Without question, 2020 has been an incredibly challenging year. And though the pandemic continues to affect our way of life, Catholic Charities’ staff know that there’s still so much to be grateful for. In honor of Thanksgiving, we asked our employees from across the agency to share what they’re thankful for this year…
“I’m thankful for my incredible ILS Family!” – Jacqueline Rishty, Director, Immigration Legal Service
“I am thankful for the wonderful staff, volunteers, and donors who make it possible for Catholic Charities to serve those who come to us for help.” – Patrick W. Dunne, Chief Operating Officer
“I am thankful and grateful, for God’s mercy, the love of my family and friends, and the opportunity to make my tomorrows better than my yesterdays.” – Ahmed A. D. Salimon Jr., MSW, LGSW, COMPASS Partner
“I am grateful for my wonderful team who has gone above and beyond despite the circumstances.” – Lucciola Lambruschini, DDS, MBA, Director of Dental Services
“A small thing, but I am thankful for the sunshine and that the weather has been mild so far this season (knock on wood). The sun’s warmth can brighten any day, and Vitamin D has been found to be a factor in lessening the severity of COVID-19. Plus, it’s something that everyone can enjoy equally, even if it’s just stepping outside your office for a few minutes, or sitting at a sunny window.” – Amy Acuff, Executive Assistant to the CFO and COO
“I’m thankful to work for an employer that cares about the well-being of the people it serves as well as its own employees.” – Margaret Walsh Rudmann, Staff Attorney, Immigration Legal Services
“I’m thankful for my daughters, Molly and Kelly, as well as the friendship I have with my husband, Justin. I notice people going out of their way to help me or others and I’m grateful for their smiles and overall goodwill, especially in a time when it’s hard to be cheerful all of the time. And I’m thankful for the friendships I have in my colleagues – it’s sobering to know their personal struggles and it’s an honor to be able to care for them even with small actions such as just listening with kindness. I’m also grateful for the staff that I work with every day. The past several months have been incredibly challenging and a bit of an emotional roller coaster for most of us, but I’m deeply thankful for the resilience and resolve of all Development and Communications teammates who have remained brave, strong, and committed.” – Tara Arras, Chief Development Officer
“I am thankful for the opportunity to continue working and helping out the immigrant population during this time of need. I am also very thankful for the slower pace this pandemic has brought upon us allowing me to spend more quality family time.” – Estefania Higgins, Supervising Attorney ILS
“I am grateful that Catholic Charities kept us employed during the shutdown and we were able to continue serving our community. I am grateful that Congress collaborated with the administration to make this possible.” – Ana Delgado, RDH, Dental Hygienist, Catholic Charities Dental Clinic
“I’m thankful for all the thoughtful, caring people who are volunteering to join Catholic Charities’ mission to inspire hope and give help to our brothers and sisters.” – Maggie O’Neill, Director, Volunteer Engagement
“As we celebrate a national day of thanks, I am most grateful for all of you – my co-workers in ministry to the poor and vulnerable. All of you are exceptionally talented and committed to the cause. When I pray at mass tomorrow, you will be at the top of my list in my thanksgiving to God.” – Rev. Msgr. John J. Enzler, President and CEO
From our family to yours, have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
