Creating a Legacy: Recognizing Darlene Darnell’s 41 Years of Service at Catholic Charities

It takes dedication and personal commitment to spend more than half of one’s life in a social services career. That’s exactly why on February 27th, 2026 Catholic Charities leadership, board members, and employees gathered in the Yakima West chapel to celebrate the retirement of Catholic Charities CEO and President, Darlene Darnell.

The gathering was warm and personal as people lined up to congratulate Darlene at the conclusion of her 41-year service with Catholic Charities. Never one wanting to be the center of attention, Darlene was moved by the kind words spoken about her by Msgr. Tom Champoux, and former Catholic Charities CEO, John Young, a very special guest who joined via zoom.

John recalled the 20 years he worked alongside Darlene and the learning curves they both experienced. Having already worked at Catholic Charities for more than a decade, Darlene had to learn to work within an entirely different leadership style when John came onboard. It was a journey, but along the way, the two became close friends. “One of the things I was most grateful for at the time,” reminisced John, “was that when I was leaving, and Darlene was becoming the new CEO, I had absolutely no worries about the future of Catholic Charities. I knew they were in the best of hands.”

Msgr. Champoux spoke of the confidence he has in Catholic Charities’ leadership. “Last year we celebrated the agency’s 75th anniversary. John and Darlene have been part of that for a combined 61 of those 75 years! That has been some truly fine leadership!”

Manuel Villafan, Jr., newly named as Catholic Charities new CEO and President, spoke of his ten years under Darlene’s leadership, and how their journey together prepared him for this next chapter. “I am honored to continue the legacy Darlene has been guiding us to,” he noted before unveiling a big surprise. “Darlene’s leadership and dedication is unmatched, and that is why I’m so pleased to announce that the chapel we are in will now be known as the ‘Darlene Darnell Legacy Room.’” 

The announcement was a surprise to most in attendance, including Darlene herself. “I had no idea,” she commented when asked about the naming of the room.

But really, that is just like Darlene. Not one for the limelight, she has always worked quietly, making things happen to better the community, and quietly deferring accolades. As Manuel said recently, “Darlene has always been humble, and has let the results of her work speak for themselves.”

Looking ahead, Manuel is excited for the future of Catholic Charities. A beautiful multi-family complex is nearly completed and will be dedicated this spring, and Brewing Hope, the coffee shop internship program offering young adults the chance to gain life-changing employment skills, is gaining momentum and expanding.

It is an exciting time to get involved with Catholic Charities. To learn more or to be a part of “Bringing hope to life, especially for those most in need,” please visit: https://catholiccharitiescw.org/get-involved or follow us on social media at: https://www.facebook.com/CatholicCharitiesofYakima/ and: https://www.instagram.com/catholiccharitiescw/