In 2006, the Boards of Directors of four agencies operating under the auspices of Catholic Charities voted to merge with the intention of forming a more efficient system for deliveringmuch-needed services to children and families in St. Louis and surrounding areas.

We value the life of a child from the time of conception to adulthood.

Each child deserves to be a member of a caring family.

Family can be defined in many ways. Our definition of family begins with a child and one caring adult.

We strive to instill hope for the future in all of our children and families. In fact, we must be the "keeper” of hope for children who are often unable to imagine an end to the trauma and pain they’ve experienced.

We embrace a positive culture in which all staff act as shepherds of the youth in our care, taking opportunities every day to guide them toward their goals, allowing them to see possibilities in the world around them and make the most of the gifts they have been given.

Foster Care: A safe, caring home while connections are made with family and community for a permanent home or transition to adulthood.

Residential Care: A safe place to heal and implement a plan for full functioning as a member of family and community.

Adoption: Children become permanent members of safe, caring families.

Expectant Parent Support: Healthy babies are born into safe, stable families.

Youth/Family Support and Mentoring: Families and youth attain the skills for successful functioning in the community, workplace, and family.

Throughout our work, we employ a team approach emphasizing full participation of the child and family while engaging natural and professional supports.

We are committed to meeting each child’s needs within a family setting and will provide support to the family as needed to ensure stability for the child.

We have a special commitment to older youth as they transition into adulthood, emphasizing permanent connections to caring  adults.

We are committed to a strength based, individualized approach to all who come in contact with Good Shepherd.

We seek out and build on the strengths of our staff and community partners.

We respect and value differences and diversity in all aspects of our work.