Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington provides help and creates hope for thousands of people each year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. Catholic Charities is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, funded, in part, by the State of Washington, federal contracts, the United Way, fees for service, grants, foundations, and charitable contributions.
Rooted in a Catholic tradition that shapes its core mission of service to all, staff do not need to be Catholic to work for Catholic Charities. We serve all in the community, regardless of their faith. With office locations in Yakima, Wenatchee, Richland, Moses Lake, Omak, and Sunnyside, our multi-family housing sites across Central Washington, as well as services that stretch out to every county east of the Cascade Range we serve just over 65,000 people annually.
The agency remains a testimony to its ongoing mission of “Bringing Hope to Life.”
At Catholic Charities, our mission is to bring hope to life.
The dignity and uniqueness of each person are at the core of our mission. We are
committed to an environment where employees and those we serve are
empowered, valued, appreciated, and accepted. We are committed to an inclusive
workforce that represents and respects diversity in all its forms and understand
that it is a dynamic process. We are committed to evolving and
advancing change. We actively pursue a workforce, leadership team, and
governing boards that represent the communities we serve.
Catholic Charities Stands United
Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington has provided social services for 75 years to feed, house, heal, educate, and meet people’s needs in communities across Central Washington. We uphold the belief that all people should be treated with respect and dignity and have access to food, housing, health care, childcare, and other necessities. We support all who reside in our communities, our housing facilities, recipients of our services, and our workforce who provide the services. We recognize that this dignity is not dependent on a person’s citizenship or immigration status, religious beliefs, identity of self, or economic demographic. The services we provide are available to all, fulfilling our mission to serve those most in need.
Non-emergency immigration enforcement in schools, homes, places of worship, social service agencies, healthcare facilities, or other sensitive settings where people receive essential services is contrary to the common good. All people have a right to go about their daily activities without fear.
We at Catholic Charities stand united to work on a better path forward that protects the dignity of all those we serve with compassion and care.
Caridades Católicas Sirviendo a Washington Central ha provisto servicios sociales por 75 años para alimentar, albergar, sanar, educar y satisfacer las necesidades de las personas en las comunidades de todo Washington Central. Defendemos la creencia de que todas las personas deben ser tratadas con respeto y dignidad y deben de tener acceso a alimentos, vivienda, cuidados médicos, cuidado de niños y otras necesidades. Apoyamos a todos los que residen en nuestras comunidades, nuestras instalaciones de vivienda, los que reciben nuestros servicios y a nuestra fuerza laboral que proporciona los servicios. Reconocemos que esta dignidad no depende de la ciudadanía o el estatus migratorio de una persona, de sus creencias religiosas, identidad de sí misma, o demografía económica. Los servicios que proporcionamos están disponibles para todos, cumpliendo nuestra misión de servir a los más necesitados.
La aplicación de leyes migratorias no urgentes en las escuelas, hogares, lugares de culto divino, agencias de servicio social, instalaciones de cuidados médicos, o cualquier otro entorno sensible donde las personas reciben servicios esenciales es contraria al bien común.
Nosotros en Caridades Católicas nos mantenemos unidos para trabajar en un mejor camino que proteja la dignidad de todos aquellos a quienes servimos con compasión y cuidado.
For residents of Benton and Franklin County who need immigration legal assistance you can contact Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington's Immigration Services Office at 509. 455.4961 – or by visiting its web page at: cceasternwa.org/legal-services
In accordance with federal civil rights law, regulations, and policies, Catholic Charities serves all in the community, regardless of faith, race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability, age, social class, or economic status. We serve all clients regardless of ability to pay. A discounted/sliding fee schedule is available based on family size and income.
Mission
Motivated by Christ’s love, we bring hope to life, especially for those most in need.
Vision
We envision communities where people are treated with dignity and respect, their basic needs are met, and they are empowered to enhance the quality of their own lives.
Values
We affirm our faith in God, who calls us to serve.
We celebrate the uniqueness and dignity of people.
We nurture children and strengthen families.
We provide quality services to those in need.
We serve people of all faiths.
History
Catholic Charities has been bringing hope to life in Central Washington since 1949. From our roots as a thrift store, we have responded to the needs in the communities we serve, offering services and support for all ages, from infancy to the elderly.
Board of Trustees
Chairperson
Vice Chairperson
Secretary
Treasurer
Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees
Board of Trustees
Emeritus Trustee
Mr. Terry Abeyta
I am inspired by the many ways in which Catholic Charities helps those most in need, from young mothers to senior citizens. I want to be a part of making a positive difference in the lives of people in our community who desperately require assistance to overcome their challenges and strive for a better future. Witnessing the impact of the organization's work fuels my passion and motivates me to contribute to the cause.
Giving back to the community has always been a core value instilled in me from an early age, both as a member of this community and as a lawyer. I firmly believe that it is our obligation to use our skills and resources to support and uplift those facing hardships. My grandparents' experiences as hardworking sheep herders and farm laborers have deeply resonated with me. While I may not be able to directly provide the services individuals with difficult lives require, I can apply my expertise and contribute to guiding the nonprofit that directly helps those who are most in need.
In my free time, I find joy in various activities. Staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are important to me, so I enjoy working out and playing tennis. Music holds a special place in my heart, and I appreciate listening to different genres. I also find relaxation in watching good movies and exploring diverse culinary experiences. Gardening allows me to connect with nature, and recently, I have taken up guitar lessons, embracing the idea that it's never too late to learn something new.
Mrs. Kathleen McCarthy
The kindness and good works of the many people around me and in the greater world inspire me every day. I am constantly searching for these qualities in the spaces where I choose to invest my time, which aligns perfectly with the mission I have discovered in Catholic Charities.
Growing up, my parents served as role models by emphasizing the importance of giving back to the church, neighborhood, and community. These values were further ingrained in me through my education in Catholic schools. Serving on the Catholic Charities board allows me to live out these cherished values and contribute to making a positive impact.
Throughout my career in education, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by families, particularly children, living in crisis and poverty. It has given me a broader perspective and deepened my understanding of the transformative power of targeted community resources. This experience fuels my passion for the work that Catholic Charities does, as I have seen how it can change lives for the better.
In terms of leisure activities, I find joy in connecting with people and embracing continuous learning. Spending time with my family and friends, who I consider to be an extension of my family, brings me immense happiness. Reading, tending to my flowers, and traveling are among the activities I enjoy for relaxation and personal fulfillment.
Rev. Msgr. Robert Siler
Raised in a large Catholic family, I came to know the love of the church at a young age. Unfortunately, many people do not grow up with this view of the faith. In my position as Episcopal Vicar and Chancellor for the Diocese of Yakima, much of my work lies outside the realm of direct pastoral care. I am inspired by Catholic Charities’ mission of bringing hope to life. As a trustee, I am able to support direct pastoral care and assist Catholic Charities in being the face of the Catholic Church to those who do not have an opportunity to see the church working in their lives.
Mr. Paul Palmer
What inspires me in my role in Finance is hearing the stories of how our organization has made a positive impact on the communities we serve. While I may not have direct client interaction like other staff members, it fills me with joy to hear about the lives we have touched and the assistance we have provided. Just the other day, while getting a ride from the car dealership, the driver's eyes lit up when he learned I worked for Catholic Charities. He shared his personal experience of how our services had helped him and his family. Being part of an organization that does so much good and positively impacts the lives of others is truly fulfilling.
My choice to work in a non-profit stems from my experience in my previous job with a successful, publicly traded for-profit healthcare and insurance company. I was impressed by their commitment to community service and the value they placed on giving back. The idea of serving the community and helping those in need resonated with me, leading me to transition into the non-profit sector. I am passionate about our mission and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others.
Growing up, my parents served as strong role models of helping and serving others. They instilled in me the importance of kindness and compassion. I witnessed firsthand their acts of kindness, such as visiting elderly shut-ins, delivering treats, and providing support during the holidays. Their example and my own experiences have shaped my belief in the significance of making a difference in the lives of others. Additionally, my exposure to different communities around the world has further highlighted the great need that exists. I am driven to contribute and play a part in meeting those needs, just as my parents did.
For fun, I cherish spending quality time with my wife, family, and grandchildren. Engaging in activities together, traveling, and creating lasting memories brings me immense joy. I also have a love for outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, riding ATV's, and snowmobiling. Being surrounded by loved ones and enjoying the beauty of nature brings balance and happiness to my life.
Mrs. Brigid Chvilicek
I am inspired by the mission of Catholic Charities of Central Washington: "Motivated by Christ's love, we bring hope to life, especially for those most in need." To me, this is the best and most fundamental reason for faith, and we are called to live this mission in every way we can. As I see the staff and leadership at Catholic Charities of Central Washington truly live this mission, it makes me want to be a part of it.
I am proud of the work being done by this organization, and it is an honor to be able to serve as a board member to learn more about this work and help promote it in my community. I have lived in Wenatchee for over 25 years. In my personal life and in my professional life as a nurse, I have seen and experienced the impact mental illness has on an individual, a family, and a community. People need significant support when dealing with difficult chronic mental illnesses and they require compassion and deep understanding.
I am particularly grateful to know that Catholic Charities is providing this care in the Wenatchee area. As a pediatric nurse, I am appreciative of the work Catholic Charities does in supporting early childhood education, PREPARES, and with the youth and young adult LifeSet program. This organization does so much to support people in so many different ways, it is remarkable that they do it all so well. I am so grateful to be part of this work as a board member!
In my spare time, I enjoy reading, doing yoga, hiking or walking with my dog, and spending any time I can with my young adult children and extended family!
Mrs. Lupita Mason
I find inspiration in discovering the various ways our community is positively impacted through the diverse range of services offered by Catholic Charities. It is truly uplifting to witness the difference these services make in the lives of those in need.
Serving on the board provides me with a remarkable opportunity to contribute to the act of giving and supporting others who require assistance. The dedication and passion exhibited by every board member motivates me to continue my efforts in helping those in need.
Utilizing my counseling skills, I am driven to provide support and assistance to my community. It is my goal to offer guidance and instill hope in our students and their families, helping them navigate through life's challenges.
In my leisure time, I enjoy traveling, tending to my garden, immersing myself in books, and exploring new and different cuisines. Engaging in walks and treasured conversations with people, where we share our life experiences and learn from one another, holds great value to me.
Ms. Marichuy Alvizar
Ms. Alvizar is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Unidos Nueva Allanza, whose mission is to protect and promote the rights of immigrants, Latinx, and underrepresented communities through advocacy, education, and health.
Dr. Michael Schaffrinna
Early on I was aware of the challenges my father faced as an immigrant with health issues. That along with my grandmother’s work as a midwife motivated me and my passion to serve. I chose pediatrics because this is the age which builds their health foundation for the future. I am inspired to serve as a Trustee for Catholic Charities because of its focus on charity. After a long career in the Air Force, I chose to work at Community Health of Central Washington because it serves the poor. Balancing career, family, and service is hard, but God tends to direct my path.
Dr. Maria Verduzco
I am inspired to represent Catholic Charities as a Trustee because of its great reputation in our community for helping underserved populations in the varied programs it offers. Growing up in Yakima my family worked a variety of agricultural jobs. I am familiar with the struggles and challenges that face farmworker families. I knew early on that I wanted to serve those most in need, which is why I became a physician. Catholic Charities’ mission aligns with my life’s passion to help those in need.
Chuck DeGooyer
What inspires me most are people who give freely of their time and passion to make a difference in others' lives. I have been fortunate to meet a host of incredible people in both my work in the community that strive to make a difference. Because of their examples, I am inspired to do more myself. Nonprofits strive to make a difference in people's lives and our community. I have served on a variety of boards and enjoy engaging with the people on these boards. I attended Catholic schools from 1st grade through high school and learned we need to be contributing citizens and leaders in our Church to help it be effective. I enjoyed serving on Parish Council, Finance Board, and Capital Campaigns and wanted to re-engage in a Catholic organization to make a difference in our community. Catholic Charities offers me the opportunity to do that.
My wife and I enjoy traveling, especially to visit our six children, their spouses, and our nine grandchildren (with one more due in November). Since most live out of our community, we love travelling to visit them on the other side of WA state, southern CA, AZ, and Italy. I also enjoy bicycling and working on classic cars.
Fr. Christian Melendez
Since my early years, I have harbored a profound commitment to the principles of justice. Influenced by impactful news narratives and significant films, I often recognized instances of injustice, igniting a strong desire to advocate for fairness. However, the pursuit of justice can be obscured by deceit, exaggeration, and unrealistic expectations, leading to feelings of disillusionment and a temptation to surrender. My vocation as a priest compels me to seek spiritual justice in the lives of individuals in my community. Coupled with my background in mental health, I am particularly motivated to assist those wrestling with social injustices and spiritual warfare. I find a deep connection with the mission of Catholic Charities, which aims to alleviate suffering and address various challenges rooted in Catholicism.
As both a priest and a psychologist, my professional life is dedicated to uplifting and supporting individuals in need. My involvement as a Trustee offers a platform to translate my passion for service into tangible initiatives. It allows for collaboration with like-minded individuals committed to enacting positive change and addressing essential community needs.
My professional background has given me an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by many, particularly those related to mental health, spiritual struggles, and social inequities. This understanding drives my desire to volunteer with Catholic Charities, where I can merge my compassionate approach as a priest with my expertise as a psychologist. Together, these experiences empower me to advocate for those who frequently feel marginalized and to contribute to programs that deliver critical support and resources.
Nature serves as a vital connection to the Triune God for me, and I experience immense pleasure in engaging in various outdoor pursuits. Whether hiking through scenic landscapes, camping beneath starry skies, fishing in calm waters, or enjoying the exhilaration of skydiving, each experience deepens my connection to the spiritual realm. Additionally, I find enjoyment in activities such as beach volleyball and swimming, which allow me to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. I also value cultural experiences, such as movies, theater, and concerts, which serves as entertainment and inspiration.
Rev. Msgr. Thomas C. Champoux
Catholic Charities has been a big part of my life since 1975. It is my faith in Jesus Christ and His example of taking care of others, especially the little ones, that inspires me most. Catholic Charities puts Christ’s words and example into real time activity here and now. I joined Catholic Charities to do marriage and family therapy. I retired as Executive Director in 1996 and am honored to serve as Chairperson of the Board of Trustees in addition to my duties as Pastor of Christ the King Parish in Richland. I was raised in a service-oriented family and became a priest to help people in the work that God calls me to do. I am proud to support Catholic Charities in the mission of bringing hope to life, especially for those most in need, throughout our diocese.
Senior Leadership Team
President/Chief Executive Officer
Vice President/Chief Operating Officer
Treasurer/Chief Financial Officer
Chief Information Officer
Executive Assistant
Compliance Officer
Youth & Young Adult Services Director
Director of Early Learning
Director of Clinical Practice
North Central Director
Director of Housing Services
Director of Human Resources
Director of Development & Outreach
Darlene Darnell
I started my journey with Catholic Charities 37 years ago, initially joining as the Clinical Director of the counseling programs. The organization's mission deeply resonated with my personal values and aligned with my professional background as a family therapist. I wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to work for an organization that prioritizes strengthening families and invests in the growth and development of its staff.
During my tenure as the Director of the Yakima office, I focused on expanding early learning services and integrating them with mental health support, even for our youngest children. Witnessing the impact of these initiatives fueled my dedication to the organization. In 2009, I was appointed Vice President of Catholic Charities, and since 2016, I have been humbled to serve as the President and CEO of Catholic Charities and Catholic Charities Housing Services. It is a true honor to lead an organization that strives to make a lasting difference in the lives of children, families, and seniors across generations.
In my leisure time, you might find me hiking, indulging in travel adventures, or engaging in home improvement projects. These activities provide me with a sense of joy and rejuvenation, allowing me to recharge and continue my commitment to serving others through Catholic Charities.
Manuel Villafan
Inspiration for me comes from witnessing the positive changes and progress in the lives of those around me. Whether it's the growth and development of employees, the transformation of clients, the well-being of children and families, or the overall betterment of our community, these moments of improvement drive me to continue working towards a brighter future. Seeing tangible outcomes and knowing that I have played a part in making a difference fuels my motivation and reinforces my commitment to the work I do.
I am deeply drawn to non-profit work because it allows me to pursue a purpose beyond financial gain. In the non-profit sector, our focus is on serving a greater cause and making a positive impact on the lives of others. For me, this purpose-driven work is immensely fulfilling. Having experienced my own share of struggles growing up in poverty, I understand firsthand the importance of support and the profound difference it can make. Organizations like Catholic Charities were there for my family when we needed help, and that experience has fueled my passion for serving others and giving back to the community.
When it comes to finding moments of relaxation and joy, I take pleasure in the art of cooking. It serves as a creative outlet that allows me to unwind and focus on something I take great pride in. Cooking not only provides a sense of personal fulfillment but also allows me to nourish others and share in the joy of creating delicious meals. It is a form of self-care and a way for me to express my creativity while finding moments of tranquility amidst a busy world.
Paul H. Palmer
What inspires me in my role in Finance is hearing the stories of how our organization has made a positive impact on the communities we serve. While I may not have direct client interaction like other staff members, it fills me with joy to hear about the lives we have touched and the assistance we have provided. Just the other day, while getting a ride from the car dealership, the driver's eyes lit up when he learned I worked for Catholic Charities. He shared his personal experience of how our services had helped him and his family. Being part of an organization that does so much good and positively impacts the lives of others is truly fulfilling.
My choice to work in a non-profit stems from my experience in my previous job with a successful, publicly traded for-profit healthcare and insurance company. I was impressed by their commitment to community service and the value they placed on giving back. The idea of serving the community and helping those in need resonated with me, leading me to transition into the non-profit sector. I am passionate about our mission and the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others.
Growing up, my parents served as strong role models of helping and serving others. They instilled in me the importance of kindness and compassion. I witnessed firsthand their acts of kindness, such as visiting elderly shut-ins, delivering treats, and providing support during the holidays. Their example and my own experiences have shaped my belief in the significance of making a difference in the lives of others. Additionally, my exposure to different communities around the world has further highlighted the great need that exists. I am driven to contribute and play a part in meeting those needs, just as my parents did.
For fun, I cherish spending quality time with my wife, family, and grandchildren. Engaging in activities together, traveling, and creating lasting memories brings me immense joy. I also have a love for outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, riding ATV's, and snowmobiling. Being surrounded by loved ones and enjoying the beauty of nature brings balance and happiness to my life.
Thomas Harris
I am a dedicated IT professional and currently serve as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington, where I leverage my extensive knowledge and leadership skills to support our organization’s mission. With over 20 years of experience in IT and project management, I combine strategic insight with a deep commitment to community service, inspired by my background as a veteran and a father of three. My military service has taken me around the world, giving me a profound desire to help those in need. This experience, along with my education and PMP certification, empowers me to build resilient technology solutions that amplify the impact of the nonprofit sector.
I take pride in supporting the exceptional team at Catholic Charities, viewing my role as an opportunity to bring joy and stability to my community. As a project management enthusiast, I believe in the power of technology to create lasting change, especially within underserved communities. Outside of work, I dedicate my time to my family, making my children my top priority. When I'm not with them, I enjoy the occasional game of golf, finding a rewarding balance between family, work, and personal passions.
Susana Gonzalez
I have worked my entire career in 2 non-profit agencies, both of which help families who work in agriculture with affordable quality childcare for their children. I am inspired by how Catholic Charities helps those most in need by providing early learning services in our communities. I was blessed to be raised in a loving and caring family. So many of the families that come to us need a little extra help to prepare their children for Kindergarten. We are able to help, and it warms my heart to know that these children are ready when the time comes.
In my free time, I love to spend time with my grandchildren who I spoil rotten. We have a little farm in the lower valley, and I love gardening, taking care of the animals, and rocking on the front porch with my husband and best friend, Frank. Outside of my home I love to visit the beach and take long walks.
Katherine Bell
Throughout my life, I have found inspiration in the genuine and uninhibited nature of children. Their ability to express themselves, question the world, and embrace continuous learning has always resonated with me. As I embarked on my career journey, it became clear to me that if I wanted to make a positive impact and foster change in my community, grant-based non-profit work was the path for me. I have dedicated my professional life to working with children and youth in underserved communities, bridging gaps between communities and organizations, and developing community coalitions that address social determinants of health.
My upbringing in White Swan on the Yakama Nation exposed me to various cultures, instilling in me a deep appreciation for ancestry, traditions, and storytelling. Seeking to explore my own roots, I pursued my Master's degree in Philosophy at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, where I focused on International Peace Studies. This transformative experience allowed me to reconnect with my own culture through the rich landscapes, traditional foods, and captivating narratives. It was during my time in Ireland that I not only delved into my heritage but also discovered profound insights about myself. This journey of self-discovery continues to shape my work as the Compliance Officer at Catholic Charities, as I firmly believe that embracing our authentic selves enables us to better support others on their unique paths.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I find solace and joy in immersing myself in nature, a passion that stems from my upbringing on a farm. Whether it's tending to my garden, embarking on hiking adventures, or caring for my beloved backyard chickens, being outdoors allows me to appreciate the beauty and serenity of the natural world. These moments of connection with nature serve as a reminder of the importance of nurturing living things and cultivating a harmonious relationship with our surroundings.
In essence, my life's journey has been driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact, fueled by my interactions with children, my dedication to non-profit work, and my exploration of my own heritage. As I continue to grow and evolve, I am committed to leveraging my experiences and knowledge to create lasting change and empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves.
Whitney Carlson
What inspires me in this work is the opportunity to provide professional development and support young professionals who are dedicated to making a difference in their communities and in the lives of the young people they serve. Witnessing their passion and drive is truly inspiring, and it is incredibly rewarding to see them grow into confident and successful case managers. Helping them develop their skills and watching their careers flourish is the most fulfilling aspect of my job.
I am deeply committed to non-profit work and have no plans of leaving this field. I wholeheartedly believe in the services provided by organizations like Catholic Charities. We strive to push boundaries and deliver quality care to those who need it the most. Knowing that our programs play a crucial role in providing essential services to community members who might otherwise lack access fuels my drive to continuously improve our services and ensure we deliver the best possible care.
When it comes to leisure activities, I find immense joy in going on vacations and spending quality time with friends and family. The Oregon Coast holds a special place in my heart, and we make it a point to visit at least twice a year. It is my happy place, where I can unwind, relax, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Catherine Dennis
As a dedicated early learning professional, my inspiration and purpose stem from ensuring that all children feel loved and have a safe environment to grow and learn. My parents set a remarkable example of love in action. Whether it was helping in the community, opening our home to foster children, or assisting a stranded motorist, they did it all. They even officially adopted my brother in his fifties so he could have an official family for his own family. This example of service was ingrained in me from a young age. I watched my parents serve their faith community, their local community, and the world, and I knew that this was how I wanted to live my life.
For fun, you can find me enjoying food, traveling, walking, learning, lifting weights, playing with my grandkids, or supporting my adult children—not necessarily in that order. I also have a deep love for the water, writing, and music.
Melissa Gorsuch-Clark
The compassion displayed by our Behavioral Health Team serves as a constant inspiration for me. Witnessing their deep care and dedication towards the individuals in our communities is a privilege and a joy. Being part of a team that genuinely cares about the well-being of others motivates me each day.
Engaging in non-profit work allows me to be part of a mission that embodies hope and ensures that we continue to serve the underserved. It is a fulfilling choice to work in an organization driven by a purpose that extends beyond profit, prioritizing the well-being of individuals and communities.
My journey into the field of social services was initially accidental, as I entered college without a clear idea of my future path. However, I am grateful for this "accident" every day. Over the past 20+ years, I have had the privilege of witnessing and being involved in incredible moments of transformation in the lives of children and families. Walking alongside individuals and families during their darkest hours and being part of their healing journey has been an honor and a privilege. This work, which never feels like work to me, has shaped who I am as a person and has had a profound impact on my life.
In my leisure time, I find joy in spending quality moments with my family, watching scary movies, enjoying boating adventures, and engaging in weight training. These activities provide me with relaxation, entertainment, and an opportunity to recharge, ultimately contributing to my overall well-being.
Kim Hatfield
Leveling the playing field for all children is the foundation of my 35+ year career. Growing up in the deep south where inequity ran rampant, I knew at an early age that something was "not right" about the way some people were treated differently. These experiences during my developmental years have stayed with me throughout my entire life and career. Each step of my career has been focused on what I can personally do to right these inequities. The journey through my professional stepping stones at head start, private child care ownership, community college faculty, non-profit employee, program launcher and visionary coach have molded me into the human I am today. The validation of my early instincts impacted my career immensely. My mantra has always been ‘Dream Big’. My forever dream is for every child to have a rainbow and butterfly start to life which launches them into stable loving relationships and life long confidence to be who they want to be. My latest inspiration is my two grand babies who delightfully consume my free time and provide all the fun I could ask for.
Bryan Ketcham
Throughout my career, I have found immense inspiration in helping families achieve their goals and break the cycle of poverty. Working in the affordable housing sector has been a source of great joy, as I believe that housing is not just a basic necessity, but a crucial foundation for our lives. It shapes our identities, strengthens our connections with loved ones and the community, and provides us with a safe haven. Witnessing the transformation of individuals and families as they secure safe and affordable homes, supported by services that open doors to opportunities and community engagement, inspires me daily. It reinforces the importance of our work and drives me to make a lasting impact.
Choosing to work in the non-profit sector was a natural choice for me as it allows me to align my professional endeavors with my personal values. The ability to contribute to meaningful causes and make a positive difference in the lives of others is incredibly fulfilling. Every day, I have the privilege of living out my values through the work I do, knowing that my efforts are dedicated to creating a better world for those in need.
My life experiences, particularly my travels in Central and South America during my younger years, have profoundly shaped my perspective and deepened my commitment to helping others. Witnessing the challenges faced by individuals and communities in different parts of the world ignited a desire within me to be an agent of change. It strengthened my resolve to work towards improving the lives of vulnerable populations and ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and a better future.
When I'm not immersed in my work, I find joy and fulfillment in coaching my kids' soccer teams. Being able to support and guide young athletes not only brings me closer to my children but also allows me to foster a sense of teamwork, discipline, and personal growth. It's a rewarding and fulfilling way to contribute to the development of young minds and strengthen the bonds within our community.
Angie Mobley
I am inspired by seeing people’s lives change for the better. That split second when you see the look in their eyes transform from hope to reality. It gets me every time. I work at Catholic Charities because I believe that all people deserve assistance when they need it and being able to attain it in a safe and comfortable environment.
We have all had challenging experiences in our lives, whether we live them firsthand or seen how they impact others. Like many others I have lost people close to me and have seen others struggle with extraordinary circumstances. Knowing that I am contributing to helping others via the support my department provides makes my heart happy. To me that is what non-profit work is all about.
In my spare time I love spending time with my grandson, who is the light of my life. Once or twice a year, my husband and I take him on RV trips with us, and at the tender age of seven he’s already visited five states outside Washington. I also enjoy spending time with all my family including my “fur babies.”
Steve Wilmes
The work we do with homeless teens and young adults is a constant source of inspiration for me. Seeing our dedicated staff members serving as mentors and working tirelessly for up to two years to help these young individuals discover their potential and achieve their life goals is truly remarkable. Many of these young people have no family connection or support system, making our mentoring and guidance even more crucial. Knowing that we are making a positive impact in their lives and providing them with a sense of hope and direction is what inspires me each day.
My journey into nonprofit work began during my early career when I had the privilege of working in youth ministry for a Catholic Church. As I contemplated making a change, transitioning into nonprofit fundraising felt like a natural step for me. What has kept me in the nonprofit sector for all these years is the opportunity to use my experience and skills to support the incredible work our staff engages in daily. Being part of an organization that brings hope to life, especially for those most in need, is deeply fulfilling and gives purpose to my work.
The importance of our mission is magnified by my own life experiences. Having spent 17 years in development, I consciously chose to work for a Catholic Social Services organization in Central Washington because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of those in need within my community. My commitment to our work with children aging out of Foster Care was ignited by my experience as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Arkansas. It was during this time that I truly grasped the challenges faced by young individuals without supportive parents or mentors. This personal understanding further fuels my passion and dedication to helping vulnerable youth navigate their way towards a brighter future.
When it comes to leisure activities, my family is at the center of my joy. Spending quality time with them is something I cherish deeply. I find solace and rejuvenation in the great outdoors, whether it's hiking, snowshoeing, or camping. Recently, I have also rediscovered my passion for brewing my own beer after a hiatus of 12 years. It's a delightful hobby that allows me to unwind and explore the art of crafting unique flavors.
Catholic Social Teaching Guides Our Work
The Catholic Church has a history of speaking to the issues that affect society and challenging its followers to live responsibly and help build a just world. Modern Catholic social teaching, rooted in scripture and articulated through a tradition of written documents, has evolved in response to the challenges of the day. It is the foundation of the mission and values of Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington.
The following are several of the key themes at the heart of our Catholic social tradition.
The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred, and the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. This belief is the foundation of all the principles of our social teaching. We believe every person is precious, people are more important than things, and the measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person.
The person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society in economics and politics, in law and policy directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community. Marriage and the family are the central social institutions that must be supported and strengthened, not undermined. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially poor and vulnerable people.
The Catholic tradition teaches us to protect human dignity and achieve a healthy community through protecting human rights and meeting our responsibilities to one another. Every person has a fundamental right to life, a right to those things required for human decency, and a responsibility to one another, our families, and the larger society.
A basic moral test of society is how our most vulnerable members are faring. In a society marred by deepening divisions between rich and poor, our tradition instructs us to put the needs of poor and vulnerable people first.
The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers to access productive work, earn decent and fair wages, organize and join unions, keep private property, and foster economic initiatives must be respected.
We are one human family, regardless of our national, racial, ethnic, and ideological differences. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers, wherever they may be throughout the world. At the core of the virtue of solidarity is the pursuit of justice and peace. Pope Paul IV taught, “If you want peace, work for justice.” The Gospel calls us to be peacemakers. Our love for all our sisters and brothers demands that we promote peace in a world surrounded by violence and conflict.
We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. Care for the earth is a requirement of the Catholic faith. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in a relationship with all of God’s creation. This environmental challenge has fundamental moral and ethical implications we cannot ignore.
