Everyone has a story in life. The personal stories shared here show how people's lives have been transformed by the power of giving and receiving. We hope you are inspired to a life of generosity, and that you will share your story as well as these with others.
Sophie
Sophie Kosem, a member of St. Mary Parish in Collinwood, has been extraordinarily generous to the Diocese of Cleveland. Both she and her brother, Fr. Frank Kosem, are members of the Heritage Society, having made...Patricia
Patricia Washington loves to cheer people up and make them feel better. For the past 26 years, Pat has worked as an STNA (nursing assistant) for Catholic Charities at St. Augustine Health Campus, located on...Sam Miller
As so many individuals and families struggle to meet their basic needs during the COVID-19 pandemic, Catholic Charities faces an increasing demand to assist people hit hardest by the crisis - those who are already...The Majernik Family
“We knew from the time Kylie was born that we were going to send her to a Catholic school,” says Becky Majernik. Catholic education was an important part of Becky’s own upbringing, and her husband...Dr. Debbie Brindza
Dr. Debbie Brindza grew up in Garfield Heights and places a high value on Catholic education. A pediatrician, Debbie has deep compassion and concern for children and young adults. She believes Catholic education gives children...Anne
Anne Kohler became a member of the Heritage Society so she could create a legacy through a gift from her estate to Catholic Charities. “I always felt a link with Catholic Charities,” she says. “I...Esther
Esther has fond memories of growing up in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. “We had a community where everyone was like family,” she says. That changed around 2006, when civil war broke out. When...Fr. Andy Gonzalez
Fr. Andy Gonzalez doesn’t know exactly how his mission will unfold, but he plans to follow the path set before him with a single purpose. “My hope is to encounter Christ in the heart of...Cynthia
“I guess it was God,” Cynthia Roberts responds when asked how she got involved with St. John the Baptist Recovery Outreach Center in Akron. “I’ve struggled with addiction, and I’ve worked with women who have...Diane
As someone who manages money for others, Diane Stack makes it a point to keep track of her own finances, making sure there are funds available to donate to worthy causes. “I feel confident in...