MARY MAGDALEN HOUSE

Mary magdalen house

Restoring dignity to those experiencing homelessness in Greater Cincinnati.

MEET THE MMH TEAM

THE FOLKS WHO MAKE our work possible.

The MMH Approach

We believe that dignity is the first step towards hope, and everyone should have access to hygiene services.

Our Values

We respect the inherent value + worth of each person.

DIGNITY

We advocate for the wellbeing of all individuals.

EQUITY

We value, listen to, and learn from each other.

RESPECT

We serve with the fullest passion, and aim to do our best in every situation.

EXCELLENCE

Since Mr. Gardner's passing in 2013, his family has continued his legacy of devotion to the House and its guests. Our original facility quickly became crowded. In order to accommodate more guests, we opened our new location at St. Anthony Center in November of 2017.

THE STORY CONTINUES

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The Gardners generously committed to providing the funds to purchase a building for this purpose. After examining many options, they purchased a nearby building, at 1221-1223 Main Street. Remodeling began in late 1985 and on March 25, 1988, Mary Magdalen House opened. We haven't lacked for guests since.

BROUGHT TO FRUITION

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Reverend Byers met with interested parishioners to discern the best course of action. Mrs. Mary Heller and Jim and Joan Gardner led the effort. As they observed the needs of the people in the area, it became clear that a bath house would fill a critical void.

A POWERFUL OBSERVATION

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In 1985, Reverend Dohrman Byers, of Old St. Mary's Church, and his parishioners began examining ways to help the people living in the neighborhood around the Church. It was clear that there was need and the parish wanted to determine the best way to help.

How It All Began

01 The Story of Mary Magdalen House

Restoring dignity and hope to those experiencing homelessness since 1988.

Of course, she grew to love Cincinnati and has stayed here ever since! A graduate of Cincinnati Christian University, Jenny has been serving in nonprofits for the last 19 years in various roles. She is passionate about serving others and improving the community. In her free time Jenny enjoys gardening, walking her dogs, and playing piano and trombone.

Jenny grew up in southeast Ohio and moved to Cincinnati to attend college.

Jenny Perez

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

After working in high schools for 6 years, Allie joined Mary Magdalen as Assistant Director. Allie is passionate about honoring everyone’s inherent human dignity, and building intentional relationships. When she’s not at MMH, she is doing Crossfit, coaching soccer, walking her dog Zuko, rock climbing, or drinking too much coffee.

Allie attended the University of Dayton receiving her undergraduate and graduate degrees in education.

Allie Brizzi

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

His background includes 6 years at the CRC in Price Hill and Corryville, and 2 years of teaching PE at St. Francis de Sales grade school. Keith is currently the Gamble Montessori High School Co-ed Soccer head coach of 5 years! In his free time, Keith enjoys traveling, shopping, and working out. He is a huge people person, which makes him a perfect fit for MMH!

Keith grew up in Dayton + made his way to Cincinnati through his college career at Mount St. Joseph University + Cincinnati Christian University.

Keith Dixon

RESOURCE COORDINATOR

Alicia has 20 years of non-profit experience and is working on her Master’s degree in Nonprofit Administration. Her passion lies in serving those experiencing poverty and homelessness so she feels right at home here at Mary Magdalen House. She loves working with our guests + helping to broaden our reach as an organization. In her free time, Alicia enjoys hanging out with her husband and 2 children.

Alicia grew up in Columbus, Ohio but has lived in Cincinnati since starting her family in the early 2000's.

Alicia Stollenwerk

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

With a background in ethical marketing along with a deep passion for supporting individuals’ dignity, she knew she would fit right in with MMH and joined our team in April 2024. In her free time, you’ll find her exploring her neighborhood, watching documentaries, or hanging out with her cat, JPEG.

After a few years of working with unhoused youth in Hawaii + creating intercultural university programs, Laken moved to Cincinnati at the end of 2023.

Laken Crow

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT + COMMUNICATIONS

meet the team

Want to join the team?

Click to view our open position and learn more about how to apply!