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Dorothy Morris :: SAMMinistries Chief Financial Officer

Contribute to Dorothy’s voting process by sharing a review after her article below.

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Hope to the Homeless

Founded in 1983, SAMMinistries is an interfaith ministry dedicated to providing shelter and care to the homeless of San Antonio .  Today, SAMMinistries is the largest service provider of direct care and shelter in San Antonio and the surrounding area.  

 

In FY2009, SAMMinistries provided residential services to nearly 4,500 unduplicated men, women and children and aided approximately 300 families and individuals who were at risk of becoming homeless.  As CFO, Dorothy Morris oversees the organizations budget which is in excess of $6,000,000, and provides oversight to the ministry’s social enterprise, Furniture for a Cause, which provides job training in its retail store.

 

SAMMinistries provides an array of programs and services available to the homeless of San Antonio as well as those at risk of becoming homeless. Programs offered to guests include life skills, job training, financial management, computer skills, parenting classes and more. Our guests have access to medical and dental facilities and each program is designed to provide our guests with the basic tools necessary to return to the path of self-sufficiency. 

 

This past year, Dorothy took a leadership role in the organization’s efforts to acquire stimulus funds for its homeless prevention program.  Through these efforts, the organization acquired $1,800,000 in additional funds to help our neighbors who are at risk of becoming homeless. 

 

With over 24 years of experience in the non-profit arena, Dorothy joined SAMMinistries in February 2006. As Chief Financial Officer, Dorothy directs the organization's financial planning and accounting practices as well as its relationship with banking/investment institutions, stakeholders, and the financial community.


Dorothy has served in lead financial positions and executive director roles in several non-profit entities including Vocational Rehabilitation Facilities, Children’s Bereavement Center , Family Service Association and Congregation Agudas Achim.

Dorothy currently serves as an adjunct accounting professor for the Alamo Community College District and Wayland Baptist University .


Dorothy graduated with Distinction and Special Honors from Jacksonville State University , Jacksonville , Alabama with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting and holds a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in accounting from Troy State University in Dothan , Alabama.

http://www.SAMM.org/

 

 

 

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# Cassandra Swanson
Monday, November 16, 2009 6:58 PM
She is a wonderful and very generous lady, whom I have priviledge to know and work with while taking care of her special needs grandson. She deserves the best as this is what she gives to all of us each and every day. She gives everyone her most valuable commodity, her time and attention.
# Melissa Van Amburgh
Monday, November 16, 2009 7:14 PM
Dorothy is such an asset to any organization. She has played leading roles in many civic organizations including the Rotary Club. She has also received the Paul Harris Fellowship award twice from the Rotary Club and that says a lot about her character. She is an outstanding woman and Mother and Grandmother. I should know, she is my Mother.

She left her job as Executive Administrator of the Wiregrass Rehabilitation Center in Dothan Alabama in 1996 to move to San Antonio where she took a position making 1/4 of her salary. She did this because I had been in a tragic car accident and had to have someone to care for me. She gave up everything, including her life back home, just for me. That speaks without saying what type of person my Mother is. She also helps me now take care of my special needs Son, Kyle, who had a stroke in utero. She is always there. Whether she has worked a 10 hour day and then taught for 3 hours she would still come and stay the night at the hospital with me and my son. She has never missed a single night since my son was born 8 years ago!!!! Family is everything to my Mother. This is why she works so hard at Samm's to make sure that all of the families are taken care of.

I am very proud of my Mother. She is my idle. I have never admired anyone like I do her. She puts everyone and everything before herself. She is the most selfless person that I know. Her dedication amazes me. But, that should not surprise me, do to the fact that she is a pretty "Amazing" person herself.

I hope that she wins. Not because she is my Mother, but because, she deserves to be recognized for all of her accomplishments. She has always stayed in the background. Never taking the credit she rightly deserves. Even if she does not win, she will always be the winner in my eyes!!!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 10:53 AM
I am extremely fortunate to count Dorothy as a friend and colleague. As a friend, I enjoy time with Dorothy and I know she has true concern for my well-being. She has an infectious laugh and a true zeal for life.

She is an extremely dedicated member of the leadership at SAMMinistries, and works extremely hard to ensure that the organization runs efficiently and above reproach. Her dedication to the organization arises out of her concern for the clients we serve. Through her efficiency, we are able to ensure that funds entrusted to us are used wisely.

Dorothy is an extremely bright lady who wears many hats. From mother, grandmother, and friend, to professor and CFO, she works extremely hard to meet the needs of all who depend upon her.

Dorothy is a great CFO and a worthy nominee for this award!! Congratulations, Dorothy.
# Walt Hudson
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 11:34 AM
I have only worked at SAMMinistries for a short time and I work at a different facility than Ms. Morris. However, I will say that my limited interaction with Dorothy has shown her to be a strong, fair leader with a keen business sense and a loving heart.

Dorothy is an important part of SAMMinistries not just from an executive standpoint, but a morale standpoint. Dorothy does not need the title CFO to reflect the fact that she is a leader. She carries qualities that make her a leader in action and not just word. I can say that Dorothy is one of the most effective no-nonsense leaders I have had the opportunity to work with.

Along with being effective in getting the work done, Dorothy understands the importance of people. She has an incredible sense of humor and uses that sense of humor to build relationships with those around her.

Finally, Dorothy is compassionate towards those that she serves both within and outside of the organization. I have been witness to some of the wonderful efforts she had made on behalf of others.

Dorothy Morris is a special person and we are blessed to have her as part of SAMMinistries.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009 11:40 AM
It is an honor to nominate Dorothy for this award. She is an amazing woman filled with character, love of life and a heart of gold. Dorothy holds so many admirable traits. She is committed to going above and beyond to help those who are experiencing difficult times in their lives. Dorothy places the needs of others above herselt. I so admire her stength and her courage to take on any personal or professional challenge that is placed within her path. She makes me laugh and encourages me when times seem to be a bit overwhelming. I thank her for all that she does for SAMMinistries. I have so much more to learn from this beautiful lady! Dorothy is a wonderful woman that I am so blessed to have as a friend and colleague.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 10:26 AM
The word 'angel' is perfect for describing Dorothy Morris. She even looks like an angel. To know the extent of her angelic qualities is to know her personally and professionally. At home, Dorothy cares for her sick grandbaby, 'Bubby', around the clock. She may not physically be by his side, but her heart and mind are always with him. He is an absolute miracle and when she describes him, she says, "all he is is love because that's all he knows". I believe he is 8 years old now and he wasn't supposed to make it past infancy. This incredible responsibility is only more complicated by her daughter's, 'Bubby's' mom, health. She also has a severe illness that is beginning to take over her body. The tasks God has handed to Dorothy during her life here on earth are only handled this well by an angel.
When she is here at work, no matter how late she stayed up the night before because a nurse called in, she is 100% dedicated to SAMMinistries' mission. In addition to being the CFO, she plays an important part in securing our government funding. Her great organizational skills have greatly impacted our ability to succeed in this realm.
She takes on yet another role in SAMMinistries, she is the overseeing officer for Furniture For A Cause. This is a retail furniture where ALL of the proceeds go directly to our programs. In this facet, she wears many hats, but the one which most demonstrates her compassion is her constant dependability in the eyes of the clients who work in our furniture store. She acts as a quasi case manager for them. They can always go to her for advice and help and she is devoted to their transformation. Furthermore, all employees within the ministry can turn to her at any time and they will find a kind heart and a great capacity for caring.
She is a wonderful role model. She not only has a heart of gold, but she has a strong will. She is very passionate about everything she does and she does not waver in her beliefs. She is a pillar for our ministry and an absolute blessing. I cannot think of anyone who would more deserve this award.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 12:22 PM
Dorothy is a blessing to SAMMinistries. Her talents were hidden but were revealed to me as I took over SAMministries about two years ago. She is a very effective CFO but also understands the importance of the programs and services we deliver to our clients. She even helped raise a tremendous amount of money for our prevention program which also demonstrates her awareness of the needs of the organization to fund our programs. She also oversses our retail store Furniture for a Cause so she manages a small retail business on top of her CFO duties.

Dorothy has a wonderful heart and a bright spirit. She is passionate about our Ministry and our employees. She is the consumate mother and grandmother, providing a loving environment for her daughter and grandson.

She is most deserving of this award.!
# Lauren Lewis
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 2:19 PM
What a woman we have the privilege of knowing in Ms. Dorothy Morris!

She will not setlle for partial efforts, excuses, or non-answers. She expects everyone to give their absolute best and then some, as she does.

She will present a challenge and, in the same breath, provide comfort and encouragement that lets you know that she is presenting you with this challenge because she BELIEVES in you. What a gift!

Dorothy knows what it means to serve. She has spent her life doing so.

Her spirit is unmistakable and she, remarkable.





Wednesday, November 18, 2009 2:26 PM
Dorothy touches the lives of everyone she meets with a degree of positive energy matched only by her deep spirituality. This faith-filled woman is one of those rare individuals who brings immeasurable blessings to her home, workplace and community.

SAMMinistries brings "hope to the homeless", and Dorothy plays a significant role in its mission in her position as CFO. She does more than most by bringing hope to staff, volunteers, donors, clients, guests and those at-risk through her stength of character, servant-leadership skills, positive actions, and faith experience.

I cannot think of a more deserving candidate for this award.
# Deborah Wachsmuth
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 3:35 PM
Dorothy is such a wonderful, caring individual who simply brings joy to everyone she meets. Her faith is sincere, and apparant to all whom she ministers. I have had the privilege of knowing her for over five years , and am so very blessed to have her in my life.

I can not imagine anyone more deserving of this award as this vibrant, caring soul.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009 4:02 PM
I can't think of a more fitting award for a wonderful, self-less, and dedicated, servant leader such as Dorothy. As Chair of the Board of SAMMinistries, I have had a wonderful opportunity to see how Dorothy applies her compassion, knowledge, energy, passion, and expertise in serving the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless. She has been instrumental in SAMMInistries obtaining critical and significant funding, and as CFO she helps to ensure that dollars donated are used efficiently.

I know that I am only seeing one facet of this Angel at work. She is also a dedicated Angel to her family. Bottom line is, that when God lists his Angels here on earth, Dorothy Morris is one of His shining stars.
Thursday, November 19, 2009 8:41 AM
Dorothy is AMAZING! When faced with challenges, she always rises to the occassion with zeal, determination and a bright spirit. She has such passion and belief in the work she does - both personally and professionally - that it is awe-inspiring! She is a fighter at heart and if there is something that will benefit her grandbaby or the people being served by SAMM - she will fight with grace, dedication and tirelessbess for that blessing. Dorothy may have a lot of responsibilities on her shoulders, but no matter what, it has been my experience that if you need a kind or encouraging word - she is there to be counted on for that as well.

She is full of wisdom and life...and I count it a blessing that she helps to oversee SAMMinistries and that I count her as 'friend.'
Friday, November 20, 2009 7:53 AM
The work that Dorothy has done for SAMMinistries over the years has been tremendous! Aside from her obvious passion for this cause, she has devoted countless hours and resources to make sure our mission is successful. I am blessed to work side by side with such passionate people like Dorothy. I’m sure everyone here at SAMMinistries will agree that we are extremely lucky to have her as a co-worker and as a friend!
# Matt Curtis
Friday, November 20, 2009 2:25 PM
Dorothy is an incredible woman. She is a servant leader with upright character, an infectious sense of humor, and a motivating work ethic. She is the standard that we should all live up to in regards to loving and serving our families. It is a blessing to know her.
Monday, November 30, 2009 9:00 AM
There are very few people who have passed through my life and truly made me want to be a better person and Dorothy IS NO DOUBT ONE OF THOSE SPECIAL PEOPLE TO ME. I have had the honor and privilege to work with Dorothy for almost 3 years now, at SAMMinistries, and I have never seen her put her needs above others, in work or in her personal life. She has challenges at home that would make most people bitter and depressed but instead she views each and every day as a miracle. She NEVER asks "why" she just says "why not".

She is one of the GREATEST FRIENDS anyone could ask for. Over the years she has been my shoulder to cry on and my personal inspiration. She always listens with her whole heart and never judges. During my own tough times, I always know that I can go to her and she will point me in the right direction and remind me "there is always a reason for everything".

I am truly BLESSED in every way to have her in my life!!
# Paige Kyle
Tuesday, December 01, 2009 6:21 AM
I have seen the work of SAMMinistries and the leadership that Dorothy has provided over the past few years. I truly appreciate the Dorothy's tireless dedication to the organization.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009 9:26 AM
Dorothy is a tireless advocate and provider for the homeless of our community as well as a community leader in non-profit management.
# Elizabeth
Thursday, December 03, 2009 1:23 PM
Although I have only known Dorothy a little over a year, her leadership and influence in my professional development has been enormous. She is well respected in the community and her work ethic is impeccable. When it comes to her family and you see her interact with her grandson, you see a very tender loving side of Dorothy that shows how well rounded she is as an individual. It has been an honor to serve with Dorothy at SAMMinistries.
Thursday, December 03, 2009 2:37 PM
It has been a pleasure to have Dorothy for my supervisor for the last three years. She is dedicated to the mission of SAMMinistries and serves with the upmost intergity, always considering what is best for staff and guests. Dorothy always goes out of her way to help staff meet deadlines over and beyond the call of duty. She is a tireless worker, parent, grandparent and friend. No one deserves this award more than Dorothy Morris.
Friday, December 04, 2009 10:31 AM
I have known Dorothy since she started working at SAMMinistries. Dorothy has an incredible amount of energy and has to with all she does. She is not only the CFO of SAMMinistries, she also teaches at the local community colleges and Wayland Baptist University. Dorothy is also a mother and grandmother and spends as much time as she can with her family. When she speaks of them you can see the love she has for her family. She just beams when she talks about her grandson, her miracle baby.
Dorothy is passionate about her work and the mission of SAMMinistries. I have seen her spend countless hours preparing grants, budgets and reports. Only someone who truly believes in the ministry and the work we do would invest their time as she does. She sincerely cares about the staff, residents and guests.
Although I do not work directly with Dorothy all the time I do spend quite a bit of time during reporting season assisting with reports. I have learned so much from her and appreciate her time and patience. Dorothy has been a blessing to me and made a difference in my life.
Friday, December 04, 2009 10:47 AM
I've had the privilege of working with Dorothy since her start here at SAMMinistries. Dorothy is a very dedicated and brilliant business woman, but impresses me most with her love, passion, and dedication to her grandson. Dorothy's dedication both at work and home makes her the great person she is today, she is a great role model for any woman!
# Veronica Arroyo
Friday, December 04, 2009 11:53 AM
She is well respected and valued in our agency especially in the area of financial stewardship.
Sunday, December 06, 2009 1:05 PM
There just aren't enough comments on this page to do Dorothy justice. I expected to see hundreds when I linked in. Dorothy is extremely deserving of this award. She is an angel 24/7. She is so dedicated to our ministry and its mission. She puts 110% percent into her work. She is responsible for securing our government funding without which, we would not be able to help the 4,000 people annually we currently serve. She is also a mentor to me and many others in our ministry. She takes a personal interest in our lives and the lives of the clients we serve. She has the biggest heart of anyone I know!

She is also a college professor. She teaches accounting at night and on weekends. I'm not sure when she takes time for herself. She deserves to be recognized because I'm sure she doesn't even realize how much impact she has on those around her. At home, she takes care of her daughter and grandson who are both struggling with major health issues. Her house is filled with nurses round the clock who she considers family. She doesn't complain and she doesn't take anything for granted. She has taught me so much and I can never thank her enough!
# Maurjon D. Alston
Monday, December 07, 2009 6:08 AM
I've worked with Dorothy Morris for close to 4 years with SAMMinistries. When I think of Dorothy, one word comes to mind and that is DEDICATION. Dedication to her job duties/co-workers, family & friends. Dorothy Morris is a great asset to SAMMinistries!
Monday, December 07, 2009 6:26 AM
I have been one who has waited to post because of the struggle I have with finding the perfect words for such a amazing lady. My fear was that my words would fall short, but then I thought of Dorothy and was inspired to give it my best shot! That is what she does for me everyday- inspires!

Professionally, she is unparalled-her desire for perfection in whatever she is doing raises the bar for everyone around her. Because of her desire to improve the lives of those SAMMinistries serves, her focus on stewardship and ethics is in the forefront of her daily work.

Vocationally, she is multi-talented! Not only does she put her heart and soul into her work as CFO at SAMMinistries, but she also touches the lives of her students as a professor at local colleges. Her students love her as she also inspires and encourages them to do their best. Through her natural talent as a teacher, she is shaping the future of our community.

Personally, she is the strongest woman I know. A public forum would not be the proper place to divulge all, but she spends many nights awake watching over and taking care of her critically ill grandson; then comes into work without fail. Whenever I get to feeling a little down about circumstances in my life, all I have to do is think of Dorothy and my perspective changes.

But, her professionalism and courage aside, what I love is her wry sense of humor and her smile- she just lights up the room when she smiles!

If we could all be a little more like Dorothy, this world be a much better place!
# Judi Jones
Monday, December 07, 2009 6:29 AM
Dorothy is a leader and along with her talents and abilities to carefully run a department she brings heart. She is respected by her peers and she exemplifies a quality work ethic.
# Linda Woodruff
Monday, December 07, 2009 6:56 AM
Dorothy brings professionalism, knowledge, enthusiasm, experience, a great sense of humor and most of all HEART to our organization.
# Becky Hamann
Monday, December 07, 2009 7:54 AM
Dorothy is a woman of many talents and uses her gifts for serving others. Her compassionate heart directs her actions as she gives her best for others and encourages those around her to do the same.
# Rae Ann Reyna
Monday, December 07, 2009 9:00 AM
What else can be said that has not already been spoken! She is a person worthy of such a nomination. She brings laughter and beauty to the lives of those around her!

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