By Shawn Carney
Executive Director of Catholic Charities
As we commemorate “Catholic Charities Sunday” in the Diocese of Madison on Sept. 29, I am filled with immense gratitude for the unwavering support and dedication of our incredible community. Today, we honor and thank our employees, volunteers, donors, and all who champion the mission of Catholic Charities.
Inspired by the teachings of Christ and guided by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching, we strive to uphold the dignity of every person and to be a beacon of hope and love in our community. Earlier this summer, we launched an awareness campaign in conjunction with Catholic Charities USA under the theme, “We Are There.” It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our organization and the underlying message of our mission, which is: “To demonstrate Christ’s love and justice by caring in faith for the human family.”
Together, the campaign theme and our mission are a testament to the countless ways Catholic Charities stands by those in need, offering hope, compassion, and tangible assistance. Whether it’s providing food and shelter, offering support and respite, or simply being a comforting presence, we are there for the people we serve in our diocese every step of the way.
None of this happens in a vacuum. It’s the collective effort of thousands of people from across the diocese who support our work, day in and day out. Today, we give thanks to every one of them.
To our employees, your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment are the backbone of our mission. Your dedication to serving others, often going above and beyond, is truly inspiring. You are the heart and soul of Catholic Charities, and your work makes a profound difference in the lives of so many. Through your efforts, we were able to provide essential services to more than 19,200 individuals in 2023.
To our volunteers, your generosity of time and spirit is invaluable. You bring light and hope to those who need it most, and your selfless service is a beacon of kindness in our communities. We are deeply grateful for your contributions and the positive impact you make every day. Last year alone, our volunteers contributed more than 25,000 hours of service in carrying out our mission.
To our donors, your financial support enables us to continue our vital work. Your generosity ensures that we can provide essential services and support to those in need. We are profoundly thankful for your trust and belief in our mission.
And to all who support Catholic Charities, whether through advocacy, prayer, or spreading awareness, your efforts are deeply appreciated. Together, we create a network of care and compassion that reaches far and wide, embodying the true essence of “We Are There.”
As we reflect on the impact of our collective efforts, let us continue to stand together, united in our mission to serve and uplift those in need. Thank you for being an integral part of Catholic Charities. Your support and dedication are the driving force behind our success, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.
Shawn Carney is the executive director of Catholic Charities Diocese of Madison, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization which serves as the charitable arm of the Diocese of Madison by providing a broad array of social services. Since 1946, Catholic Charities has supported individuals and families in need, regardless of their faith or beliefs, and empowers them to live a fulfilling and dignified life. Catholic Charities’ mission is to demonstrate Christ’s love and justice by caring in faith for the human family.
