LEAVENWORTH — Mary Lou Anderson has been named the recipient of the seventh annual Vincentian Charism Award. Given by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, this award honors individuals who embody the spirit of St. Vincent de Paul and the legacy of the community’s foundress Mother Xavier Ross.
The Vincentian Charism Award was established in 2018 to mark the 160th anniversary of the pioneer Sisters’ arrival in Leavenworth. Recipients are recognized for their deep commitment to serving others and for living out the Vincentian charism through their daily life, witness and mission.
Anderson exemplifies the Vincentian way of life through her humble service, faithful perseverance and daily expression of the spirit of compassion and loving care for others.
A retired physical education teacher of 32 years, Anderson has devoted her life to faith, family and community service. Since 2018, she has volunteered as outtake coordinator at the Leavenworth Interfaith Community of Hope night shelter, arriving before dawn to prepare coffee, wake guests, supervise and assist in the cleaning of the facility and encourage guests with patience and dignity. Known as the “resident seamstress,” she uses her talents to repair clothing, create reusable bags for guests’ belongings and ensure that each person feels cared for in practical and personal ways.
“Mary Lou is kind and gentle in her interactions and so calm when supporting the guests. She goes beyond the call of duty. If she sees something that needs to be done, she does it,” said Sister Pat Johannsen, SCL, who nominated Anderson for the award.
Anderson’s faith profoundly influences her service. “Without my relationship with the Lord, I don’t think I would have the heart to serve others the way I do,” she said. “To be a believer means you openly help others.”
Even during the pandemic, Anderson remained dedicated to serving, describing her work as “a gift” that allowed her to provide a safe place for the shelter’s guests.
Her service extends beyond the shelter. She volunteers with Deeper Window LLC, a respite program for caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease, where she leads exercise and activity groups. She is also active in Itch’n to Stitch, a sewing group of women that makes quilts, blankets and other items for newborns, veterans and individuals in need. Additionally, she helps prepare and serve community meals at her church, ensuring food is shared with shelter guests.
Anderson is a mother, grandmother and one of six children. She credits her parents for teaching her gentleness, faith and dedication — values she has carried into every part of her life. She lives simply, grounded in gratitude, and says she finds peace and strength in helping others.
“I have been blessed my whole life — with family, faith, and love,” she said. “Serving others is how I give back.”
In every way, Anderson’s life reflects the heart of the Vincentian charism —quiet, steadfast service rooted in faith and love. Her witness reminds us that true greatness is found not in recognition but in the daily acts of compassion that uplift others and build a more caring community.
Anderson was presented the Vincentian Charism Award during the feast of St. Vincent de Paul celebration on Sept. 27 at the Sisters of Charity motherhouse in Leavenworth.
