Seton Center

To better acquaint our members and the greater community with our grantees, we are highlighting some of the nonprofit organizations that have received WGC grant funds. This quarter, we reached out to Deb Bisenieks, Executive Director of the Seton Center, to learn more about the organization's mission to provide support services to women in our community.

Please introduce yourself. What is your role at your organization and how long have you been with the organization?

My name is Deb Bisenieks, and I have been the Executive Director of the Seton Center for almost three years. I’m a native of Northern Frederick County, so I am personally motivated to make sure the residents have the resources and services they need. My goal is for the Seton Center to be known as the Social Services Hub of Northern Frederick County—a place where help is always within reach.

What is the mission of the organization, and what personally moves you about that mission? Seton Center’s mission is to work alongside our neighbors to build a hopeful future, inspired by Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, by focusing on the well-being of each person.

Our vision is to be a leading northern Frederick County, Maryland resource for emergency support services and skill development, catalyzing systemic change for a more vibrant, healthy community.

What are the most significant challenges that the organization is facing right now? What are the most significant challenges faced by the clients/populations that you serve? Affordable housing and access to low-cost food remain two of the greatest challenges facing the individuals and families we serve. As the cost of everyday living continues to rise, many find it harder to stay afloat. Through the support of our stakeholders, we are making a difference by offering financial education, practical workshops, and easy access to vital services, helping our clients move toward greater stability and a brighter future.

What is the nature of the Giving Circle grant that you received in our last grant cycle, and what impact will it have on women and their dependents in Frederick?

Seton Center is grateful for the generous support from the Women’s Giving Circle. In the last grant cycle, we received funding for two programs- housing security and dental.

Do you have any specific stories that you can share with us that illustrate what you are doing in the community?

Let me tell you about “Ellen”. She called Seton Center because she went to her dentist, trying to be proactive herself…but was told that she needed a root canal. When she saw the cost, she just knew that she couldn’t afford it…and hated the idea of having the tooth extracted. We sent Ellen to Catoctin Dental, one of Seton Center’s partnering dentists (who offers discounted services to clients in our dental program). Ellen was able to get the root canal she needed. She paid $500 towards the work…that’s what she could afford. She was so relieved to have the work done that after her dental appointment, she came to Seton Center and hugged Sr. Roberta in thanks. (How many times does someone hug a person for a root canal?? 😊)

The cost of a root canal could have threatened Ellen’s ability to pay her rent or utilities. That kind of stress is not healthy for any household.

So, thank you, WGC…your support for Seton Center’s Dental Program even had a positive impact on a woman’s ability to keep up with her housing costs.

Is there anything further that members of the Giving Circle can do to help, in terms of volunteering, in-kind donations, etc?

Seton Center is also always looking to add volunteers to our team. If you are interested in donating some of your talents and time, call Ronald Aruldass at 301-447-6102 ext. 18.