For its largest annual fundraiser at The Barn at Villa Venezia in Goshen, Catholic Charities of Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster counties returned to an in-person celebration for the first time in three years The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Caritas Awards to community-minded individuals and organizations who embody Catholic Charities”™ mission to provide help and create hope. The recipients were the Newburgh Armory Unity Center; Pastor Fernando Salazar; Frito-Lay/Popcorners; and Dr. Dean Scher, retired Catholic Charities CEO.
Master of Ceremonies was Thomas Larsen, Catholic Charities board member and senior vice president of government and public relations for Mediacom Communications.
Catholic Charities CEO Shannon Kelly said, “Hope is at the heart of Catholic Charities mission ”“ we provide help and create hope for our neighbors in need. Despite difficult times, our agency helped more than 36,000 individuals and families last year, regardless of religion or ability to pay. We have provided food, shelter and respite from the cold and offered lifesaving drug and alcohol addiction and recovery support to those who are struggling. Our team is dedicated to ensuring those in need know they”™re not alone and help is available.” The event was Catholic Charities”™ largest fundraiser, grossing more than $107,000.
