For Immediate Release

Contact:
Suzanne Ouellette
617.451.7939
suzanne_ouellette@ccab.org

 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES ANNUAL SPRING CELEBRATION RAISES $1.6 MILLION
Funds raised to support agency's programs and services across Eastern Massachusetts

(Boston) May 26, 2011 – On May 18, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Boston held its annual Spring Celebration at the Boston Westin Waterfront. The event raised a record $1.6 million, to fund the agency's programs and services that support 200,000 people in need throughout Eastern Massachusetts.

"We are thrilled to have reached record levels at this year's gala and are grateful to for our generous and committed donors who understand that with their support we can continue to positively impact the lives of the people we serve each and every day," said Deborah Kincade Rambo, president of Catholic Charities. "It is their support that allows us to help meet the fundamental needs of our clients and lead them on the path towards long-term self-sufficiency."

Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., President Emeritus, University of Notre Dame, was honored with the "Justice and Compassion Award" for a life committed to faith, education and public service. Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., President of Notre Dame, accepted the "Justice and Compassion Award" in honor of Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, who was unable to attend the event.

"During a university presidency that spanned three decades, Fr. Hesburgh's work stretched beyond education to targeted issues of social justice, including civil rights, peaceful uses of atomic energy, Third World development, Palestinian-Israeli relationships and immigration reform," Rambo said. "We are proud to bestow this honor upon him."

More than 550 people joined Cardinal Seàn Patrick O'Malley and Master of Ceremonies journalist Mark Shields. John J. Mahoney, Vice Chairman and Chief Financial Officer of Staples, and Brian T. Moynihan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bank of America served as co-chairs of the event.

About Catholic Charities of Boston
For more than 100 years, Catholic Charities has continued its mission of building a just and compassionate society rooted in the dignity of all people. The agency provides nearly 100 programs and services throughout Eastern Massachusetts. These services respond to the needs of the poor and working poor, provide supportive services to children and families, and assist refugees and immigrants as they become active participants in their communities. Last year, Catholic Charities served more than 200,000 people in need, regardless of faith. To discover more of our work, visit www.ccab.org.