2009 Catholic Charities Employee and Volunteer

Award Winners

CATHOLIC CHARITIES AIDS SERVICES

  Employee Award  

­ JESMIN RASHID ­

Jesmin Rashid began her career with Catholic Charities of Albany and Rensselaer Counties in 2003 as the AP/Payroll Accountant and eventually transitioned to AIDS Services as the Billing Clerk in 2005.  In 2007, her role was restructured and she now acts as the Fiscal Assistant responsible for contract vouchering and data management in addition to her duties with Medicaid billing.  Jesmin’s expertise and attention to detail with regard to Medicaid vouchering have been invaluable to the agency. 

Jesmin’s role in the agency is behind-the-scenes but so important to being able to do the direct work that staff does with clients with HIV/AIDS. Her cheerful demeanor, even when obviously buried under work, brightens the building. It is a rare occasion when Jesmin does not share a smile with everyone around her. Jesmin sometimes comments that friends and family question why she remains here, when she could earn more money in the business sector with her training and skills.  She values the fact that she is part of something that makes a difference in people’s lives. 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES AIDS SERVICES

  Volunteer Award  

­ PATRICK PICCIRILLI ­

Patrick Piccirilli has served as a member of the Catholic Charities AIDS Services Board from 2005-2009, but most recently as the Board Treasurer.  Pat has served on the Finance Committee and Fundraising/Marketing Committee during his tenure.  He has guided the agency to carefully consider its financial position by planning for its future, guiding decision making by data and asking hard questions.  His format for presentation of fiscal information to the Board lays a strong foundation for others to follow as he leaves the board. 

In addition to his more formal role on the Board, Pat is quick to adopt a client for the holidays, represent the Board at AIDS Walk, participate in luncheons and other staff gatherings and be a support to staff.  His positive spirit and encouragement have guided the agency leadership through periods of significant change.  His contributions are many and his presence as a Board leader will be missed.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES CENTRAL OFFICE

Employee Award

­ THERESA GIZZI ­

Prompted by Sr. Rosemary to apply for a job with the Catholic Charities, Theresa Gizzi now recalls how she unexpectedly accepted her sister’s suggestion and now, nearly 18 years later, finds herself reflecting the mission of Catholic Charities through her multiple roles as office assistant/receptionist.

Theresa attends to a variety of functions at the Pastoral Center office from answering the phone to filing and copying to ordering office and food supplies to providing hospitality for the many meetings hosted by Catholic Charities.  If you were to ask Theresa what she thinks about the organization, you will undoubtedly hear her use words that convey a sense of family and community.  In many ways it is Theresa’s extraordinary conviction for helping others that contributes to the office spirit.  Her co-workers view her as compassionate, task-oriented, reliable, and doing whatever it takes “to get the job done.”  Combined with her sense of humor and her extraordinary work ethic Theresa embodies the ministry of Catholic Charities through her interactions with those who call for help and among her office colleagues.

She is appreciative of the support and concern that she receives from her office staff and notices the kindness exhibited by the entire Charities family.  She gives of herself with personal warmth in a very nurturing way.  Most notably, those who come in contact with Theresa will often comment how she treats every meeting group like “they are coming to her home for dinner.”  Her commitment to family is very evident in the work environment as she responds to others with a sense of understanding and care while being attentive to people’s individual needs. Theresa’s supervisor frequently will remark how “she won’t let Theresa retire.”  And her sentiment is echoed by all those around her.  We hope to continue to benefit from Theresa’s presence for quite some time.  Today we thank you, Theresa, for your steadfast dedication to the staff, volunteers, board members and clients of the system of Catholic Charities.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES CENTRAL OFFICE

Volunteer Award

­ PEGGY SAUER ­

What do you get when you combine giant teddy bear patterns, patchwork purses, dinosaur pillows and contagious laughter? Miss Peggy’s Sewing Club at New Day Art! Participating in the sewing club is very exciting for the children.  Each Monday and Tuesday, our little artists get the opportunity to brainstorm with Miss Peggy to create all types of fabric creations.  Miss Peggy’s Motto is “If we can think, then we can make it!”

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT SERVICES

  Employee Award 

­ KRISTA GALLUP ­

Krista has been an employee of our agency for three and a half years.  Prior to joining our agency she was the Faith Formation Coordinator at Saint Lucy’s Parish in Altamont, NY and before that she was site supervisor for the Guilderland Community Center/YMCA.  She is also the president of the PTA in the Altamont Elementary School.  Her role as a parent of three boys (Ryan, Conor and Evan) has given her the opportunity to be coach of the Guilderland Youth Soccer, manager of the T-Ball Pine Bush Little League, Team Parent in the Guilderland Boy’s Youth Lacrosse and Co-director of the Summer Vacation Bible School and Station Leader of Kids Time, a monthly afterschool youth group.  Krista and her husband Colin and the boys currently mentor a 10 year old boy from the Juvenile Mentoring Program. 

Originally hired as an administrative assistant with this office, we felt fortunate that Krista was already on staff when we needed someone with her skill sets to develop the youth component of the Kinship Caregiving Program.  Since Krista has taken on the role of Youth Program Coordinator, the youth component has shifted greatly from a general child care environment to one that is structured with specific activities designed to build the strengths and assets of the youth. 

The Board of Directors and the Staff are privileged to extend our heartfelt thanks to Krista for her continuous dedication and commitment to improving the lives of the children she works with in our program.    Her positive approach to life is evident in her unlimited energy for her family as well as her parish.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT SERVICES

  Volunteer Award

­ JAMES J. CONROY, III ­

It is with much appreciation that we express our gratitude for the dedication and hard labor given to us by James Conroy.    Jim joined the board in July of 2004.  He has been the treasurer, chair of finance and member of the executive committee for the last two terms.  Jim has consistently been a strong advocate and force of support for the programs of the agency.  He has been a source of calm, collected thought and positive energy in good economic times and in difficult economic times.  He has always been a voice of balance and insight and offered many hours of his time in making the agency a success. 

Jim was recognized in the Albany Business Review for his leadership.  He is the vice president of the New York Business Development Corporation (NYBDC).  One of the reasons he is so successful on our board is his vast work experience focusing on small business development.  Prior to NYBDC, Jim was Economic Developer for the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce-affiliated Albany County Partnership.  He is also Program Manager for the Statewide Zone Capital Corporation. 

Jim has served his country as a US Marine and is a veteran of  Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm.  He is married with a lovely wife, Karen, and two daughters.

The Board of Directors and the staff are privileged to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jim for his years of service and dedication to the agency and its mission. 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF
COLUMBIA & GREENE COUNTIES

Employee Award 

­ RUBY BRANTLEY ­

Ruby Brantley has a special way of interacting with people she comes into contact with, especially in her daily operations as WIC Assistant for Catholic Charities of Columbia and Greene Counties’ WIC Program. She consistently brings a positive, energetic, and pleasant attitude to her work environment. She always greets you with a smile and utilizes her wonderful sense of humor to make difficult situations easier to deal with. Ruby has a way of making people around her feel at ease, welcomed and heard.  Often times in the WIC Program Ruby has to be the person who tells a client that they don’t qualify for WIC anymore or they don’t have adequate paperwork to obtain their WIC checks on a particular day.  She informs participants of WIC policies and procedures in a respectful, kind, non-judgmental way. Ruby is always willing to go above and beyond the call of duty, helping out wherever she is needed at the time. 

In the past year, both Catholic Charities of Columbia and Greene Counties and its WIC Program have undergone significant changes, all of which Ruby has shown tremendous tenacity and resilience in adapting to.

This month Ruby celebrates 27 years of employment and service with Catholic Charities in Columbia and Greene Counties!

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF
COLUMBIA & GREENE COUNTIES

  Volunteer Award

 
­ HENRY J. DIGESER ­
                                                 
When you say the word volunteer many thoughts resonate through your mind, but at Catholic Charities of Columbia and Greene Counties it means Hank Digeser. Hank has served as a Board of Directors member for the past six years in which time he held positions on numerous committees, served as committee chairs, served in various officer positions including president and remains active as an ex-Officio member.

• Need a professional and striking sign for the Agency? Ask Hank - Job Done.
• Need the sign installed? Ask Hank – Job Done.
• Need trees trimmed? Ask Hank - Job Done.
• Need a sponsor for fundraising? Ask Hank – Job Done.
• Need new flooring? Ask Hank - Job Done.
• Need a 200lb refrigerator moved from the second floor and disposed of? Ask Hank - Job Done.
• Need an Energy Audit? Ask Hank - Job Done.
• Need a large WIC room painted? Ask Hank - Job Done.

Hank has given of himself, his time and money in so many more ways than can be detailed here.  Hank lives out the mission to give back to the community and to help those in need.  Always willing to push up his sleeves to get the work done, Hank has also provided valuable insights into the future direction of the Agency. 

Hank has been chosen to be recognized as our volunteer because he acts selflessly and whole heartedly to support the staff and clients of Catholic Charities of Columbia and Greene Counties. Last but not least, Hank has an Electrical Engineer degree from R.P.I.; I am sure he’ll tell you what year if you ask him.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF
DELAWARE & OTSEGO COUNTIES

  Eilene Flanagan Employee Award *

 
­ CHRISTY HOUCK ­

Catholic Charities of Delaware and Otsego Counties is pleased to recognize Christy Houck, director of our Child Care Connection program as our very first Eilene Flanagan Employee of the Year for 2009.  Christy has been working for Catholic Charities for five    years, first coming to us as a Child Care Specialist.  After the birth of her daughter Terissa, Christy went to work for HeadStart, but she returned to Charities, and in 2008 she became the director of Child Care Services here.

Christy brings all of her experience as a parent, early childhood professional, and well organized program leader to the table every day.  She has been involved in coordinating our child care provider recruitment, registration, training and monitoring activities.  She helped to develop a NYS OCFS response to serve legal exempt providers in our area, and has been involved in local Association for the Education of Young Children activities in our area.  Recently, the requirements for Best Practices Certification, new uses of technology, and higher levels of collaboration among county Child Care Resource and Referral programs has increased. Christy has been a leader in the creation of a multi-county Rural Region for Child Care Resource and Referral programs. 

Christy is the wife of Terry Houck, and the mother of Skye, Terissa and Joshua. She is a valued and respected member of our agency and a tireless advocate for young children and our rural child care providers.

*  Eilene Flanagan was the Administrative Assistant for Catholic Charities of Delaware and Otsego County from 1990  to 2008 when she was taken by cancer.  Over the years, she worked with several Executive Directors and many Board and staff members.  She became the beating heart of our agency.  An exceptional woman, who brought her heart and soul to the work of serving others, she was beloved by all of us, including the clients we served.  At the time of Eilene’s death, the board of directors created the Eilene Flanagan Annual Employee Recognition Award.  Through this award each year, we honor other staff who bring their best to the table each day, and we celebrate the life of a truly exceptional friend and co-worker. 2009 is the first year of this award.   

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF
DELAWARE & OTSEGO COUNTIES

  Volunteer Award

­ JACOB PUCCI ­

Jacob Pucci, a student at Delhi Central School in Delaware County, and a parishioner of St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church Parish in Delhi, New York, is interested in the fight against rural poverty and hunger. When he first met with the local Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Kathie Greenblatt, Jacob wanted to learn about the particular challenges of addressing rural hunger. This led to the development of his Eagle Scout Project, in which he raised funds to purchase food and other essential supplies, and to prepare individual boxes of Walk-Away food for people in Delaware and parts of Otsego County, where more than 13 % of area residents live below the poverty guidelines.  The boxes will be distributed at sites throughout the counties where the homeless and hungry may present themselves.

Each box of nutritious, non perishable food, clean dry socks, paper plates and cups, disposable cutlery and a can opener, will feed one person for three days, and will cost $17.00 to fill.  A unique feature of these food boxes is that none of the components will need to be cooked.  A person who is homeless, or living in a motel room or tent, may not be able to access a means of cooking or refrigerating meals.  Boy Scouts from Delhi helped to assemble the boxes, and Jacob, and other agencies and programs, will be able to replicate these boxes to address rural hunger, serve the homeless, and respond to mass emergencies.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES DISABILITIES SERVICES
  
Employee Award 

­ DENISE LaBIER ­

Denise LaBier has been with Catholic Charities Disabilities Services for 18 years.  She began her career with the agency at Serena House as a Qualified Mental Retardation Professional (QMRP).  She worked diligently to ensure the daily lives of our residents were enjoyable and meaningful to each of them, as individuals.

Many years into her role as a QMRP, Denise began looking for new challenges within the agency.   She wanted to reach out to more individuals living in communities throughout the Capital Region so, after a brief period serving on the administrative team in the Human Resource department as a recruiter, she joined the new and rapidly expanding Service Coordination Department. Denise quickly acclimated to her new role as a Service Coordinator.  Early on she demonstrated her fierce advocacy skills, and genuine concern for the individuals, and their families, whose daily lives are impacted by developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries.  We were so impressed with Denise’s dedication to the individuals she worked with, her loyalty to her co-workers, and the agency, we promoted her to Senior Service Coordinator. 

Denise’s talents for advocacy and teaching did not go unnoticed and soon she became a member of the team that oversees the Service Coordination Department. Her sense of professionalism and her demand for excellence made her the perfect choice for supervisor.  Denise is currently and has been a Supervisor in the Service Coordination Department for several years now, where she works diligently to ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injuries lead richer lives. 

Denise has the distinct ability to multi-task.  This enables her to provide great service to individuals served by Catholic Charities Disabilities Services while being a great source of support to the individual Service Coordinators she supervises. Denise is innovative and hard working.  She has a lot of practice juggling many tasks because she is also the mother of 9 year old twin sons.
Although her work and home lives are filled with activity, Denise still takes the time to visit with the family of one of the individuals she worked with for years until her death in November of this past year.  She continues to support the family through their time of loss.  Denise is a person who gives freely of herself.  She is a true champion for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Over the course of her many years with Catholic Charities Disabilities Services, Denise has touched the lives of so many.   She has been an informal part of the administration and her comments and suggestions have found their way into helping to shape the agency and its service provision.  It is impossible to fully capture the impact that Denise has had on the agency and the people it serves.   She is truly an example of the mission and good works of Catholic Charities.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES DISABILITIES SERVICES
 
Volunteer Award 

­ HOLLY GAGAN ­

Holly Gagan is hands down one of the finest advocates we know when it comes to her son.  Catholic Charities Disabilities Services (CCDS) has had the pleasure of serving him and getting to know Holly for the past 15 years.

What started out as a provider-to-parent relationship evolved into the role of a volunteer.  As CCDS pursued quality providers to serve her son, Holly found ways to work with the agency.  She took it upon herself to participate in recruitment efforts along with the agency to find just the right people for him.  These efforts developed into relationships with some of the local schools, and provided additional staff for CCDS to support other individuals in need of service.

In addition to the supports through CCDS, Holly has advocated to arrange specialized schooling in her home for her son.  That arrangement not only benefited the staff, which was mostly comprised of students, but it further developed a relationship with some of the local schools to support internship programs.  Over the years, Holly has opened her home to numerous area college students from SUNY, Siena, and St. Rose looking to fulfill internship requirements for their degrees. Many of the students also became providers of service through CCDS. 

Together, such efforts have paid off as Holly’s son has received years of uninterrupted quality service.  Many others have also benefited from all the wonderful providers we have received because of our relationship with Holly.  Many providers still keep in touch with Holly and her family and stop by to visit when they can.  Some have even returned to CCDS seeking employment upon completion of school.

We applaud Holly for all of her advocacy and efforts on behalf of her son, and thank her for her partnership with our agency as it has assisted in providing years of service to a number of individuals with developmental disabilities.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF FULTON & MONTGOMERY COUNTIES

  Employee Award 

­ VERONICA SALVIONE ­

Veronica Salvione, Roni to all who know and work with her, has worked as a school-based counselor for Catholic Charities for over 18 years.  Veronica is a selfless individual who always puts the needs of others above her own.  She is a dedicated employee and has gone above and beyond the call of duty. 

Over the past several years, she has secured and delivered monthly donations from places such as the Wal-Mart distribution center.  These donations include diapers, paper, hygiene products, and various personal care items that are used for emergency assistance, families in her schools, as well as our agency residences and office buildings.
 
Every year Veronica identifies families who are in need around the holidays. During Thanksgiving and Christmas, she puts together and delivers meals, gifts or gift baskets for needy families.  She has helped provide whole holidays including the meal, gifts and tree for families.

In one school, Veronica helps her female students grow into positive, self-confident women through yearlong programs on self-esteem. These programs conclude with an end of the year fashion show, complete with ‘swag bags’ for all the girls who participate. The kids are treated royalty, as adults come in and do their hair and make-up, and assist them in getting dressed for the show.  The finale includes healthy foods and drinks and decorations.  Veronica works hard to get donations for the gift bags which include personal care products, t-shirts, sports equipment and other items to encourage positive growth. None of it would happen without Veronica’s dedication and hard work.

In Roni’s ‘spare time’, she is a devoted mother to her two beautiful children, Lanie and Dylan. She and her husband, Joe, enjoy boating and spending lots of time on the lake, traveling, and spending quality time with friends and family.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF FULTON & MONTGOMERY COUNTIES
 
Volunteer Award 

­ HARRY ABRAMHAMSEN ­

Harry Abramhamsen has been a volunteer mediator for Tri-County Mediation of Catholic Charities of Fulton & Montgomery Counties for 17 years.  As a mediator, Harry has traveled to mediation sites throughout Fulton, Montgomery and Schoharie Counties doing mediations and attending training sessions.  He brings an analytical mind and empathy to all mediation sessions. 

Harry is also a trained auctioneer who volunteers at fund-raiser auctions including Catholic Charities in Schoharie County.  Many not-for-profit agencies met their budget through Harry’s volunteer work.  He has also organized the social psychology classes he teaches at SUNY Cobleskill to put on auctions and carnivals in order to raise money for not-for-profits.

For many years, Harry has been Employee Assistance Program Coordinator for state employees in the Cobleskill area.  He regularly attends training sessions all over the state at his own expense.

Harry is a skilled carpenter who gives freely of his time in the summer and on weekends helping many people complete home projects.  He also volunteered and put together blood drives at SUNY Cobleskill that led all colleges in the area in percentage of students who donated blood.

It is for the above reasons that we are proud to recognize Harry’s contributions to Catholic Charities and the community. He is an ideal volunteer who lives the mission of Catholic Charities.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF HERKIMER COUNTY

Employee Award

­ JACQUELINE LaPLANTE ­

With over 18 years of service with the Herkimer County office, Jacqui is one of our most steadfast employees and before coming to Herkimer she previously worked for Catholic Charities in Greene County.

In her role as a Prevention Specialist and Student Assistance Counselor with the Herkimer County Prevention Council she works tirelessly from her position in local schools for the youth of our area.

Jacqui is more than an employee of Catholic Charities, she lives and breathes her faith and values each and every day. She personifies everything that Catholic Charities stands for. Jacqui is passionate about her work, compassionate toward the youth entrusted to her care and always the trusted and consoling co-worker. She is held in high regard both within the agency and by the schools and community that she serves. Catholic Charities of Herkimer County is so very fortunate to have Jacqui LaPlante as a member of our staff.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF HERKIMER COUNTY
 
Volunteer Award 

­ ROSEMARIE BOYER ­

Catholic Charities of Herkimer County is proud to name Rosemarie Boyer as our volunteer of the year. Rosemarie has served our Domestic Violence Program for two years as a hotline volunteer.  In her two years of providing coverage for the hotline she has donated over 2,200 hours.   She covers the overnight shift from midnight – 6:00 am, several times throughout the week.  This allows staff to rest a little easier knowing they have a volunteer to handle the non-crisis calls and is appreciated very much by the Program.  In addition to her overnight shifts she provides coverage on the weekend during the day.  She is committed to assisting victims of domestic violence and has a sincere interest in making a difference in their lives.  Her volunteering for the Program created an interest in becoming an employee and she has recently accepted the position of Volunteer Coordinator within the Domestic Violence Program.  In addition to her volunteering with Catholic Charities, she is also an active volunteer in her community having been involved with the Girl Scouts Organization, HARC, Dolgeville Youth Commission, and with the school. 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES HOUSING OFFICE

  Employee Award 

­ LUTHER HERRING ­

If you’ve had the chance to see any of this year’s Bishop’s Appeal material, be it the Evangelist full page add, or the “God’s People…Caring for Each Other” brochure, or possibly even the glossy color posters, then you’ve seen this year’s CCHO Honored Employee, Luther Herring. In those now famous (at least in our world) photos, Luther is that handsome and debonair fellow, with just the right touch of gray to elicit your confidence in his experience, but also that sporty cable knit sweater with the fashionable eyewear, that says, “man of action”…arms folded across his chest, with a clear gaze forwards and an enigmatic smile at the corners of his mouth…this is our honoree.

Luther is certainly more than another “pretty face” in the world of social services, quite the contrary. Luther is the model of what a good case manager should be. Some six years ago, Luther brought with him a unique set of experiences and “street skills”, as he had worked both as a DSS Case Worker, as well as a street outreach health care case manager. As a DSS worker, Luther had insight into what government felt was its role with the poor; as an outreach case manager to workers of the sex industry. Luther fully understood how addictions, mental illness, HIV and poverty can torture one’s soul. 

For us, Luther manages the largest caseload, with the highest acuity, in the biggest program in CCHO. He is professional; he is dedicated; he is trusted; and he may be our all-time most consistent volunteer. When New Orleans needed our help, Luther went. When Delhi Senior Community was ravaged by flood and mud, Luther cleaned. When our homeless children needed warm coats, Luther picked-up and delivered. Every year at Christmas and Thanksgiving when our homeless families need the most, Luther wraps, delivers, drives, organizes, shops and serves and has done so since day one.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF RENSSELAER COUNTY

  Employee Award 

­ SISTER LORETTA HOAG ­

For 12 years Sister Loretta has enthusiastically engaged some of the neediest people in Troy in creative arts.  Her program is unique in that it focuses on the needs of those in recovery or coping with mental illness to develop social skills, responsibility, cooperative interaction, judgment and planning.  People come in struggling to keep their lives in balance. At that point Sister Loretta takes over; animatedly involving people in doing something creative. Her repertoire of creativity in teaching, encouraging, cajoling and urging people to create and enjoy it, is extensive. Her sense of humor and playfulness adds to the atmosphere.

Sr. Loretta is one of the founding staff of the Roarke Center, which was established in 1997.  An artist in her own right , she developed the curriculum and activities for the art program. Each spring she organizes an art exhibit at RPI where the work of her students can be displayed.  It is open to the public and often people purchase the art work – a big boost to the artists’ self-esteem. Sister Loretta looks for opportunities to involve her art students in community activities. They have gone to Emma Willard and public schools where the adult students and children learn from each other.  During the last Friday of the month, Roarke Center is open for Troy Night Out so that the public can view the art work and workshop in action.  Sister Loretta takes students to the Daughters of Charity’s infirmary to teach water colors to the elderly sisters, which both the sisters and students enjoy. They are major participants in the Schaghticoke County Fair, as well, usually returning with many 1st and 2nd prizes for their works.

Sister Loretta participates in a Re-entry program three times a month by going to the County Jail to present an art activity as a trust builder for the women to introduce them to the Roarke Connection’s program.  Her ideas and skills seem to have no limits as she and her students daily create new projects.

Sr. Loretta’s dedication to the needs of the people of Catholic Charities of Rensselaer County/Roarke Center is well known and appreciated by all.  

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF RENSSELAER COUNTY

  Volunteer Award 

­SUSAN PHILLIPS ­

Susan Phillips has been an active board member of Catholic Charities of Rensselaer County for several years and is a pleasure to work with. She is employed full time with First Niagara Bank and somehow finds time to not only be on the Board of Directors but also volunteers her services on fundraisers such as the annual Gala, Christmas Adopt-A-Child and the Troy Victorian Stroll. 

Sue utilizes her business acumen as a financial consultant to watch over our investments and always offers sound investment advice. When planning and executing successful fundraisers, Sue exhibits initiative, imagination, diplomacy and collaboration which are key ingredients. Sue is someone the Board can always count on to get the job done!

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF
SARATOGA, WARREN & WASHINGTON COUNTIES

  Employee Award

­ NANCY TOOLE ­

Nancy Toole has been with Catholic Charities since 1994, first as Clinical Supervisor in Warren and Washington Counties and then assuming the position of Associate Director when Saratoga and Warren and Washington Counties came together in 1996. Her knowledge of the north country, as well as her guidance and steadying influence, were invaluable during the many transitions of the merger.

As Associate Director, Nancy manages several diverse roles and responsibilities: clinician, Clinical Supervisor, Program Administrator, liaison with external collaborators, as well as being the agency’s internal computer specialist. She is a highly skilled clinician who is respected by clients and staff alike. In her role as supervisor, she continues to lead a superior clinical team to achieve ever greater standards of professional excellence, while delivering compassionate care to poor and vulnerable families seeking services not available elsewhere. Programmatically, she is astute in analyzing systems and procedures while simultaneously assessing productivity and current trends. Nancy’s supportive and direct input has influenced staff to realize programmatic and personal growth and development.

Nancy is a highly valued member of the agency’s administrative team where she brings integrity, insight and critical thinking to the table. She is a self initiator, while accepting additional duties when asked, with apparent ease and grace. She is supportive and collaborative , sharing insights, ideas, and suggestions openly and willingly. Her delightful sense of humor infuses all that she does.

Nancy Toole is an exemplary Catholic Charities employee. Her integrity and ethical sensitivity permeate her work. She is a consummate professional dedicated to the mission and values of the agency and the system as a whole. The Board and staff of CCSWW are proud to publicly acknowledge the gift she is to each of us and the people we are privileged to serve.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF
SARATOGA, WARREN & WASHINGTON COUNTIES

  Volunteer Award 

­MARCIA OKOSKY & JACKIE SAXTON ­

The Saratoga Festival of Trees, having completed its 13th year, is the agency’s most successful and profitable fundraiser. Behind the scenes, corporate sponsors, individual donors, and countless volunteers have banded together to create a magical, wonder-filled event that has over the years become a Saratoga tradition. Themes of friendship and community are renewed as event sponsors give generously, volunteers work tirelessly and long, so that festival goers may take in the winter fantasy of delightfully decorated trees, wreathes and centerpieces.

Marcia Okosky and Jackie Saxton have been sharing their artistic talents with the Festival of Trees since its inception in 1995. They have designed and donated hundreds of exceptionally crafted wreathes and centerpieces to the festival. Festival goers come back year after year looking for “Okosky and Saxton Originals”. Additionally, both Marcia and Jackie give advice, creative suggestions and technical assistance to other volunteer donors, individually and in groups. Items that don’t sell are often taken home to be reworked for next year’s event. Soon after Christmas, both women may be seen in local department stores, arts and crafts shops, and similar other venues seeking post holiday sales in preparation for the coming year.

With a myriad of personal, family, business and civic responsibilities, these two women give of their time, treasure and talent in service of the mission of Catholic Charities. Their contributions help us to continue much needed programming and services in the tri-county region. We appreciate them for who they are and what they do, and publicly extend our grateful appreciation.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SCHENECTADY COUNTY
  
Employee Award 

­ PAT FINLAYSON ­

Pat Finlayson has worked for Catholic Charities of Schenectady County for 8 years.  Initially hired as a Caseworker in the Aging Services Program, she assisted low income seniors access services and benefits to improve the quality of their lives.  Presently she is the Coordinator of the Health Insurance Information, Assistance and Counseling Program (HIICAP) for Schenectady County.  As Coordinator, Pat is responsible to assist Medicare beneficiaries understand the Medicare Part D prescription drug benefit, Medicare rules and insurance options in order for each individual to access the most affordable health insurance and prescription  coverage that best meets their needs. In 2008, HIICAP provided assistance to more than 300 beneficiaries.

The counseling process includes a review of the client’s anticipated insurance coverage needs and their ability to pay for a plan.  Options are discussed.  Assistance is provided to secure coverage.  Pat effectively supervises volunteers who provide essential assistance by gathering initial information and matching needs with insurance plan coverage. As the rules and regulations that govern Medicare and related programs change regularly, Pat has developed close working relationships with staff from state and federal agencies that have oversight of these programs.  She utilizes their knowledge and expertise to ensure that staff and volunteers receive current information and resources.

Pat is a strong advocate for clients.  Due to the complex nature of these programs, problems that arise can be very difficult to resolve. Pat is tenacious in her efforts to do so and embraces the challenges of this position with a sincere commitment to help all Medicare beneficiaries.  She is diligent in her efforts to help clients and colleagues sort through the complexities of these programs in order to receive or maintain the insurance and prescription drug coverage that is so vital to the clients’ health and wellbeing.

Pat is a pleasure to work with.  Her ready smile and great sense of humor brighten the days of clients and co-workers alike.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SCHENECTADY COUNTY

  Volunteer Award 

­ ANNE LaROCHE ­

Anne LaRoche has been a board member of Catholic Charities of Schenectady County for the past eight years. She has served on the finance, personnel, fund raising and executive committees of the board. Anne has served as president of the board for the past two years.

Anne demonstrated by her actions a strong commitment to the mission of Catholic Charities. She is a soft spoken woman who focuses her energies on helping others. She has been a dedicated and caring board member. She is always willing to extend a helping hand in handling whatever tasks that come her way. She is highly respected by her peers on the board.

Anne is employed as the Manager of Technology and Information Systems at Knolls Atomic Power Lab – Lockheed Martin.  She and her husband Ray reside in the Stockade section of the city of Schenectady.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY

  Employee Award 

­ MARIA BULLOCK ­

Maria, in her 19th year of service, has been as much a gift to clients as she is to staff at Catholic Charities.  In her counselor role, she creates a welcoming safe environment and empowers clients to discover the answers within.  As clinical director, she educates staff and provides the tools for them to be effective listeners and wise decision makers.  Maria does all this by modeling the very attitudes and behaviors she preaches.  Despite a heavy caseload of couples, domestic violence victims, and adolescents, Maria always seems to have time for others and her generous spirit and commitment to wellness is contagious. 

Maria, thanks for saying yes to empowering people to be all they can be. 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SCHOHARIE COUNTY

Employee Award 

­ TONI JOSLIN ­

Toni Joslin, who has been with us for 20 years, is the backbone of Catholic Charities in Schoharie County.  Her willingness to do whatever needs to be done is an example to every staff member at Catholic Charities.  During a time of staff departures, Toni took on added responsibilities and continued to perform all tasks with a high degree of excellence, even mastering financial operations.  When she is not overseeing a myriad of administrative functions, she is directing our food pantry and extra helpings programs, finding time to visit with our clients and showing the respect and dignity that is at the core of our mission.  Toni keeps processes on task and her time management skills are second to none. As an administrator, Toni’s behind the scenes work allows our staff to devote more time and energy to their clients.  As a food pantry manager, Toni’s hospitality and care set a wonderful example of service with dignity. 

COMMUNITY MATERNITY SERVICES

  Employee Award 

­ TAMIKA LAWYER ­

Tamika Lawyer has been working at Community Maternity Services (CMS) since 1998 when she started as the Supervised Independent Living Caseworker for our residential programs.  Over the years, both her responsibilities and her commitment to serving CMS clients have increased. Tamika personifies the meaning of teamwork and the mission of Catholic Charities.  Her upbeat attitude is contagious and her fun loving personality brings laughter and levity to clients and colleagues alike.  Tamika is well respected and loved by her co-workers and is always there to lend a helping hand or a shoulder to cry on.  She has a wonderful understanding of human nature and the forces that go into the choices we make.  She is a fierce advocate for our girls and families and is always able to point out their strengths and continually encourages all of us to look at all sides of the picture.   As a result she has an ability to quickly gain the trust of our clients and their families.  She has a gift for connecting with and relating to our girls in a way that lets them know how much she cares about them. She is able to effectively engage even the most difficult personalities.  She holds the girls accountable for their choices and actions while at the same time treating them with respect and compassion.  It is not unusual for former clients to seek her out after they have been discharged from CMS. 

COMMUNITY MATERNITY SERVICES

Volunteer Award

­ JANICE & BILL KNAPP ­

Janice and Bill Knapp have been foster parents with Community Maternity Services since July 1990. In the nineteen years they have been certified with CMS, they have provided care for 59 children.  Janice and Bill started as foster parents in the Infant Boarding Care Program providing care for newborns whose birth parents were involved with CMS to make an adoption plan.  However, as placements in that program decreased, Janice and Bill opened their home to children who were placed with CMS by Albany County Department of Children Youth and Families.  These were children who had experienced maltreatment in their family home.  Janice and Bill opened their home to these children without hesitancy, and continue to do so today.  They provide a safe nurturing environment for these children to heal and re-build their relationship with their parents.  Janice brings the children to the agency for visits with their birth parents, sometimes 2 or 3 times per week.  She helps the children connect with their parents; she informs the birth parents about milestones and other accomplishments that have occurred since the last visit.  Janice can be observed modeling parenting skills for birth parents and sharing pictures with the birth parent of their child.

Prior to becoming foster parents with CMS, Janice was a volunteer at Farano Center, another program of CMS and Albany Medical Center preemie nursery.  The Knapps were also a resource to families in crisis through the agency’s Crisis Nursery Program and a respite program for children of parents who were suffering from a chronic health diagnosis.

The Knapps have been married for 37 years.  They are the proud parents of four children; Bill, Andrew, Ryan and Angelique. Bill and Janice have touched many lives through their generosity and opening their hearts and their home.  

DIOCESAN HOUSING & PROPERTY
MANAGEMENT SERVICES

  Employee Award 

­ JILL McLELLAN PHELPS ­

Nearly 20 years ago, Jill McLellan Phelps started her career with Catholic Charities and the Diocese of Albany as a counselor and swimming instructor at Camp Scully. That summer job at “Scully” was the beginning of Jill McLellan Phelps’s journey.

From her counselor days, through her time as the Administrative Assistant at DePaul Housing, the Property Management Assistant at McCloskey, to the time of her promotion to the newly created Director of Operations position at DePaul Housing (a job she learned while also training a new Executive Director at DePaul Housing),  on to today and her service as the Director of Housing Administration and CC Senior Services in Schenectady’s Aging Services, Nutrition and Transportation Programs, Jill always believed that it is her job to be a caring listener when a resident or staff member is going through a bad time; to be a cheerleader for staff; to be a smiling face for her colleagues; to be an organizer of activities that help to remind us of the privilege it is to be part of the Diocesan and Catholic Charities families. 

Jill has the uncanny ability to recognize what’s important, prioritize needs, and deftly and sensitively muster her resources and pull a plan of action together .and then lead by example. Probably two of the best examples of Jill’s talents in this area were the devastating flood of the Delhi Senior Community a few years back, and the most recent fire at the offices of CC of Schenectady.

In Delhi, Jill hammered away at the “powers that be” to convince them that the Delhi Senior Community must be rebuilt, that the tenants must return to their homes, and that there must be long term planning to insure Delhi’s survival for years to come. Jill’s persistence resulted in over one million grant dollars to insure Delhi’s continuance and it is better today than ever.  In Schenectady, as soon as Jill arrived on the scene, she recognized the sense of loss that the staff were all feeling, but she also recognized that there was work to be done to keep the vital programs and services going.  Tying her sweater to her waist, pulling pen and paper from her “Crisis Folder” (something her husband Matt helped her organize)…instructions began to fly. In both of these situations, Jill’s hours of hard work were “on top” of her regular duties and not in her job description.

HISPANIC OUTREACH SERVICES

Employee Award

­ NILDA GIRALDI ­

Nilda Giraldi, currently Associate Executive Director of Hispanic Outreach Services, has served in all capacities within the agency over the past 21 years. Nilda’s years of dedication to the Hispanic community include: school tutoring, youth enrichment, family advocacy, empowerment, immigration rights, minority health education, and women’s rights. Nilda continues to strive for excellence in the Hispanic communities of Albany, Amsterdam, Schenectady and Troy.

She is one of the founders and a current board member of the Amsterdam Valley Rural Housing Association founded 1991. Nilda served as Vice President of the Amsterdam Spanish American Club and is a volunteer at St. Luke’s Church soup kitchen.

Currently, Nilda serves on the Fulton, Montgomery, Otsego, Schoharie Healthy Living Partnership and Minority Health Disparities task force and is a member of the Capital Region 100 Hispanic Women, Inc., Trainer for the Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican, Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute.

Nilda was chosen for this award because she has lived out the mission of Catholic Charities and Hispanic Outreach Services through all her years of dedication and service to the Hispanic community.

HISPANIC OUTREACH SERVICES

Volunteer Award

­ NICOLE M. NEGRON ­

Nicole Negron has served as a volunteer since she was 13 yrs. old. Currently, she is a 10th grader in Amsterdam High School.

Nicole is highly motivated. She dedicates her school vacations and summer months to Hispanic Outreach Services. She assists with office administration, summer camp preparations and is also a junior camp counselor. In addition, Nicole volunteers in the after school tutorial programs.

Once a month Nicole provides child care services while HOS conducts a women’s group for single mothers. For the past two years, Nicole has walked in the Capital Region Latino Parade with the HOS staff. She also likes to volunteer at the soup kitchen.

Nicole is on the Amsterdam High School & the City of Amsterdam’s Girls JV Softball Team, tennis and basketball teams. She is in the Girl Scouts and enjoys spending time with her family. Nicole’s dream is to be a pilot. She has applied to Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology College in Flushing, NY.

Nicole was chosen for this award because of all her accomplishments and dedication to the community. Hispanic Outreach Services wishes her well in her endeavors.

UNITED TENANTS OF ALBANY

  Employee Award 

­ SANDRA LeVAN ­

For fourteen years, United Tenants of Albany has been so very fortunate to have Sandy LeVan as a staff member.  Sandy has an unswerving commitment to the mission of United Tenants which she carries out with superb mediation and advocacy skills, a deep compassion for those we serve, and an incredible sense of humor. Sandy responds to the most challenging cases with an amazing level of patience.  She has assisted hundreds of people in avoiding homelessness through her diligence, skillful intervention techniques, and her willingness to go way beyond that extra mile for her clients. Sandy has also rescued many stray cats, dogs, birds, and squirrels and some of these rescued creatures like “Rocky the Squirrel” have taken up permanent residence in the backyard of our office building.
          
Sandy defines what is meant by advocacy.  She is well respected by landlords, attorneys, judges, and social workers as well as the low-income tenants she helps because of the integrity and abiding sense of justice with which she treats all people.

UNITED TENANTS OF ALBANY

  Volunteer Award 

­ STEPHEN WINTERS ­

Stephen Winters has been involved with United Tenants of Albany for over twenty years.  Steve has helped with fund-raising activities, currently serves as Secretary on the Board of Directors, and, on numerous occasions has lent his voice to chants for housing justice at rallies locally and in Washington, D.C.   In his professional life, Steve served as Executive Director of the Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless for many years prior to a lengthy term as Executive Director of the South End Improvement Corporation.  His volunteer efforts have assisted many community, neighborhood, and homeless organizations throughout the Albany area.  His interpersonal and organizational skills have helped to build a true sense of community in the Second Avenue neighborhood where he lives.

United Tenants has benefited from Stephen Winters enthusiasm, his willingness to always “lend a hand”, and his strong sense of justice.