Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens (CCBQ) marked a milestone in its history by raising over $2 million during its annual fundraiser, the 2024 Bishop’s Humanitarian Award Dinner.
The fundraiser was held on Thursday, Sept. 26, at Cipriani Wall Street. The event celebrated 125 years of service, with proceeds benefiting the agency’s 160+ programs and services that support those in need.
Most Reverend Robert J. Brennan, Bishop of Brooklyn, co-chaired the event and highlighted the organization’s enduring impact. “In a special way, we celebrate the 125th anniversary of the founding of a wonderful organization,” Bishop Brennan said. “Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens has a long-standing tradition of serving the most vulnerable among us, embodying the values of faith, hope, and charity in all that they do. Let us work together to ensure that every individual we encounter knows they are seen, valued, and loved. Our work is not done until every person in Brooklyn and Queens can live with dignity, security, and hope.”
Reverend Monsignor Alfred P. LoPinto, president and CEO of CCBQ, emphasized the critical role of donor support in advancing the organization’s mission. “Your support tonight and throughout the year is so vital in enabling us to continue providing our neighbors with the helping hand they need to get back on their feet again,” he said.
The evening’s honorees were celebrated for their dedication to the community and embodiment of service. Thomas J. Grech, president and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, and Robert J. Pape, Jr., of The Paul L. Martin Charitable Trust, were honored with the Bishop’s Humanitarian Award, given annually to individuals who demonstrate a deep personal commitment to the well-being of the diocese’s residents.
Francesca Yellico, executive director of Bridge to Life, received the Ubi Caritas Award, which recognizes those who provide selfless support for human services, reflecting the belief that charity is a heartfelt response to God’s love.
Vincent D. LeVien, director of external affairs at DeSales Media Group, was recognized with the Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan Service Award, which pays tribute to individuals who, like Bishop Sullivan, have devoted their lives to enhancing the welfare of New Yorkers.
Very Reverend Patrick J. Keating, Esq., deputy CEO of Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens, highlighted the significance of their contributions. “The lives and work of our honorees exemplify the spirit of compassion and selflessness,” Keating remarked. “They have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to service and justice.”
The evening also included a special recognition of two longtime staff members, Leocadia Hernandez and Brenda Rodriguez, who were presented with the 2024 John J. Farrell Award for 30 years of service to Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens.
Attendees enjoyed a mini-documentary celebrating CCBQ’s 125 years of transformative work in Brooklyn and Queens, a silent auction, and entertainment by Joe Piscopo.
Reverend Monsignor Robert J. Romano, pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Brooklyn and assistant chief chaplain for the NYPD, served as Master of Ceremonies. Reverend Monsignor John Bracken, 125th Anniversary Dinner Committee Chair and pastor of St. Francis De Sales in Queens, commenced the evening with an invocation, while Bishop Emeritus Nicholas DiMarzio concluded the event with a benediction.
