'Cranaleith has a softly spoken atmosphere that says you're welcome here; come and rest.'

1. Tell us briefly about Cranaleith. What is the history, and what is the mission or purpose here?
Cranaleith is a Gaelic word for "Sanctuary of Trees." Our mission is to offer a contemplative space for all those seeking wholeness and transformation. We offer programs and customized retreats for a range of constituents, including business leaders seeking time for knowledge, reflection and renewal.
Cranaleith Spiritual Center is situated on 10-acre property (13475 Proctor Road) with beautiful natural surroundings and superb hospitality. Prominent 19th century suffragette Rachel Foster Avery previously owned the land before a local family, the Trainers, purchased it in 1906. Since our founding as a non-profit by the Sisters of Mercy in 1998, we have served nearly 50,000 guests through our non-denominational programs. The facilities include housing for overnight guests and an 8,000-square-foot Education and Conference Center with state-of-the-art technology that is also an affordable corporate meeting space.

2. The Center stresses concepts like "reinvention" and "reinvigorate" and "refresh." How does this bolster leadership skills?
Effective leaders know that stress can be a good thing. It keeps you focused and competitive. But stress can also turn toxic, especially in today's the brutal economic environment. Our Work & Spirit programs are designed to provide a breathing space for those in business for quiet reflection, supportive dialogue with colleagues, and a process conducive to discovering fresh perspectives. Participants have the opportunity to explore, from their own experience, what humanizes the workplace, honor the human spirit, and frees people to be effective leaders with a sense of integrity and a larger purpose.
On January 22, we will be holding our next program for business leaders. Leading with Courage and Heart will offer top executives the opportunity to begin the New Year by taking a day to reflect on their personal leadership goals. The program is hosted by Dr. Karol Wasylyshyn, one of America's preeminent executive coaches and moderated by Dr. Marisa Guerin, an experienced executive and consultant.

3. Cranaleith offers a "non-traditional" approach to say, a company retreat or business planning session. Please explain that for us.
Cranaleith is more than just a facility to hold an executive retreat. It is a space with experts skilled in empowering people to get in touch with what really matters to them. Executives get away from their everyday work environment and reflect on strategies, values and missions. They often leave energized and with renewed spirits and new perspectives on leadership.

4. Has Cranaleith found its membership with the GNPCC to be beneficial? If yes, how?
Membership in GNPCC has helped us expand our reach within Northeast Philadelphia. Through networking events we have formed valuable partnerships with groups and businesses who believe in our mission and the important work we do. Local businesses can now join our newly formed Business Council and take advantage of discounted program rates, customized retreats, and discounted meeting space.

5. Please tell us about the staff at Cranaleith. What are some of the strengths and talents they offer?
We are fortunate to have a talented group of people here. Our programs are taught by professionals in their fields with backgrounds in business, education, social work, theology, and psychology, and environmental sustainability. Cranaleith is led by Executive Director, Veneta Lorraine, D.Min. She has a strong background in ministry, including campus ministry, theological and religious education, spiritual direction, supervision and retreat work. Maria DiBello, RSM, is Director of Programming for Cranaleith and has a strong background in religious, theology and spiritual direction. Expert adjunct instructors lead programs and customized retreats. 

For more information about Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Road, Philadelphia, PA, call 215-934-6206 or visit www.cranaleith.org.  Email: [email protected]).

75+ applicants attended the event to learn about the many opportunities available at the new LIFE Center at Roosevelt Plaza.

More than 75 applicants and Councilman Bobby Henon attended NewCourtland's job fair at the senior services organization's new site in Northeast Philadelphia.  In addition to promoting job growth in the community, the NewCourtland LIFE Center at Roosevelt Plaza is the first of its kind in the Northeast and will provide comprehensive, community-based healthcare and services to help seniors live independently, in their own homes, for as long as they can.

City Councilman Henon discusses job growth in the Northeast Philadelphia region with NewCourtland Senior Services representatives Mary Austin, Vice President of Health Services, and Robert Theil, Government Affairs Manager.

"We are excited and happy to fill a need in the Northeast and to serve seniors at this new, convenient location," said Mary Austin, NewCourtland's Vice President of Health Services. "We are also gratified to provide employment opportunities to members of this great community."

Job interviews took place onsite for the full and part-time, clinical and non-clinical positions available at the Center, which is scheduled to open on January 19.  Attendees also had the opportunity to receive a free chair massage and tour the brand new, 10,000 square-foot facility.  

Positions are still available and those interested in pursuing a job at this facility can apply at www.NewCourtland.org.

Philadelphia City Councilman Bobby Henon, a Democrat who represents the 6th Councilmanic District in Northeast Philadelphia, was elected Majority Leader by his peers on Jan. 4. Councilman Henon holds the second most powerful position on City Council. The vote was unanimous. Councilman Henon is a strong supporter of the GNPCC and late last year joined friends and colleagues at the GNPCC Meet Your Elected Officials breakfast at Community College of Philadelphia's Northeast Regional Center.