In April, Catholic Charities serving Larimer and Weld Counties celebrated the beating heart of our ministries: our volunteers.
During National Volunteer Appreciation Month, dedicated folks from ministries across Northern Colorado joined us for the third annual volunteer appreciation event. Held at Our Lady of the Valley parish in Windsor, the gathering brought together volunteers from Samaritan House Fort Collins, Samaritan House Greeley, Marisol Family St. Joseph and Marisol Health Northern Colorado. It was our best turnout yet—a testament to the strength and spirit of this incredible community.
Guests enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by the chefs at Samaritan House Fort Collins and Samaritan House Greeley. Local businesses added to the celebration by donating door prizes, including gifts from The Kress Cinema, Fort Collins Nursery, Ginger and Baker and Margie’s Java Joint.
The event’s highlight was the presentation of volunteer awards, honoring those who go above and beyond in their service. Each award represents a unique contribution to the mission—recognizing consistency, compassion, leadership and the ability to bring hope where it’s needed most.
Congratulations to our 2024-25 honorees:
Denise Benz – Roots of Care Award, Marisol Health Northern Colorado
For her early and enduring presence that has helped Marisol Health grow strong – serving with heart, skill and vision.
Ellen Buelow – Bridge of Care Award, Marisol Family St. Joseph
For warmly bridging language and cultural gaps, serving Spanish-speaking families with compassion and an eager heart.
Gene Downey – Devoted Spirit Award, Samaritan House Fort Collins
For his unwavering commitment, even on holidays, exemplifying the true heart of service and dedication to our mission.
Nina Franczak – Steadfast Service Award, Marisol Family St. Joseph
For her consistent presence and quiet dedication uplift our mission daily through faithful, ongoing service.
Deb Gillan – Boutique Builder Award, Marisol Family St. Joseph
For her creativity and care which transformed our boutique space into a place of dignity and delight for every family who walks into Marisol Family.
Steph Hardon – Kitchen Cornerstone Award, Samaritan House Fort Collins
For her years of service in our kitchen which have made her an essential part of the team – steady, skilled and always ready to nourish others.
Kelly Krapes – Ambassador of Hope Award, Marisol Health Northern Colorado
For her willingness to represent our brand with heart, helping to amplify our impact through word and witness.
Susan Labonde – Helping Hands Award, Samaritan House Greeley
For her willingness to step up whenever and wherever is needed.
Tim Lenczycki – All-Heart Award, Samaritan House Fort Collins
For his joyful presence, flexibility and commitment – always ready to serve wherever needed.
Norma Perez – Transformational Service Award, Samaritan House Greeley
For her dedication helping the distribution center to evolve and ensuring that essential items are accessible to the community.
Tom Quammen – First Responder Award, Samaritan House Greeley
For his readiness to step up and provide essential supplies without hesitation.
One volunteer reflected, “Many of us give time to different organizations, but Catholic Charities is the one place where we truly feel appreciated.”
To every volunteer—whether you serve in a kitchen, shelter, clinic or behind the scenes—thank you. You are a face of hope in Northern Colorado. Because of all of you, we continue to support neighbors and transform lives.