What better way to honor 150 years of service and impact than by connecting with those who made it all possible? You – our generous, dedicated community partners are the fuel that powers the mission of Catholic Charities. We hope you will join us during our 150th Anniversary year through a series of unique volunteer, education and advocacy opportunities.

1. VOLUNTEER.
As an individual or part of a team or large group, volunteer at one of Catholic Charities’ 17 locations to have a first-hand impact and powerful learning and team-building experience.

2. LEARN.
Attend a Catholic Charities event to learn more about issues from homelessness to hunger, early childhood support for at-risk kids and families or caring for struggling elders. Or host an education or speed-volunteering event at your workplace – we are happy to customize an opportunity that will work best for you.

3. RAISE AWARENESS AND SUPPORT.
Conduct a drive to collect desperately needed clothing and household items to support the thousands of children, adults and families Catholic Charities serves. Our in-kind warehouse team can work with you to identify the most-needed items of the moment.

4. ADVOCATE.
Help us shape the public policies that make it possible for every Minnesotan to reach their full potential. Join an advocacy event at the State Capitol, send an email, call your elected official, join our social media campaigns or host an education session at your workplace.

5. VISIT A DIRECT SERVICE LOCATION.
Do you often drive by a Catholic Charities service location and wonder what really happens there? We’d love to host you for a tour! Come with your family or work team to learn about the services that are delivered, why they are important and how you can help support our most vulnerable neighbors.

6. WRITE A LETTER.

Many of the individuals we serve don’t have a network of family and friends to provide companionship and support. That’s where Catholic Charities comes in, and a simple gesture can go such a long way. Your family, work team, book club or neighborhood group can write short, friendly letters to someone who just moved into their new home after experiencing homelessness. We suggest to avoid phrases like “keep smiling” or “stay positive” – and instead consider these suggestions:

• Thinking of you and hope you are enjoying your new home
• Hope your new apartment is feeling more like home every day
• Sending good wishes your way
• You are valued
• Welcome Home!
• Wishing you peace and comfort

You can send a batch of handwritten letters to the Catholic Charities Distribution Center, c/o Gretchen Olmscheid at 341 Chester St., St. Paul, MN 55107 and we will make sure they are delivered directly to Catholic Charities clients who can use the boost of a handwritten note!

7. CREATIVE ENGAGEMENT.

From your workplace, parish or home. We love to brainstorm with you to create new opportunities for our partners to connect with the mission of Catholic Charities. Have an idea you’re not sure about? A group that’s interested in getting involved but not sure where to start? Give us a call and let’s get creative!

8. SHARE YOUR STORY.

We want to celebrate all of the human moments that make up the collective impact Catholic Charities has had for 150 years and counting. Will you share your story? How have you contributed to the mission of Catholic Charities? Why are you involved? Have you had a volunteer experience that was particularly eye opening? A moment of joy or hardship that made an impact on you? Please submit your story. We will be posting and sharing them on social media throughout the year with the #CC150 hashtag – follow along!

150TH ANNIVERSARY SPOTLIGHT WEEKS

Throughout 2020, we will be hosting four special Spotlight Weeks to highlight key areas of Catholic Charities’ mission. These weeks will feature special events and added visibility as we shine a light on the legacy and impact made possible by YOU – our generous, committed partners.

Consider planning an activity for your organization during one of these special Spotlight Weeks:
• February 6–14: Spotlight on Aging and Disability Issues
• May 7–15: Spotlight on Housing and Homelessness Issues
• August 27–September 4: Spotlight on Children and Families / Early Childhood Education
• Sept/October (Date TBA) – Spotlight on Opportunity Centers,
Employment Support

BUILDING THE FUTURE TOGETHER.
SIGN UP TODAY!
Contact events@cctwincities.org to learn more about how your organization can get involved during Catholic Charities’ 150th Anniversary year. Thank you for being a critical part of the community that brings our mission to life!