GOOD SAMARITAN AWARDS PRESENTED

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Trina Dietz
Communications Coordinator
Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud
320.650.1644
trina.dietz@ccstcloud.org

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud recently presented its annual Good Samaritan Awards to two recipients: Barb & Art Grachek and Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Recipients are recognized for following the example of the biblical “Good Samaritan” by helping those who are less fortunate without an expected reward.

Art Grachek began volunteering with Catholic Charities when he was a college student. Today, he and his wife Barb, both retired professors from St. Cloud State, support Catholic Charities with their, time talent, and treasure. Barb has served on Catholic Charities Board of Directors, and the couple volunteer at Catholic Charities Food Shelf, holiday programs and fundraising committees. Perhaps the Grachek’s biggest impact has been on Catholic Charities programs for children with mental health, where they often see and respond to immediate needs with gifts of treasure. “There is such a depth of need in this community,” said Barb. “I don’t know that people are aware of that.”

Barb & Art Grachek’s nomination video can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVV4Pd9jIPo&feature=youtu.be

For nearly two decades, a bond has been growing between the congregation of Bethlehem Lutheran Church and Catholic Charities. “Bethlehem has always had a heart for looking at the needs of people in the community,” said Pastor Dee Pederson. “Human needs are important to us. Welcoming all people is a value for Catholic Charities, and is a value for our congregation.”

Congregation members have consistently supported Catholic Charities by making quits, collecting food, volunteering at the food shelf and other fundraisers, and by donating funds. Their gracious gift of time and talent have made a large impact on Catholic Charities Emergency Services and other programs.

Bethlehem Lutheran Church’s nomination video can be viewed at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1YM0qdo7hvQ&feature=youtu.

Catholic Charities is a nonprofit organization that advances the charitable and social mission of the Diocese of St. Cloud. It builds communities, promotes family life, and enhances human dignity by providing quality services to meet the physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs of individuals and families of all faiths and beliefs.