In a room where compassion met commitment, the Catholic Charities Diocese of Allentown “Hearts of Hope Gala” was held on April 19. Aster Hall at the Hyatt Hotel in Allentown welcomed over 200 guests dedicated to supporting those in need.
Executive Director Andrea Neagle welcomed everyone and emphasized the significance of each contribution: “Every gift, no matter its size, becomes hope made tangible, transforming lives and strengthening the individuals and families who turn to Catholic Charities.”
Bishop Alfred Schlert opened with prayer, highlighting the organization’s inclusive mission: “[I’m] so grateful that you could be here tonight, not only to celebrate the good work of Catholic Charities, but to support it, because it truly does support men and women of all faiths or no faith. And that is really for us the best way to show the compassion of Christ.”
During dinner, Board Chair Beth Beers reminded attendees that the impact goes beyond immediate aid. “Your generosity and your donations are not just putting food in someone's mouth. You are giving them a chance to get better,” she said.
Beers then introduced the first honoree, Father Robert Finlan, a native of Ashland and longtime educator. Having served as President of Bethlehem Catholic and Holy Name high schools, he now leads as Principal of Marian Catholic High School and Pastor of St. Richard, Barnesville and St. John XXIII, Tamaqua.
Accepting the award, Father Finlan described Catholic Charities as “an amazing witness to the value and dignity of human life and to our commitment to Christ.”
The evening also honored Dr. Stephen and Mrs. Sabina Olenchock, dedicated supporters who co-chaired the 2015 Gala. In her remarks, Sabina shifted the spotlight to those on the front lines, saying that “the true recognition should go to the workers at Catholic Charities who walk in that door every day.” Her husband Stephen added a note of humility, saying, “Any good work of ours is a gift from Him.”
The fifth annual Jeffrey P. Young Youth Service Award was presented to Claire Bowers, a senior at Mercy School for Special Learning, Allentown. The award recognizes a student who lives out Christian values through service, reflecting the legacy of the late Jeffrey P. Young.
Bowers was honored for her clerical assistance to Catholic Charities and her participation in the Magical Movement Dancer program, demonstrating both dedication and joy in service.
“Mission Moments,” presented by Rainie Campagna, Director of Community Support Services, brought powerful testimony from those served by the organization. Tom and Louise, once living in a 1990 Chevy Sport Van, shared their experience finding stable housing.
Tom said, “They treated us with respect, like we mattered ... enough to give us something we hadn't felt in a long time. That was hope.”
Another client, Keith, reflected on his experience at the Community Café after losing transportation: “They treated me with a bunch of dignity and integrity and compassion ... I try to be an advocate for the unsheltered.”
The evening continued with a lively auction led by Master of Ceremonies Father Allen Hoffa, featuring items such as a seven-night Bahamas cruise, a VIP suite at Coca-Cola Park, and a five-course golf experience. Guests also bid on a private in-home dinner and a “Puttin’ on the Ritz” food truck party.
Lisa Geosits, Director of Operations and Community Engagement at Catholic Charities, highlighted growth through the organization’s new mobile unit: “We are expanding our reach for disaster services in our Diocese, and we're looking forward to taking ‘Lucy’ on the road and getting her out there with supplies to those areas that need it the most.”
The gala concluded with an invitation to support Catholic Charities through monthly giving and planned contributions. The evening closed with a final blessing from Father Finlan, sending guests forth inspired to continue making hope tangible.
For more information about Catholic Charities Diocese of Allentown, visit www.catholiccharitiesad.org.
Photos by Vargas Photography.
Copy Permalink
