A Message from the Chairman of the Board of Trustees

John J. Phelan, Jr.

Dear Friends:

In New York, in our nation and in our homes, we are confronting serious challenges. Catholic Charities serves as a bright light during this difficult time.

With a steadfastness that eluded other institutions, Catholic Charities eased the pain so many have undergone during this economic downturn. Catholic Charities stretched resources to feed, shelter and support thousands who had no place else to turn.

Our new Archbishop, the Most Reverend Timothy M. Dolan, built on the legacy of Edward Cardinal Egan by supporting and promoting the work of Catholic Charities to help New Yorkers in need. I was grateful for the opportunity Cardinal Egan gave me to serve as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Catholic Charities. I am pleased to work with Archbishop Dolan to continue our efforts to serve the poor, troubled, frail and oppressed of all religions.

None of this would be possible without the leadership of Catholic Charities’ Board of Trustees. The board and our generous benefactors ensure the integrity and quality of Catholic Charities programs and help raise resources required for Catholic Charities to provide its vast array of services to non-Catholics and Catholics alike.

Day in and day out, our dedicated staff, those who work in our residences and camps, counsel those in need and serve as executives overseeing multiple programs, functions as the heart of the help Catholic Charities provides.

I urge you to look through this annual report and be inspired by Catholic Charities compassionate concern for so many throughout this great metropolitan area.

Join us in helping our neighbors in need.

Sincerely,

John J. Phelan, Jr.

Chairman, Board of Trustees

Read John J. Phelan, Jr.'s Bio