Chronicles Summer 2023

Jacksonville

Chronicles Summer 2023

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 75 YEARS ENGLISH FOR SPEAKER OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL) A program that improves language proficiency of students whose native language is not English.

CAMP I AM SPECIAL

REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT

This program gives campers the choice to participate in numerous daily activities that allow them to stretch their abilities and enjoy the company of others.

We provide resources to refugees of all nationalities who resettle in Jacksonville. Our specialists help our new neighbors to become self-sufficient in their new community.

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Summer 2023

A NOTE FROM OUR REGIONAL DIRECTOR

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he agency is close to wrapping up our 2022-2023 fiscal year. July 1, 2023, earmarks the beginning of our NEW 2023-2024 fiscal year.

Many “new” beginnings will evolve this year including a new board of advisors, new programs, and new agency staff.

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Lori Weber Regional Director

It’s such a great experience to work with our team!

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s we internally prepare to re-define our annual strategy, the agency’s leadership has been actively working toward identifying our strengths, weaknesses, focus, and how we work together toward fulfilling our mission of transforming lives in 2023-2024.

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he result of our focused efforts illuminated a path that

Transformative Work Catholic Charities Jacksonville.

Transforming Lives. A nice, catchy slogan, right? Does it tell the story of Catholic Charities Jacksonville? To most of us, it’s just a couple of words. But to the real families that have been touched and have benefited from programs such as: Bert Costa Board Chair

* Feed a Family * Refugee Program * Emergency Financial Assistance * Camp I Am Special * ESOL * Immigration Legal Services

The words are as real as the transformation they experience. Many hands are needed to transform lives. CCBJax staff, the leadership, the volunteers and donors all play an integral role in the process; all should be proud of the work they do in our community.

I have been blessed to serve on the Board of Advisors for number of years, I’ve had a bird’s eye view of the impact this organization makes in Northeast Florida.

There is much more work to do!

Many thanks to all of you for your role in Transforming Lives!

interdepartmentally came together seamlessly. We realized that by cohesively articulating our roles and determining where we overlap, need to support each other and identify skills we have that no one knew we had, we inadvertently uncovered what it means for us to successfully lead. We learned that we all believe that LEADING is about service and that LEADING others is a privilege that is EARNED, not a right. The golden rule of leadership is a common thread between us and we all united and agreed to keep its meaning front and center – as our guidepost – to remind us always of how together, we can accomplish great things. We’re not perfect, but Continue page 3

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

A NOTE FROM OUR REGIONAL DIRECTOR - continued

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we’re grounded in the pursuit of doing our best.

powerful motivator. Inclusivity breeds achievement and happiness.

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ur planning exercises and process also illuminated something more than any of us expected. A unity, common goals, and shared methodologies and beliefs that when embodied by us all, and shared with our colleagues, stakeholders, and clients, is a

atholic Charities Jacksonville has accomplished great things in 2022-2023’s fiscal year, including surpassing numerous strategic goals planned for 2025. We haven’t moved forward without setbacks, but in the end, pushed through adversity to serve our clients.

am so proud of our staff, volunteers, board members, donors, partners – and the list goes on. The agency benefits beyond measure from ALL their support and generosity. We embrace the transcendental values of embodying truth, beauty, and goodness. In all we do, our agency efforts begin with these values in mind, and we continue our work into the new fiscal year, with hope, determination and gumption to transform lives the best way we know how – by serving the client, those most vulnerable in our community, advocating for justice, human dignity and quality of life while reflecting the compassion of God in Christ.

2022 Average annual income of recipients: $11,948

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE E

for financial training to meet their individual needs.

mergency Assistance Specialists serve an educational role, helping play a critical role in providing clients to identify the factors or ur Specialists are dedicated support to individuals and families events that led to their need for to preserving case files who are facing financial crises assistance. They work with each with supporting documentation that could lead to homelessness. client to create a Housing Stability and storing data in client data These specialists are responsible Plan that includes SMART goals management systems such as for collecting and reviewing the and action steps with target dates Efforts to Outcomes (ETO) and the necessary documentation to for completion. They also evaluate local HMIS, Client Track. Through determine the client’s eligibility for the financial literacy of each client their work, they also help to provide emergency assistance. They work and provide appropriate referrals crucial support and resources to closely with landlords vulnerable populations, October 2022 - February 2023 and mortgagors to ensuring that they maintain prevent eviction and housing stability and process requests for prevent homelessness.

Housing Supportive short-term financial But the work continues Opportunities Services aid. to evolve. Even now for Persons for Veteran Daphne (Program Director) with AIDS/HIV Families Community n addition to their is working to improve Served (SSVF) Grant administrative tasks, and modernize the EA 251 people Served Served Emergency Assistance program to assist clients in 99 homes 176 people 117 people Specialists also achieving long-term self102 homes 47 homes sufficiency.

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

WELCOMING THE STRANGER: The importance of Compassionate Refugee Resettlement

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atholic Charities Jacksonville, a local nonprofit serving people of all faiths and backgrounds, has been helping refugees from Ukraine since the war began last year. Catholic Charities works closely in partnership with the federal government and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to ensure we are up to date on how many refugees to expect at any given time. Our team has been working hard to assist refugees from not only Ukraine but many other countries over the last year. Refugees who are invited into the U.S. are grateful to escape violence and persecution, but even after overcoming challenges in their home countries, they still face significant hurdles when they arrive. These include Cultural and language barriers, Lack of necessary resources, Difficulty finding employment, Challenges in finding affordable housing, Transportation difficulties.

Through the resettlement process, Catholic Charities works to ensure that each refugee family has a safe place to live, with a furnished apartment, food, and living staples waiting for them when they arrive. Then, our team picks up the refugees from the airport, serving as their first introduction to our country and our city. After

helping families settle into their new homes, we also assist in connecting refugees with core services such as: • English language classes • Employment services • Application for benefits • Social security card • Health screenings • Plus, countless wraparound services to help refugees achieve self-sufficiency.

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ur organization’s role in welcoming refugees is bigger than being a friendly face at the airport when we pick them up – our team is dedicated to giving refugees the tools they need to start fresh lives in our country and become selfsustainable, fulfilled members of our community. We connect with refugees on a personal level and work to connect them with other refugees who understand exactly what they’re going through. But we also help them get used to the many cultural differences as well as give them a safe space to share and connect with each other to talk about these differences. We have seen such an incredible outpouring of support from our community that is very heartwarming and helps reassure our refugees that they are safe, welcome, and supported here in the U.S.

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

WELCOMING THE STRANGER:

program (PC-Afghan) which Afghanis will receive services through this program.

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he best way to make an immediate impact is through financial support so that our team can purchase the most pressing items needed for families.

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eeing these people start a new chapter of their life is the most amazing feeling. We have seen feared faces but seeing them after a while in the USA, they are different individuals.

They are successful individuals with a job, a safe home, and a stable life.

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e have served 429 Ukrainians for FY2022, and we have enrolled 300 Ukrainians for the FY2023, and we are planning to enroll 675 Ukrainian for FY2023. We

have served 92 individuals through our Reception and Placement program for FY2022, and we will serve 200 individuals for FY2023. We have a few programs available for Refugees, Afghan Parolees, and Ukrainians Parolees, and some programs available for approved asylees only.

e are currently taking donations both at the Catholic Charities Jacksonville regional office (40 E Adams St, #300) and at the Providence Center (134 E Church Street) Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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e are also accepting volunteers and in-kind donations. Those interested can visit CCBJax.org for more information.

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he programs includes Reception and Placement services, employment services, Immigration and ESOL classes.

We have been granted another

Hellai Noorzai Director of Refugee and Immigration

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Summer 2023

FOOD PROGRAM But So Much More...

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h, how I love hearing about the incredible impact of The Food Program! What began as a simple food pantry has grown into a vital lifeline for so many individuals and families in Northeast Florida. This program ensures that those who are experiencing food insecurity have access to nutritious meals, and with over 20% of the population in this area facing this challenge, it’s crucial.

staff members, and five associates work tirelessly to get the lines moving for walk-ups first and then those in cars. People come with rolling suitcases to transport their groceries home, and it’s all thanks to the support of our donors. The program provides fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, eggs, and milk, ensuring that those in need receive the nourishment they require.

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very day, the preparations for food distribution start the day before, with volunteers and staff coming together to prepare over 80 sets of bags filled with essential nutrition. On the day of distribution, the atmosphere is electric as everyone works together to ensure that those in need receive the help they require. People start arriving before 7 am, even though distribution doesn’t begin until 10:00 am, with all 80 tickets distributed by 8:30 am. s I witness this program in action, I’m in awe of the process in place, ensuring that resources are stewarded wisely. Recipients are screened through a database to verify their eligibility, and they’re only allowed to participate once every two weeks. When it’s time for distribution, the eight volunteers, two

had the pleasure of speaking with two ladies who received food delivery due to their failing health, and they shared how they feel so blessed. And if they have more than they need, they share their excess food with neighbors who have less. WHO HAVE LESS. This act of kindness reminds me of the beauty of Christ’s love and how we can all make a difference in each other’s lives. owever, not all mornings go as planned, and many people must be turned away due to the overwhelming demand for food. It’s heartbreaking to see how many people in our community have so little, but Catholic Charities Jacksonville’s Food Program is doing everything we can to make a difference. Thanks to faithful donors, food is

Susie E. Tolbert Backpack Program Serving more than 300 meals weekly $15 = One child Weekly

Manor Seniors Program Serving More Than 115 meals to Seniors Every Month

“Thank you! I really like my bag even when you put a can of green beans in there. That way my whole family can share my bag.”

- student

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

HELP FIGHT LOCAL HUNGER

Summer 2023

Scan the QR Code.

As thousands of First Coast families continue struggling to make ends meet, Catholic Charities Jacksonville has continued to be a resource for our most vulnerable neighbors.

We provide fresh food to more than 140 families per week and now offer two new programs to reach food-insecure children and low-income seniors.

But we need your help. Please support our current Feed a Family campaign, which aims to raise $100,000 to provide nutritious food to local families.

Donate today at ccbjax.org/feedafamily.

delivered to senior living facilities, schools, and remote locations, ensuring that those who need it most receive the help they require.

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our contributions in support of Catholic Charities Jacksonville have made the Food Program the gold standard in food distribution for the needy in Northeast Florida. The program’s success is due to the hard work and dedication of our partners, volunteers, and staff, who ensure that food is

To make a donation text the keyword “CCBJax” to 801801

available to those who need it. Thank you for your unwavering support in answering the needs of our community. If you’d like to volunteer or support Catholic Charities, please reach out to Angela at ayastrebova@CCBJax.org. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Backpack Program

3 Locations Monthly 641 children & teens. =3,846 meals

Senior Living Program

2 Locations Monthly 115 Seniors served

Weekend Food Distribution

Warehouse Distribution

7 Locations 3 Locations monthly 570 Individuals served monthly

1 Location 260 Walk-ups monthly 390 Drive-through monthly

Video About Our Food Program

Serves 3 Locations Monthly 550 Individuals Monthly 14,700 Families annually

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Jacksonville

Board of Advisors 2023 - 2024 Officers Board Chair Bert Cost Chair Elect Musa Farmand Chair Emeritus Chris Butler Secretary Valeria Gonzalez-Kerr Treasurer Mike Roberstons Members Gregory Montana Shannon Shea Rob Kowkabany Staci Duncan Father Andy Blaszkowski Barbara Bredehoeft Sandra Madigan Dr. Steven Bateh Arturo Ancayan Fred Schloth We express our heartfelt gratitude to the board members for their dedicated service over the past year. Your tireless efforts and contributions have made a significant impact, and we are truly grateful for your commitment. Thank you once again for your invaluable service.

TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH GENEROSITY Philanthropy: The Greek root may be literally translated as “Loving People”

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hilanthropy is a powerful force that can transform communities and change lives.

At Catholic Charities, we rely on the generosity of donors and volunteers to continue our mission of serving the most vulnerable members of society.

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he needs at Catholic Charities are many and varied, from providing food, offering support services to families in crisis, Emergency Assistance, to citizenship, and refugee resettlement. We also assist with life skills, education and healthcare, and other critical needs that help people achieve self-sufficiency and independence.

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he importance of philanthropy cannot be overstated, as it allows us to expand our reach and provide vital services to those who need them most. Without the support of you, our donors, we would not be able to fulfill our mission and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.

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e are incredibly grateful for the support we receive from our donors and volunteers. Their generosity and compassion inspire us every day, and we are constantly humbled by their dedication to our mission. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or other forms of support, every contribution makes a difference and helps us to continue our vital work.

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atholic Charities recognizes philanthropy’s importance and its incredible impact on our communities. We are deeply grateful for the support we receive and remain committed to serving those in need with compassion, respect, and dignity.

Cliff Thomas Senior Director of MarCon and Development

Divine Society Platinum Members Seth and Kathleen Pajcic We feel so blessed to be able to support Catholic Charities – especially the vital assistance they provide to refugees and immigrants who come to our community from war-torn and impoverished places from around the globe to build a new life in the United States. The support provided by Catholic Charities allows an easier transition as they start their new lives in a new country.

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Summer 2023

Black and White Soriee Sponsors Assumption Catholic Church Black Knight & Sandra Madigan L.J.C. Fund Fidelity National Financial Holy Family Catholic Church Madigan Craft & Custom St. John - Paul II Nocatee Kathy Akel Watson Realty St. Luke Catholic Church Marshall Dennehey Wire Mesh Corporation

Catholic Charities Jacksonville has put our faith into action to serve the most vulnerable in our community for more than 75 years. Our programs rely on financial support from corporate sponsors and individuals who come together to provide more than $1 million each year to Transform Lives.

Catholic Charities Jacksonville is grateful to be supported by the Divine Society, an exclusive sustainer society formed to engage and celebrate our donors.

The Divine Society has provided a way for our most involved contributors to collectively support our programs in a deeper way, allowing us to surpass our goals and supporting our team as we served 28,924 clients last year.

Jacksonville

For more information about our Divine Society please reach out to Catholic Charities Jacksonville’s Development Department. 904.899.5505

You Are Invited: NETWORKING FOR A CAUSE Are you looking for an opportunity to engage with other professionals? This is an excellent opportunity to meet and connect with like-minded individuals while learning about Catholic Charities Jacksonville. Then join us for our Networking for a Cause on May 18, 2023, from 5:30-7:30 pm.

Rooftop Garden Appetizers Beer and Wine Door Prizes We look forward to seeing you. If you have questions about the event, please send an email to development@ccbjax.org.

Please RSVP to this email to confirm your attendance.

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Black & White April 20th, 2024 Each Spring CCBJax hosts our greatest event of the year. Though it has evolved over time, it is the “Flagship” event of CCBJax. This coming Black and White will continue its tradition of hosting a great event while raising funds for those most in need.

Cha mpi o n s of Ch a r i t y

Visionary Round-table

A dinner event hosted by a friend of Catholic Charities Jacksonville, at their residence.

Hosts are encouraged to invite close friends or colleagues to attend the informative dinner.

There will be a short program to share with guests our impactful work and how attendees can help Transform Lives in our community.

Donors, Divine Society members, volunteers, and board members both past and present are invited to attend one of four luncheons. As the name suggests this is a conversational luncheon where key stakeholders can hear of current work and share their hopes, concerns, and their vision for the future.

Community

Charity Challenge An evening filled with fun and games. Schools, parishes, and businesses are encouraged to purchase a table to compete for prizes and pride while supporting CCBJax at the same time.

Networking for a Cause

Grillapalooza You may have heard of “Christmas in July”, now we have Grallapalooza.” A time to grill hotdogs and hamburgers outside on the rooftop courtyard. Why not enjoy the great weather Florida offers in December and spend time with those who share a common vision to help those in need.

Networking for a Cause is simply that. A time for professionals of all ages to meet other professionals - network- and learn about the opportunities for service and needs.

The Charitable Heart

Chronicles

Our monthly newsletter has an updated look and name. The purpose is to inform stakeholders of current impact, opportunities, and needs. This newsletter will be sent 10 times throughout the year,

Chronicles has changed throughout the years and is now only offered digitally and sent twice a year rather than four times. This avenue gives CCBJax a platform to share the success of our work in a deeper more personal way.

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

SPONSORSHIP OPPORT UNIT IES

This is an incredible opportunity for any business or individual who wants to make a meaningful impact in our community. As we gear up for a year of exciting events, we are thrilled to offer exclusive sponsorship opportunities for each one. By becoming a sponsor, you'll not only be supporting Catholic Charities Jacksonville, but you'll also receive special recognition for your contribution and be able to showcase your connection to our organization's mission and values.

Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of something truly special - become a sponsor today!

Champions of Charity: A dinner event hosted by a friend of Catholic Charities at their residence.

Sponsorship: $2,000 for each dinner: total of three Dinner Host: October 21st: Reserved Second Dinner Host February 24th: _______________ Third Dinner Host June 22nd: __________________ Dates may be changed if needed.

Charity Challenge: November 3rd An evening filled with fun and games.

Sponsorship: $1,000 Grillapalooza: December 7th You may have heard of "Christmas in July", now we have "Grillapalooza." in December.

Sponsorship: $2,500 Networking for a Cause: May 18th, January 25th, June 13th Networking for a Cause is simply that. A time for professionals of all ages to meet other professionals - network- and learn about the opportunities for service and needs.

Sponsorship: $1,500 for each event Visionary Round-table: August 17th, November 15th, February 15th, May 23rd Major donors, Divine Society Members, volunteers, and board members both past and present are invited to attend one of four luncheons.

Sponsorship: $1,000 for each event

Black & White

April 20th, 2024

Catholic Charities Jacksonville's "Flagship" event of the year.

Sponsorship: Many sponsorship opportunities will be available for this event but will be announced at a later time. For now, there are five opportunities for headline sponsors.

1. Miracle $100,000 2. Blessings $75,000 3. Faith $50,000 4. Compassion $25,000 5. Hope $10,000 To secure your spot as an event sponsor or for more information please contact the development office at development@ccbjax.org. In order to remain good stewards of your gifts, our goal is that each event is paid for before we walk through the door.

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CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Friday, May 5, 2023 Backpack Program Delivery Friday, May 12, 2023 Backpack Program Delivery Saturday, May 13, 2023 Guardian Catholic School Food Event Thursday, May 18, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Friday, May 19, 2023 Backpack Program Delivery Saturday, May 20, 2023 Anchor Academy Food Event Saturday, May 20, 2023 Jacksonville Sharks Thursday, May 25, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Friday, May 26, 2023 Backpack Program Delivery Monday, May 29, 2023 Offices Closed: Memorial Day Thursday, June 1, 2023 Dental Cleaning from Dr. Donald

Alexander for Ukrainian Refugees Friday, June 2, 2023 Backpack Program Delivery Saturday, June 10, 2023 Jacksonville Sharks Saturday, June 10, 2023 Car Show: Knights of Columbus, Father

Maher Council 648 Saturday, June 17, 2023 St. Luke Catholic Food Event Tuesday, June 20, 2023 World Refugee Day Wednesday, June 21, 2023 Swearing-In of Board of Advisors Thursday, June 22, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Platinum

Anonymous The Chartrand Family Nancy & Gary Chartrand The Lucy Gooding Charitable Foundation Karen & Greg Montana Jorge Morales Alfred I DuPont Foundation Inc.

Gold

Cascone Family Foundation Fidelity Information Services Margaret & George Helow Family Foundation Frank & Marisa Martire Dr. & Mrs. Tom & Ruby Peters

Summer 2023

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Summer 2023

CATHOLIC CHARITIES JACKSONVILLE

Saturday, June 24, 2023 Jacksonville Sharks Saturday, June 24, 2023 Anchor Academy Food Event Wednesday, June 28, 2023 Jumbo Shrimp Thursday, June 29, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Monday, July 3, 2023 Citizenship Classes Start Tuesday, July 4, 2023 Offices Closed: Independence Day Saturday, July 8, 2023 St. Mary, Mother of Mercy Food Event Saturday, July 15, 2023 Jacksonville Sharks Saturday, July 15, 2023 St. William Wednesday, July 19, 2023 Board of Advisors Meeting Saturday, July 22, 2023 Anchor Academy Food Event Thursday, July 20, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Saturday, July 22, 2023 Jacksonville Sharks Saturday, July 22, 2023 Anchor Academy Food Event Thursday, July 27, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Thursday, August 17, 2023 Visionary Round-Table Thursday, August 24, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Saturday, August 26, 2023 Anchor Academy Food Event Thursday, August 31, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Monday, September 4, 2023 Offices Closed: Labor Day Wednesday, September 13, 2023 Annual Meeting Thursday, September 21, 2023 San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery Saturday, September 23, 2023 Anchor Academy Food Event

Silver Gene & Jan Bebeau Florida Blue Catherine Brinton The Burton Foundation Don & Patty DeStephano Ascension Florida & Gulf Coast Mike & Peggy French

Bronze

Anne Marie Maige Augustine Asset Management Gary Norcross Michael & Lisa Obringer John Sullivan Roger Tompkins

Joan Altes John & Lori Anderson Mark & Beth Brockelman Val Gee Pamela Imholz Bryan Lipinski Marc & Anne Mayo Donald Provasi James & Theresa Simak Jamie Woodward

Treasury of the Faith Dr. & Mrs. James & Kristi Aiello Dr. Steven Bateh George Broward Veronica Garcia Brown John & Ann Carey Ric & Alejandra Cole Bert & Caroline Costa James DenklAr Staci Rae Duncan

Musa & Gina Farmand Valeria Gonzalez-Kerr Kathleen Hurdis Doug Kirchoff Rob & Lynn Kowkabany James & Sue Knutzen Louis Larmoyeaux Mike & Jenny Lehman Mary Monfort

Mike & Shannon McVearry Mike & Nora Robertson Ed Rooney Carl Savoia Matt & Susan Schmitt Shannon Shea Michelle Tetschner Kim Wilmoth

Divine Society

Membership Levels

Catholic Charities Jacksonville has put our faith into action to serve the most vulnerable in our community for more than 75 years. Our programs rely on financial support from corporate sponsors and individuals who come together to provide more than $1 million each year to Transform Lives.

Five Levels of Support

Platinum Member - $20,000+ Gold Member - $10,000 - $19,999 Silver Member - $5,000 - $9,999 Bronze - $2,500 - $4,999 Treasury of the Faith Member - $1,000 - $2,499 Catholic Charities Jacksonville is grateful for the support from the Divine Society, a sustainer society formed to engage and celebrate our donors.

The Divine Society provides a way for our most involved contributors to collectively support our programs in a deeper way, allowing us to surpass our goals and support our team as we serve over 28,00 in our community last year.

Membership benefits also include: • Exclusive access to at least two Divine Society events during the course of the year to network and celebrate the group’s collective impact • Divine Society Membership recognition on various social media platforms, website, and at events.

For more information or if you would like to give please contact us at development@CCBJax.org

40 E. Adams St., Ste. 320 Jacksonville, FL 32202  development@CCBJax.org

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(904) 899-5505 CCBJax.org