Last year, Catholic Charities completed its strategic planning process, which included strengthening our connection with our parishes through the implementation of a new organizational plan focused on a parish-based service model.

After nearly one year using this new approach, we have seen a renewed spirit and enthusiastic participation at the parish level. In the first half of 2008, we are pleased to report that Catholic Charities services have assisted individuals and families from more than half of the parishes in our 130-parish diocese.

Certainly this new service model has had its challenges, especially for directors and staff who are making every effort to respond quickly to the many requests from across the 19-county diocese. They have traveled many miles to help parishes implement programs and services specific to the needs of their parish communities. Though the days are long and time often seems short, they never lack for compassion and commitment to address the issues facing so many of us today.

Together, we continue to respond to flood victims; provide adoption services for wanting parents; help students stay in school through our Truancy Intitiative; reach out to our rural communities with social concerns committees and presentations; and many, many others.

We encourage you to use our new Web site as the forum to learn more about how we are providing hope through helping others. Please check back often for news from across our diocese and events in your community that might benefit your parish, family, friends and neighbors. We are here, ready to help, and want to keep you updated about our many programs and services.

Thank you for your prayers and understanding throughout the past year and into the future. We continue to be strong today because our people make us strong. Through the efforts of our staff and our many volunteers, we will continue to carry out Christ’s mission with His love, spirit and guidance.