In 1992 when St. Mary’s opened it’s doors to the Harlem community, the face of HIV/AIDS was a grim specter leaving those infected a mere 18 months to live after diagnosis. During the years since then advances in medical treatment and chemotherapy have changed a death sentence into a life sentence. People are living with and managing this as a chronic illness. Much has happened since the early days of this disease and more changes will occur in the years to come, but St. Mary’s is steadfast in it’s commitment to providing the highest quality care to those entrusted to us. We are proud to serve with distinction.
Our vision for the future includes continuing to meet the challenges of a not for profit organization with limited resources and yet making every resident, client, family member and staff member feel as if they were in the finest and most upscale facility possible.
It is important to mention our continuing commitment to excellent health care for every resident and client. Our organization rests on the hard working members of the staff who come to work regardless of the challenges of weather, or a transit strike, as well as the dedicated members of the board of directors who donate their time selflessly to the good works of our organization. These individuals are the heart and soul of St. Mary’s Center. We are fortunate to be together.
Please take some time to navigate this website and learn more about our contributions in the HIV/AIDS Community. St. Mary’s provides a variety of essential services to a population in need. We remain dedicated to our work in the Harlem community and invite you to experience it firsthand.
Thank you for your continued support,
Holly Argent Tariq, LNHA
CEO/Administrator
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Thank you for visiting the St. Mary’s Center website. Our goal is to provide you with a solid understanding and feeling for the work we do for the HIV/AIDS community in Harlem. Working with people living with HIV/AIDS particularly in a non-profit setting can be difficult mentally and physically. The nature of the disease shows us that every day is not guaranteed. However, we work together as a family to ensure that our clients and residents receive the best quality care that they deserve. We are constantly making changes and brainstorming to create a program for our clients and residents that they will happily participate in and adhere to. The longevity and loyalty of our clients and resident is a testament to our commitment to their well-being.
We are often challenged financially as well since we are a non-profit organization and depend on the finances of the local, state and national entities that are often in flux. In our 13 years of serving the Harlem community, we understand the fickle nature of the non-profit world; therefore we do not falter in the face of adversity. As Harlem is reliving its renaissance, St. Mary’s is also experiencing a rebirth. We are confident that as the community revives that St. Mary’s will reflect that growth and continue to thrive.
We are blessed with talented and flexible staff, and honored to have incredible and resilient clients and residents who work together to create a true family environment for all. As problems arise and we are faced with change; one thing will always remain constant at St. Mary’s: high-quality health care.
Thank you for your support and we look forward to many more years of service.
Sincerely,
Diane B. Pollard
President, St. Mary’s Center Board of Directors
Board Members:
Diane B. Pollard President
George W. Goodwill Vice President
Christian R. Sonne Secretary Treasurer
The Rev. George W. Brandt, Jr.
Nell Gibson
Pearl Harris
The Rev. Earl Kooperkamp
Paula Wilson