Voice of Charity

As Lent begins, we are reminded of the call to become holier, more generous people. Many saints devoted their lives to caring for the poor, the hungry, the homeless, and all who are struggling in any way. Their steadfast commitment to service inspires our efforts to continue to fulfill the mission of Catholic Charities in 2022. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes REVEREND GERARD KELLY, C.M., Chaplain of Catholic Charities to discuss how these saints can provide encouragement and motivation in our Lenten journeys today.

One of the most effective Catholic Charities sites for assisting clients with mental health concerns is The Encompassing Center, offering accessible, quality services to low-income and underinsured West Side residents. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes JENNIFER SMITH, LCPC, Program Director to discuss the many ways that The Encompassing Center has become a welcoming place of friendship and professional assistance since it opened in 2019.

Catholic Charities headquarters, at 721 N. LaSalle Street in Chicago is fortunate to have a dedicated team of employees from Monterrey Security greeting and assisting all who come through our doors, 24 hours a day. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes CHARLES WATSON, Supervisor of these professional security guards to discuss all the ways that they connect clients to various programs and services, and see the impact that Catholic Charities has in their lives.

Catholic Charities Legal Assistance Department (CCLA) is a vital part of the wrap-around services that we offer to our clients. In many cases, legal barriers are one of the main concerns that prevent people from reaching their goal of self-sufficiency. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes HILDA BAHENA, Director of CCLA, and EDWARD SOMMER, a CCLA Volunteer Attorney to discuss the many ways that Catholic Charities helps clients navigate the complex legal system to advocate for themselves and their families in legal issues.

Sister Donna Markham, OP, PhD has made a tremendous impact as President and CEO of Catholic Charities USA since she was named to this position in 2015. Regina Dominican High School, a college preparatory school for young women in Wilmette is honoring Sister Donna at the school’s Black & White Gala on March 5th. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Elizabeth Schuster, President of Regina Dominican and Joan Kitchie, Regina’s Vice-President of Institutional Advancement to discuss this special event that will underscore our valued partnerships with Catholic Charities USA and Regina Dominican High School.

A fabulous black tie, in-person event is back this winter, as Catholic Charities participates in FIRST LOOK for CHARITY, the elegant kick-off experience for the Chicago Auto Show on Friday, February 11th at McCormick Place. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Bill Montana and Marty Bredemann, Co-Chairmen of the Catholic Charities reception at First Look for Charity 2022 to discuss the importance of, and excitement for this glamorous evening as the big date nears.

In 2021, Catholic Charities was chosen by the City of Chicago’s Department of Family Support Services to be one of eight partners to start a new program called SCaN, which is designed to help youth who are most at-risk of having their lives impacted by violence. Catholic Charities was asked to coordinate the program in the Austin community, due to our success in that neighborhood with the Tolton Peace Center. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Carla Gutierrez, Department Director of Catholic Charities Youth Counseling Department, and Tashika Eubanks, SCaN Program Supervisor to discuss the positive impact SCaN is having already in Chicago.

Catholic Charities is very fortunate to have employees who have dedicated themselves to the mission of the agency over many years. In some cases, they have experience as clients, volunteers and dedicated staff members, sharing their talents to help people of all ages through challenging times in their lives. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Petra Gutierrez, Senior Center Manager, North Center Senior Center who is one of these extraordinary longtime Catholic Charities employees.

Catholic Charities’ Lake County Region has had an incredibly busy year, serving an increased number of clients and adding programs and services to its new, second regional office. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Maureen Murphy, Associate Vice-President of Family and Support Services to discuss how Catholic Charities has adapted and expanded its service options in many positive ways to respond to the emerging needs of families in Lake County.

On January 29, Catholic Charities 21st Annual D’Vine Affair event offers wine and craft beer enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy a wonderful virtual evening together in support of our single-parent families who are striving for greater self-sufficiency. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Joseph Glunz Jr., President of Glunz Wines Import & Distribution House, and Donna Drinka, Program Director of Catholic Charities Community Casework Department to discuss this fabulous virtual event, and the ways the Family Self-Sufficiency Program is stabilizing families and enhancing the communities in which they live.

As the world gets ready to ring in a New Year, Catholic Charities looks back on 2021 with gratitude for all that has been accomplished, despite the ongoing impact of the pandemic on our work. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes two members of Catholic Charities Executive Leadership Team, AMI NOVORYTA, Chief Program Officer and GINA CLEGGS, Senior Vice-President of Operations and Innovations to discuss the Year In Review and the agency’s hopes for 2022 under the leadership of our President and CEO, Sally Blount.

It’s Christmas week, and as we all wait in awe and anticipation for the birth of Jesus, we look forward to time with loved ones in celebrating this blessed, holy day. As families prepare to break out familiar Christmas carols this week, we take a new look at a familiar Christmas song in Catholic Charities’ “Twelve Ideas For Christmas.” Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda for this special Christmas show.

One of the best things about living in Chicago is the change of seasons. But in December, the change of seasons can be dreaded by those who do not have the funds for, or access to warm clothing. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Sharon Tillmon, Department Director of Catholic Charities Family Stabilization Services to discuss the vital role that our Clothing Rooms play in our wrap-around services to help clients stay warm in the winter, and reach their greatest possible levels of self-sufficiency.

Besides the Nativity of our Lord, there are two very special feast days in December that feature Our Blessed Mother: The Feast of the Immaculate Conception and The Feast of our Lady of Guadalupe. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Reverend Gerard Kelly, C.M., Chaplain of Catholic Charities to explain the importance of these feast days and discuss how both days give us great reason for hope, even as the effects of the pandemic continue to present challenges for all.

Throughout its history, Catholic Charities has been tremendously fortunate to have caring corporate partners, benefactors, trusted advisors and volunteers who believe in the mission of the agency as much as our leaders and employees do. When all of the members of one family fill all of these roles, we are especially blessed, and grateful. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Emile, Shari, Andrew and Caitlin Johnson to discuss their many contributions to the work of Catholic Charities, and their family ethos about giving back that inspires many people.

Catholic Charities is delighted to welcome guests back into 721 N. LaSalle Street on Thursday, November 25th, for the traditional Thanksgiving Day luncheon. This is one of our many efforts to continue to fight hunger and celebrate the holidays with our guests. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Andrew McKernin, Manager of Volunteer Relations, and Sharon Holmes, Supervisor of our eight Food Pantries to discuss how Catholic Charities will be offering a safe and festive Thanksgiving Day meal. We also will discuss the challenges of keeping Catholic Charities food pantries stocked over the winter months, and easy, very helpful ways that the public can support those who are facing food insecurity.

Catholic Charities St. Nicholas Ball is among the largest, most glamorous events of the Christmas season in Chicago! Benefactors, families and friends look forward each year to this gala that raises crucial funds for our programs and services. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Angel Gutierrez, Vice President of Institutional Advancement, along with the 2021 Co-Christmas Gift CoordinatorS of Lake County, Steve and Christy King to preview this fabulous evening, and the ways that the work of Catholic Charities in Cook and Lake counties leads the way for the planning of the St. Nicholas Ball.

Are you looking for a way to make your Christmas season especially meaningful this year? Look no further than Catholic Charities 74th Annual Celebration of Giving! Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Jim Wogan, Barbara Campbell and Diane Kennedy to learn more about the 2021 Celebration of Giving and discuss how this joy-filled tradition unites individuals and families, colleagues, neighbors, and strangers, spreading Christmas cheer throughout Cook and Lake counties.

In 1947, parents who adopted children from St. Vincent’s Orphanage in Chicago joined together to purchase gifts for children who had not yet been adopted. Today, in the same building, at 721 N. LaSalle Street, Catholic Charities continues this heartwarming tradition of providing gifts to those who would otherwise have nothing to open Christmas Day. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Emily Lewis and Judy Kendzior to discuss how The Celebration of Giving connects, and brings joy to thousands of individuals and families throughout Chicago and its suburbs each year.

One of the greatest concerns for low-income residents in Cook and Lake is having a safe, affordable place to call home. Today, Catholic Charities has twenty-three residences that address this, by offering qualifying individuals the opportunity for independent living within caring communities. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Antwaun Smith, Associate Vice-President for Housing Services to discuss the cooperative spirit that exists between staff and tenants to make each residence much more than Affordable Housing.

Caring adults make all the difference in the lives of adolescents. Catholic Charities understands this, and our Youth Mentorship Programs provide a free opportunity for youth living in Lake and Cook counties to spend time with volunteers who genuinely care about them. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Sarah Loffman, Arranda Gardner, and Gloria Uriostegui to discuss how these programs nurture healthy friendships between youth and great role models.

As one of the largest human services organizations in the Midwest, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago assists hundreds of immigrants and refugees each year, accompanying them on their journey to becoming as self-sufficient as possible. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Nancy Gavilanes, Director of Catholic Charities Immigration & Naturalization Services to discuss how Catholic Charities helps immigrants and refugees navigate complex legal issues, employment concerns and family adjustments as they establish new lives in Chicago.

Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Services department has seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking assistance over the past year, with the pandemic creating anxiety, fear and uncertainty worldwide. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Hector Rivera, Senior Department of the Youth Counseling Department, and Michel Lopez-Tinoco, Clinical Manager, Youth & Family Therapeutic Services Program, who will share an update on their programs that are trying to help individuals and families establish positive mental health strategies for life.

While all of Catholic Charities programs and services are life-affirming, the Roseland Adolescent Parenting Program is especially designed to support unborn children, and children up to age 3, along with their mothers. RAPP helps young women grow in their skills as competent, educated mothers, which helps them fulfill their goals of happier, more stable lives. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Shavon Parker, RAPP Program Director, and Jessica Allen Porter, RAPP Program Supervisor to discuss how RAPP is helping to build strong communities, one family at a time.

All are cordially invited to join Team Catholic Charities in the 2021 AIDS Walk/Run on October 2nd. It is easier than ever to participate this year. HIV/AIDS continue to affect the lives of 45,000 people in Illinois, and 90% of the proceeds raised from our team participation will go directly towards Catholic Charities programs and services that support people struggling with these debilitating conditions. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Ashley Styx, Program Director for Community Casework in Lake County to preview this special event.

For 91 years, Catholic Charities headquarters at 721 N. LaSalle Street was the site of St. Vincent’s Orphanage, a loving home for children, and unwed mothers run by the Daughters of Charity. Catholic Charities Post-Adoption Services continues to receive inquiries regularly from adults who were adopted from St. Vincent’s, as more and more people become interested in their ancestry. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Julie Ryan McGue and Lisa Francis to discuss Julie’s inspiring journey, with her twin sister, pursuing information on their own family heritage.

Catholic Charities Latino Affairs promotes our programs and services to Latino/Latinx residents in Cook and Lake counties, through community outreach and education. In recent months, these efforts have expanded, internationally, in support of COVID-19 vaccinations. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Cary Rositas-Sheftel, Ph.D., Director of Catholic Charities Latino/Latinx Affairs to discuss the innovative ways her department continues to respond to the needs of the Latino community as the pandemic evolves.

For more than 40 years, Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement Program has been a beacon of hope in the lives of refugees who are starting their lives over in Chicago, after fleeing persecution in their home countries. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes ELMIDA KULOVIC, Director of Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement Program to discuss the status of the program this summer, and the many ways Catholic Charities works to ease the burdens of our refugee neighbors.

In recent months, a primary goal for Catholic Charities South and Southwest Regions has been to reconnect in-person with clients, whenever possible to listen and offer assistance to them. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Regional Director Christopher Torres, Project Manager Carol Petersen and Advisory Board Member Christine Collins to discuss this, and other great things happening in Catholic Charities South & Southwest Regions this summer, in support of our clients.

Catholic Charities has a long history of serving veterans in need. Today, our veteran services include a comprehensive program to help veterans find and maintain employment, through job readiness training, resume writing assistance, mock interviews, and job placement counseling. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Bernie Gresham and Mitch Siegel to discuss how Catholic Charities is helping veterans achieve their career goals in Cook and Lake counties.

Noreen Russo has worked at Catholic Charities for 15 years. Rising to leadership positions in a number of key service areas, Noreen always has her focus on clients’ immediate needs, and working with colleagues across the agency to offer clients hope for a brighter future. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Noreen Russo, Associate Director of Board Relations and Mission Engagement to discuss her many contributions toward furthering the mission of Catholic Charities.

Seniors are very important to us at Catholic Charities. We continue to listen to the needs expressed by our seniors, and respond with comprehensive services that help seniors live independently and access additional resources, as needed, in their homes and communities. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Mary Ann Bibat, Catholic Charities Vice-President, Senior Services to discuss how our senior programs continue to enhance the lives of seniors throughout Cook and Lake counties.

Catholic Charities Tuesday Night Suppers offer guests the opportunity to come to 721 N. LaSalle Street and be served a hot meal. Many of these guests are homeless or nearly homeless. Due to our wonderful restaurant partners and some incredibly dedicated volunteers, the Tuesday Night Suppers continued every week throughout the pandemic, on a To-Go basis. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Program Manager Emily Lewis & volunteer Peggy White to discuss how the Tuesday Night Suppers keep offering nutritious meals, and friendship to our neighbors whom we have the privilege to serve.

LOSS is a Catholic Charities non-denominational program that supports individuals who are grieving the loss of a loved one by suicide. For more than 40 years, LOSS has been offering a safe, non-judgmental environment where survivors can find community, direction and resources for healing. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Deborah Major and Emily Tegenkamp to discuss how the LOSS program was able to stay connected, and provide support to the entire LOSS Family throughout the pandemic.

Catholic Charities programs operate throughout Cook and Lake counties under the direction of six regional directors. They have worked tirelessly over the past year to keep their vital services going for people in need. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Adriana Kelly, Director of Catholic Charities North & Northwest Suburban Regional Office, to discuss recent developments serving clients in the North Suburban and the Far North City areas of Cook County.

Catholic Charities Child Care Programs offer a safe, educational environment for children to come to, often while their parents are at work. At these centers, our primary population of low-income, working mothers find much-needed Child Care assistance, and have the opportunity to learn about Catholic Charities Case Management that can help them as they strive for greater self-sufficiency. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Diane Rodriguez to discuss how the Child Care centers are faring after the pandemic, and the new opportunities that they are offering this summer.

The Voice of Charity is delighted to welcome back several Home Depot executives who have generously donated materials, and volunteer efforts this spring to completely renovate the landscaping at Catholic Charities House of Good Shepherd, our domestic violence shelter for women and children who have escaped unsafe circumstances in their homes. Join Katie Bredemann as he/she welcomes Gary Hutchinson, Joe Dandan and HGS Development Director Nancy Haws to discuss the impact of this wonderful project, and how giving back to the community is inherent in the Home Depot corporate philosophy.

Catholic Charities St. Leo Campus for Veterans is a safe, supportive housing option for veterans in the Auburn Gresham Community. St. Leo’s is just one of the ways Catholic Charities offers support to the 20,000 veterans who come to us for assistance each year, as they work to become as self-sufficient as possible. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes David Dempsey, Program Director for St. Leo’s and Kimberly Brown, a veteran and St. Leo’s resident to discuss the ways in which St. Leo’s has continued to help veterans and their families this year.

For nineteen years, Catholic Charities After Supper Visions program has been helping vulnerable individuals in Chicago grow in their skills as photographers. Incredible talent that has been discovered, and all who participate find support and encouragement from dedicated volunteers. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Fr. Wayne Watts, Associate Administrator for Catholic Charities and Noreen Russo, Associate Director of Mission Engagement to preview a very special After Supper Visions virtual event on Friday, June 4th celebrating all of the artists’ achievements.

The 27th Annual Charities Golf Classic will be held July 19. This popular all-day gathering raises critical funds for Catholic Charities Lake County programs and services, which assist more than 60,000 residents each year. Join guest host Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Matt Davis and Ashley Styx to preview the golf outing, and discuss how the event proceeds will be used to respond to the needs of clients who are struggling more than ever this year.

We conclude our 3-part series on MOTHERHOOD today with a first-hand account of the plight of mothers who are coming to Catholic Charities Food Pantries for assistance this year. Family Stabilization Supervisor Sharon Holmes has made many adjustments to keep eight Catholic Charities Food Pantries in Chicago operating to their greatest possible extent throughout the pandemic. Join Brigid Murphy as she welcomes Sharon to discuss how the Food Pantries are currently doing, and Sharon will share stories of courage and resilience from the mothers she has met this year.

Our 3-part series on MOTHERHOOD continues with this special program focused on the encouragement, peace, and love provided to this, and all generations, by the greatest mother of all: The Blessed Virgin Mary. Join Brigid Murphy as she welcomes Reverend Gerard Kelly, C.M., Chaplain of Catholic Charities to discuss how Our Lady’s life on earth, and Her guidance from heaven offer tremendous inspiration to all mothers, fathers, and all who seek Her presence in their lives.

The Voice of Charity begins a three-part series celebrating MOTHERHOOD with a special show recognizing Catholic Charities Arts of Living Program. As one of the longest-running programs at the agency, the Arts of Living uses HOME VISITS to help expectant mothers, and mothers of children 0-3 by providing education, guidance and support with basic needs as they work toward greater stability in their lives. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Arts of Living Program Director Constance Upton, and Program Supervisor Danyelle Sloss to discuss the short, and long-term benefits of HOME VISITS during these formative years for all of the participants in this program.

In recent weeks, Catholic Charities has been working with numerous civic and health partners to host ten vaccination events in Chicago and its suburbs, with additional events planned soon. These events often have been in communities that have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Catholic Charities Southwest Regional Director Marilu Gonzalez to discuss the positive impact that these vaccination events have had, and teamwork that has made them possible.

Catholic Charities is working with Governors State University to broadcast an important virtual conversation on April 9 regarding the prevalence of human trafficking in the Chicago area. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Nancy Mott, a Catholic Charities volunteer, dedicated parishioner, and Certified Illinois Domestic Violence Professional to discuss how religious and secular groups across Chicagoland are helping victims and joining together to stop the spread of these crimes of exploitation.

Catholic Charities Junior Board is comprised of caring young professionals who give of their time, talent and treasure to further the mission of the agency. The Junior Board has stayed very active during the pandemic, working in warehouse food distribution, tutoring, and organizing groundbreaking virtual gatherings, such as the Racial Equity Book Club. Join Brigid Murphy as she welcomes Noreen Russo and Gracie Covarrubias to discuss recent Junior Board initiatives and plans for the rest of this year.

Across the nation, mental health experts have seen a significant increase in the number of people seeking relief from COVID-related concerns such as anxiety, depression, and grief. The Encompassing Center is Chicago is making a positive impact in many people’s lives, offering mental health, substance use programs, and assistance with basic needs to residents of Chicago’s Near West Wise. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Jennifer Smith, Program Director to discuss how The Encompassing Center is all about wellness, and treating guests with respect and dignity.

Catholic Charities was recently awarded a grant from the City of Chicago’s Department of Family and Support Services to be one of eight service providers implementing the new Service Coordination and Navigation (SCaN) program to reduce violence in Chicago. Catholic Charities work will be in the Austin community where our Tolton Peace Center opened in 2018. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Associate Vice-President Laura Kuever to discuss how SCaN recognizes the importance of a caring adult in a youth’s life, and is structured accordingly, to help lead youth toward safer, successful lives.

In recent weeks, Catholic Charities of Lake County has welcomed two new leaders to its executive team, and the new Schreiber Center for Human Services has increased its programming. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Thomas Powers, new Chairman of the Lake County Board of Advisors, and Kristen Flanagan, Lake County Regional Project Manager to discuss how Catholic Charities in Lake County continues to innovate and work with community partners to address urgent needs of vulnerable residents.

Amate House and the Jesuit Volunteer MAGIS program at Loyola University offer caring young adults the opportunity to gain valuable leadership and service experience while they live in Chicago with other program participants. Catholic Charities is one of the not-for-profit agencies where these young adults volunteer, to learn more about social work and fulfill their program requirements. Join Marie Jochum and Brigid Murphy as they welcome Lauren Jhin and Katie Athis to discuss the many ways their program experiences have expanded their knowledge, of themselves, and of the world.