(August 18. 2006)

St. Michael’s was established in Hot Springs, Arkansas in 1908 by the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity at the invitation of Bishop Morris of the Little Rock Diocese. Its initial mission was providing for girls in need. The mission changed over time so that in the latter part of the 20th century, St. Michael’s was a Catholic elementary school. It was also housing girls who were wards of the state and Asian refugees through the Diocese of Little Rock. The religious community had dwindled in numbers over the passing of time, and financial conditions were such that cash outflows for both the convent and the school were far exceeding cash inflows. The school was closed in 2001.

The sisters’ faith in the Lord remained strong, but their business acumen was limited. In July 2000, a knight from the Knights of Columbus Council 10208 in Hot Springs Village, AR, Milt Spaniel and his wife, Janice, became involved with St. Michael’s. From their love of the sisters and St. Michael’s, a relationship evolved that still flourishes today. The couple enlisted the support of Council 10208 and the people of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Hot Springs Village and formed a group of concerned people called "Friends of St. Michael’s," and they set out to help St. Michael’s get back on solid footing. Through their efforts, St. Michael’s is now looking forward to celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2008.

The "Friends of St. Michael’s" initially provided the sisters with business planning and financial management tools and skills. The boarders were phased out over time, and the school has been recreated as the thriving "St. Michael’s Catholic Child Care." After the initial development of a successful business model by the Knights, the support continues with annual fund raisers, work projects, management/financial guidance, and prayers for success. Through this labor of love and continuous support, St. Michael’s is now a fully accredited Catholic Child Care Center fast approaching 90 plus students, babies through 4 year olds, and implementing leading edge programs.

The financial losses incurred by both the convent and the day care have been reduced by approximately 90% over five years. Working together and going forward to a financial breakeven is now a distinct possibility. In the words of Sister Thomas O’Keefe, Director, "Money is not for money’s sake, but targeted toward the greater service to the community." The relationship between St. Michael’s and Council 10208 has been the most notable charitable work for the last six years on a regular basis. It remains strong and is very rewarding.

The Arkansas Knights of Columbus State Council, State Deputy Lee Borne, and State Chaplin Father Victor Bieberle have helped in administering and promoting this most notable charity. The State Council has awarded Council 10208 with a "Program of the Year 2002-2003" plaque in the Church Activity category and an " Knight of the Year" 2003-2004 plaque. Monsignor Gaston Hebert, Little Rock Diocese Vicar General, has also given the knights and the sisters spiritual and administrative guidance.