion for focusing on the people behind the stories. I hope to continue into the world by putting people first, and caring about the whole person, not just the experience they are going through.
Fatima Jimenez
Casa Romero Renewal Center will always have a special place in my heart, as it took a significant role in my upbringing and left a lasting impact on my life. I was first introduced to the center as a middle school student at Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, where I participated in class retreats. Every year, these retreats helped me learn more about myself emotionally and spiritually, created an avenue for deeper connections with my classmates who now are some of my best friends, and led me to better understand concepts of bullying, healthy friendships, self love, and many more.
Later on, I went on to assume greater responsibility as a small group leader, a large group facilitator and a summer intern for Casa Romero. In these spaces, I learned to use my talents and skills for the common good, I was introduced to the professional workplace, and received countless opportunities to identify and immerse myself with other Milwaukee youth in my community.
All of these experiences and lessons come together to shape the woman I am today – she is a graduate of Marquette University and now a teacher at
Acosta Middle School.
Kyara Vega
Retreat Participant and
Retreat Leader
My involvement at Casa Romero has been nothing short of extraordinary, particularly through my roles as a leader in their Mom and Daughter retreats and as a music camp leader. Organizing and leading Mom and Daughter retreats has been a deeply fulfilling experience. These retreats are designed to strengthen the bond between mothers and daughters through engaging activities and meaningful conversations. Witnessing the impact of these retreats on the participants, as they create lasting memories and deepen their connections, has been truly heartwarming.
Moreover, Casa Romero's commitment to creating inclusive and empowering spaces is evident in all their programs. The organization ensures that every individual, regardless of background or skill level, feels welcome and valued. This dedication to inclusivity has been a main factor in my positive experiences as a leader in these programs.
Casa Romero has not just been an organization for me; it's been a heart-warming experience. The opportunities, mentorship, and sense of community have all contributed to my growth in ways that extend beyond what words can express. I am genuinely thankful for my journey with Casa Romero.