Chronicles Summer 2023

Chronicles

SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 75 YEARS

A program that improves language proficiency of students whose native language is not English.

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

ENGLISH FOR SPEAKER OF OTHER LANGUAGES (ESOL)

CAMP I AM SPECIAL REFUGEE RESETTLEMENT

Lori Weber Regional Director

A NOTE FROM OUR REGIONAL DIRECTOR

The 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.

As 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.

The 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:

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

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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!

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

”

Oprocessalso 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

breeds achievement and happiness.

Catholic

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

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE

Emergency Assistance Specialists play a critical role in providing support to individuals and families who are facing financial crises that could lead to homelessness. These specialists are responsible for collecting and reviewing the necessary documentation to determine the client’s eligibility for emergency assistance. They work closely with landlords and mortgagors to prevent eviction and process requests for short-term financial aid.

In addition to their administrative tasks, Emergency Assistance Specialists also

serve an educational role, helping clients to identify the factors or events that led to their need for assistance. They work with each client to create a Housing Stability Plan that includes SMART goals and action steps with target dates for completion. They also evaluate the financial literacy of each client and provide appropriate referrals

October 2022 - February 2023

Iamso 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

for financial training to meet their individual needs.

Our Specialists are dedicated to preserving case files with supporting documentation and storing data in client data management systems such as Efforts to Outcomes (ETO) and the local HMIS, Client Track. Through their work, they also help to provide crucial support and resources to vulnerable populations, ensuring that they maintain housing stability and prevent homelessness. But the work continues to evolve. Even now Daphne (Program Director) is working to improve and modernize the EA program to assist clients in achieving long-term selfsufficiency.

WELCOMING THE STRANGER:

importance of Compassionate Refugee Resettlement

Catholic 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.

Our 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.

The

WELCOMING THE STRANGER:

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

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

Seeing 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.

We 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.

The programs includes Reception and Placement services, employment services, Immigration and ESOL classes. We have been granted another

We 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.

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

Hellai Noorzai Director of Refugee and Immigration

FOOD PROGRAM

But So Much More...

Oh,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.

Every 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.

As 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

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.

Ihadthe 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.

However, 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

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

Susie E. Tolbert Backpack Program

HELP FIGHT LOCAL HUNGER

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.

Your 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

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.

Jacksonvi e

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 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.

The 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.

The 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.

We 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.

Catholic 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.

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.

Philanthropy: The Greek root may be literally translated as “Loving People”

Cliff Thomas Senior Director of MarCon and Development

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.

e

You Are Invited: NETWORKING

FOR A CAUSE

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

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.

Jacksonvi

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.

Champions of Charity

A dinner event hosted by a friend of Catholic Charities Jacksonville, at their residence. Hosts are encouraged to invite close friends

Visionary Round-table

Donors, Divine Society members, volunteers, and board members both past and present are invited to attend one of four luncheons. As the name

Community

with those who share a common vision to help those in need.

The Charitable Heart

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

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.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

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 &

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

April 20th, 2024

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.

Friday, May 5, 2023

Friday, May 12, 2023

Saturday, May 13, 2023

Thursday, May 18, 2023

Friday, May 19, 2023

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Thursday, May 25, 2023

Friday, May 26, 2023

Monday, May 29, 2023

Thursday, June 1, 2023

Friday, June 2, 2023

Saturday, June 10, 2023

Saturday, June 10, 2023

Saturday, June 17, 2023

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

Wednesday, June 21, 2023

Thursday, June 22, 2023

Backpack Program Delivery

Backpack Program Delivery

Guardian Catholic School Food Event

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Backpack Program Delivery

Anchor Academy Food Event

Jacksonville Sharks

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Backpack Program Delivery

Offices Closed: Memorial Day

Dental Cleaning from Dr. Donald Alexander for Ukrainian Refugees

Backpack Program Delivery

Jacksonville Sharks

Car Show: Knights of Columbus, Father Maher Council 648

St. Luke Catholic Food Event

World Refugee Day

Swearing-In of Board of Advisors

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Gold

Fidelity

Platinum Anonymous

The Chartrand Family

Nancy & Gary Chartrand

The Lucy Gooding Charitable Foundation

Karen & Greg Montana

Jorge Morales

Alfred I DuPont Foundation Inc.

Cascone Family Foundation

Information Services

Margaret & George Helow Family Foundation

Frank & Marisa Martire

Dr. & Mrs. Tom & Ruby Peters

Saturday, June 24, 2023

Saturday, June 24, 2023

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Monday, July 3, 2023

Tuesday, July 4, 2023

Saturday, July 8, 2023

Saturday, July 15, 2023

Saturday, July 15, 2023

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Saturday, July 22, 2023

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Saturday, July 22, 2023

Saturday, July 22, 2023

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Thursday, August 17, 2023

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Saturday, August 26, 2023

Thursday, August 31, 2023

Monday, September 4, 2023

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Saturday, September 23, 2023

Jacksonville Sharks

Anchor Academy Food Event

Jumbo Shrimp

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Citizenship Classes Start

Offices Closed: Independence Day

St. Mary, Mother of Mercy Food Event

Jacksonville Sharks

St. William

Board of Advisors Meeting

Anchor Academy Food Event

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Jacksonville Sharks

Anchor Academy Food Event

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Visionary Round-Table

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Anchor Academy Food Event

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Offices Closed: Labor Day

Annual Meeting

San Jose/ Hurly Manor Food Delivery

Anchor Academy Food Event

Treasury of the Faith

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

(904) 899-5505

CCBJax.org