The Cabrini Mission Foundation — which continues the legacy of the religious order founded by St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in 1880 — has named Emmy Award-winning actor, producer and activist John Leguizamo an ambassador for the foundation.
Jay Dixit photo/Wikimedia Commons
“With his remarkable talent, commitment to social justice, and drive to create positive change, John embodies the spirit of the mission to serve and empower communities in need,” the New York-based foundation said in a June 11 announcement.
The foundation serves as the philanthropic arm of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Guadalupe Province, the religious order founded by St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the patron saint of immigrants.
The announcement said that Leguizamo, who has appeared in more than 100 films and is a frequent star on the Broadway stage, “will use his voice and influence to raise awareness about the foundation’s essential work in immigration, education, healthcare, social services and pastoral care, especially among the most vulnerable and marginalized communities.”
“John Leguizamo’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life makes him an ideal partner for our mission,” said Sr. Pietrina Raccuglia, MSC who is the chairwoman of the foundation’s board of directors. “We’re honored to welcome John aboard and eagerly anticipate collaborating with him to effect meaningful change.”
For his part, the Colombia-born actor said, “My mother has long been connected to the Missionary Sisters, and I have always respected St. Frances Xavier Cabrini’s legacy here in New York City. The Foundation is a wonderful organization continuing Mother Cabrini’s work, and I am honored to be associated with them.”
Embracing Mother Cabrini’s ‘Education of the Heart’ principle, t he Cabrini Mission Foundation has launched its 2024 education grant for students across New York. The primary objectives of the grant are to support faith-based Catholic education in New York, provide financial assistance to students, and promote academic achievement and community engagement.
It was a night full of smiles, laughter, and a few tears, as attendees came together to celebrate Cabrini Mission Foundation’s annual 2022 Gala, hosted on Oct. 13th at the Metropolitan Club. The theme at this year’s event, “Education of the Heart,” embodied Mother Cabrini’s education principle – teachers or advocates for Cabrini, need to “Educate the Hearts” of those they teach, which links intellectual competence with moral development and instills a special concern for those persons who are in need.
Cabrini Mission Foundation, in collaboration with Cabrini Immigrant Services – NYC, have partnered with Community of Sant’Egidio, a global Christian movement of volunteer communities focused on service to the poor, together have helped to distribute 400 meals weekly to the homeless population in New York City. Volunteers and supporters work in tandem to provide individuals in need with a hot meal, a friendly smile, and an opportunity for a long-term relationship.
In a continued effort to respond with urgency to the individuals affected by natural disasters, Cabrini Mission Foundation, in collaboration with the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Guadalupe Providence, has partnered with Water With Blessings, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to providing clean drinking water, to assist those affected by the Appalachian floods in Perry County, Kentucky. The 100 filters donated will provide desperate mountain families and the elderly with access to safe, clean drinking water where the entire water system has been destroyed and offer financial relief from paying for bottled water, which may not be accessible.