Franciscans of Siena College to be Honored by Catholic Charities

Albany, NY – On Thursday, June 20, 2024, Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany will honor the Franciscans of Siena College at their 12th annual fundraising event. The Franciscan Community of Siena College will be recognized for their commitment to education and instilling the values of justice and service in every individual who passes through their doors.

This year’s Gala for Good, formerly known as Night at the Museum, will be an evening highlighting the mission of Catholic Charities and celebrating the good they are able to do with the support of the community. Gala for Good will be held at Siena College. Proceeds from the evening will support the vital programs and services that Catholic Charities provides across their 14-county region, including: affordable housing, food insecurity programs and other nutritional services, family and child support programs, services for survivors of domestic violence, and other human services programs targeted at eliminating poverty.

“The Franciscan Community at Siena College is an inspiration to thousands of students and alumni of Siena College and imbues in the Capital Region and beyond their commitment to justice and peace, Catholic Social Teaching and the value of community,” said Sister Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany. “We are thrilled to be honoring the Franciscan Friars this year with the Catholic Charities Award!”

“The Friars of St. Bernardine of Siena Fraternity at Siena College proudly support Catholic Charities of Albany. We admire and affirm the many ways Catholic Charities calls forth and collaborates with our community to serve and empower all persons in need,” said Father Mark G. Reamer, OFM, “As Francis of Assisi kissed the leper of his day, Catholic Charities recognizes and brings forth the human dignity of all people today embracing especially the economically poor and vulnerable. Together we are partners in ministry, committed to building a world that is more just, peaceable, and humane. We are humbled to be recognized by Catholic Charities.”

The Franciscan Communitiy’s long-standing contributions have supported many crucial programs, ensuring that life-sustaining resources are available for the individuals who need them. Moreover, through their teachings at Siena College, they have inspired the same philanthropic

purpose in countless other individuals, expanding the community that provides vital support to Catholic Charities’ initiatives.

About Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany is one of the largest, private social services organizations in the region. Serving 14 counties across 10,000 square miles, Catholic Charities serves and empowers people in need, regardless of race, creed, religion, or lifestyle, and advocates for a just society, collaborating with people of good will. Last year, approximately 100,000 people turned to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany for assistance. Through the generous support of donors and the community, we are able to assist our neighbors who are the poor and vulnerable with housing, food, emergency assistance, disabilities services, senior services, and much more. To learn more, go to: www.ccrcda.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ccrcda/ Twitter: @CC_Albany