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St. Dominic Village has been blessed by the dedication and talents of Judith Raines for many years. Ms. Raines was rst introduced to SDV when she was researching alternate living arrangements for a family member. “I began exploring alternative living arrangements for my Aunt, Dorothy Dues, soon after Tropical Storm Allison ooded her home in June of 2001. She had already given up her car keys for health rea- sons, and after the ood, did not feel safe living alone. We visited many independent living facilities, but in the end decided upon St. Dominic Village. The ability to attend Mass every day was the deciding factor. Soon after, my Mother moved into Independent Living in 2006 and
remained there until she died in 2011.” What started with visits to spend time with family blossomed into a philanthropic passion. “As time went on, I became more involved in different ways. My husband, Dave and I were Patron Corps Chairs, I was then a member of a committee: then I was on the Board of Directors; then Vice Chair; and then Chairman of the Board. I am now an Advisory Member of the Board.”
When asked what she would like to change at SDV, Judith responded, “The one thing I would like to change is the familiarity of SDV with all the Catholics in the Archdiocese. One surprise I have had ever since I rst became involved is that SDV is not well known or understood within our Archdiocese. It is the predomi- nantly Catholic Retirement Community in the entire Archdiocese Galveston-Houston. Many people think it is just for the priests, but nothing could be further from the truth. St. Dominic Village serves and cares for a community of elder citizens, in addition to the priests. Many of the residents outlive their resources, so SDV heavily subsidizes Medicaid residents. To do this, the Village has to raise funds and depend upon the gener- osity of those who support our mission of Caring for Our Elders with the Compassion of Christ and those who can no longer care for themselves. So, in addition to doing the hard work of caring for the residents, the staff and board also have to worry about raising money.”
Judith has visions for the future of our campus which include, “Having either a completely new skilled nurs- ing facility or at least a major newly renovated one. I would also like for there to be a memory support wing. We have needed one for a long time, and the need is increasing. If I could just wish things into reality, those would be on the top of my list.”
Now retired from Conoco, Judith enjoys spending time working on her farm. She also volunteers on a couple of advisory committees at the University of St. Thomas and with St. Anne’s School. She loves spending time with her great nieces and nephews who call her “YAYA”.
We are truly blessed by the friendship and support of Judith Raines.