From Therapy to Table: A Testimony From the CEO

“Did you see the smile on little Catalya’s face when we brought in the birthday cake?” my volunteer partner asked. I replied, “And did you see the smiles of her six older siblings as well?” Delivering groceries, a warm smile, and prayers to seven families in need was the highlight of our Saturday morning home visits — God’s fingerprints were all over this encounter.

Our Counseling Team provides mental health services in 14 diocesan Catholic schools, serving students from all socio-economic backgrounds. During a school visit, a principal told me some children struggle with food insecurity, which affects their ability to focus and learn, and is linked to anxiety, depression, and stress. I promised to bring food from our South Bend food pantry to families in crisis and to work on more sustainable solutions. That’s how we met Catalya and her siblings. Every Saturday, their mom  works, trying to make ends meet.

Before becoming CEO, I joined the Board of Directors, inspired by the Gospel message to serve the vulnerable. At the time, there was talk of winding down our mental health services due to financial challenges, but the need for faith-based counseling and mental health support was increasing dramatically. Bishop Rhoades encouraged us to not only continue with these services, but to strengthen it. Today, five years later, our impact is greater than ever.

At Catholic Charities, we are more than a program. We are the hands and feet of Christ, called to serve those most in need. 

The demand for our Counseling Program remains high, especially for those without insurance. As Mental Health Awareness Month approaches, please consider supporting our Hope to Healing campaign, so we can continue to meet these vital needs.

Yours in Christ,

Dan Florin

CEO of Catholic Charities

Hope to Healing Appeal

Catholic Charities' Hope to Healing Counseling provides faith-based mental health services to schools, parishes, and families in our diocese. With thousands in our community facing mental health challenges, this program offers uniquely Catholic care. Last year, 832 individuals received important healthcare for their mind.

Your generosity can help expand these vital services. Every gift makes a difference: $500 funds a month of counseling, $250 supports a workshop, and $100 helps families access resources. Please donate today to bring hope and healing: 

Spotlight: Helping Schools in Need

Driven by our mission, Catholic Charities is providing critical counseling services at deeply discounted rates to underserved schools due to the urgent needs of students.

While serving at one of these schools, a Catholic Charities counselor discovered that a student’s frequent behavioral issues stemmed from a lack of language tools to express his needs. Counseling revealed the student’s frustration with communication, leading to disruptive behavior. By addressing this gap in his native language, the counselor helped him express himself and manage emotions. This breakthrough not only improved the student’s behavior but also empowered him to engage more positively in both academic and social settings.