fbpx
CC_geo_ko_WHITE

The Catholic Charities 26th Annual Loaves & Fishes Gala, held on Thursday, October 5, 2023, welcomed over 400 guests at the Westin St. Francis. The evening kicked off with a cocktail reception, silent auction and entertainment by cellist Carlo Maynez and guitarist Robert Grant. Guests at the formal program were treated to a special tribute to Faith in Action honorees Jack and Marie Fitzpatrick by the Archbishop Riordan Marching Band, which represents the best of the high school band experience. Auctioneer and Master of Ceremonies Liam Mayclem welcomed the audience, and Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone gave the dinner blessing. Special remarks were made by Catholic Charities CEO Ellen Hammerle, Ph.D., and Board President Joe Boerio, while violinist Yiran Yao provided atmosphere music for guests as they mixed and mingled. 

The program continued with a special tribute by the Jackie Flynn Irish Dance Academy for honorees Jack and Marie Fitzpatrick. Kathy Grogan, Catholic Charities Board member presented Jack and Marie with the Faith in Action Award for their exemplary service to the community. Proclamations were also awarded from Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor London Breed. 

The live auction and Fund a Mission helped raise much needed funds for the 35 programs of Catholic Charities, which is celebrating 170 years and now serves 70,000 in need in Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo counties.

13 Parish Ambassadors were recognized with the Heart of the Community award and 5 Catholic Charities employees received Milestone Employee awards for over 30 years of service.

Community and special guests included: Jack and Marie Fitzpatrick, The Gellert Board of Directors Bob Grassilli, Chris Whelan, Mike King and Kevin Flynn, Archbishop Cordileone, Maureen Sullivan, Michael Thoresen of the Thoresen Foundation, former 49er star Bill Ring and Connie Ring, Mario Alioto, Joanne Hayes White, Clint & Janet Reilly, Bishop Justice, Fr Paul Fitzgerald, Fr Charlie Gagan, Consul General Micheal Smith, Sharon McCarthy Allen, Larry & Sergio Nibbi, Jim and Gerry Sangiacomo and many others.

Together, we can – the evening’s theme was highlighted with an extraordinary community of friends, partners, colleagues, and philanthropists – all committed to changing lives and humbly serving all.

We hope to see you again next  year!