Each year, the Saint Nicholas Dinner brings together members from all parts of our community; business and non-profit leaders, government officials, volunteers, advocates and donors to learn more about the work of Catholic Charities and discover how their support benefits the children, families and individuals that Catholic Charities serves. This year was especially memorable as we kicked off our 150th year of service to the community.
Our work is fueled by this community. This year, we’re honored to introduce two incredible award honorees – who exemplify the commitment and generosity that bring our mission to life.
Catholic Charities 2019 Life of Distinction Award
The Life of Distinction Award is presented to a person or family who lives the mission of Catholic Charities through volunteerism, service and advocacy.
Those who rely on the shelter and services offered at the Dorothy Day Place campus may not know the names Bill and Joan Reiling, but they feel their warmth of spirit with every meal, every good night’s sleep and every opportunity.
The Life of Distinction Award is presented annually to a person or family in the community who actively lives the mission of Catholic Charities through dedication to the organization, volunteerism or board commitment. Bill and Joan Reiling certainly meet that criteria!
“Bill and Joan Reiling and their family helped build the foundation on which Catholic Charities stands,” said Catholic Charities President and CEO Tim Marx. “We wouldn’t be where we are as an organization or community but for them.”
Without Bill and Joan, Dorothy Day Place may not exist—and certainly not in the heart of Downtown Saint Paul. Catholic Charities originally leased the Dorothy Day building, and the Reilings worried they would be forced out when the lease ended. They bought the building, and Catholic Charities was able to buy it back from them on contract for deed. Bill and Joan also helped make it possible for Catholic Charities to own the Glenwood, Evergreen and Higher Ground Minneapolis campus, the Mary F. Frey Minneapolis Opportunity Center and the Catholic Charities Administration Center.
While their work with Catholic Charities started long ago, they intend to stay involved.
“I ask anybody who doesn’t know anything about Catholic Charities to find out a little bit more, and see if you can touch it someplace, because the danger is, it’ll change your life,” Bill said.
Thank you, Bill and Joan Reiling!
Catholic Charities 2019 Community Service Award
The Community Service Award is presented each year to an organization that has gone above and beyond as a true partner in advancing the mission of Catholic Charities of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Tonight, we are proud to honor Pohlad Family Foundation with this special recognition of the many ways our teams work together to improve the lives of those most in need and strengthen our entire community.
Pohlad has shown a steadfast commitment and support of Catholic Charities and the thousands of children, individuals and families we serve each year. From supporting families at Family Service Center to helping youth build a foundation at Hope Street Shelter to providing shelter, homes and hope to adults at Dorothy Day Place, the Pohlad Foundation has and continues to make a profound difference to those most in need.
A young woman named Ashleigh was one of those most in need. Hope Street Shelter was there when she had no place else to stay. She understands and values the support of Pohlad Family Foundation and others who helped her most.
“It’s life-changing,” she said. “A little bit goes a long way, and it doesn’t go unnoticed. Don’t ever think your hard work isn’t noticed.”
Ashleigh is not alone.
Hundreds of people have a place to call home thanks to the generous capital funding support Pohlad Family Foundation provided to make Dorothy Day Place a reality. On top of financial support, Catholic Charities is fortunate to also benefit from the volunteerism of Pohlad Family Foundation. As we prepared to open Dorothy Day Residence, more than 120 volunteers from Pohlad Companies and Pohlad Family Foundation spent the day getting homes ready for people to move in.
Thank you, Pohlad Family Foundation!
Photo Highlights
We are so grateful to our 150th Anniversary Sponsors for your gifts in honor of this special milestone in our history. Catholic Charities is needed more today than ever before – and your support will help us continue to respond with compassion, quality and impact.
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