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Our Mission

Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse is dedicated to caring for those in need while promoting human development, collaboration, and the elimination of poverty and injustice. We strive to empower those served to transform their lives in the spirit of God’s love and compassion. 

Come see what we're all about

Originally founded in the 1930s as an adoption agency, Catholic Charities of Oswego County has evolved into a midsize human service agency providing many valuable programs and services to children, families, and individuals. These wide-ranging programs touch the lives of thousands of people in communities throughout Oswego County. 


What is known as Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Syracuse began in 1923. Bishop Daniel Curly was the third Bishop of the Syracuse Diocese and under this direction. Catholic Charities formally began. Catholic Charities was incorporated two years later to carry on the corporal works of mercy in Central New York. The mission of Catholic Charities has not changed a great deal since 1923, many of its activities and policies have developed in a manner that has helped to more effectively minister and respond to the problems of the day.


The ’20s and 30’s saw the growth of offices in Syracuse, Utica, Binghamton, and Oswego with core services placing a great emphasis on adoptions, counseling, and emergency assistance.


As time went on, Catholic Charities grew in the Diocese so that it is presently felt throughout the Diocese by six area offices covering Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Onondaga, Oneida-Madison, and Oswego Counties.


Our Team

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Mary Margaret Pekow:

Executive Director

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Karen Davies-Buckley:

Program Director

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Ken Dennison

Building Safety Manager

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Lori Perrault

Corporate Compliance Officer

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Barbara McCann

Executive Administrator

Board of Directors

Every member of our board of directors is a thought leader who has made significant contributions to our society. 

Each one brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our organization. 

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 Ms. Alexandra Fitzpatrick

Chair

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Mr. Sean Broderick

Vice Chair

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Mr. Kurt D’Angelo 

Treasurer

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Ms. Lynn Toth

Secretary

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Ms. Melissa Keller

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Mr. Steve Chirello

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Mr. Jeffrey Dean

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 Ms. Gail Cooper

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Mr. Dan Phillips

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 Ms. Stephanie Davis

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 Ms. Amber Verity

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 Ms. Allison Kanaley Trudell

Code of Ethics

The Code of Ethics serves as a guide to the organizational behavior and responsibilities of the staff and the agency, in carrying out the mission of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Syracuse and its member Agencies. This Code of Ethics shall be adhered to by all Employees, Volunteers and Board members of Catholic Charities, and used to apply ethical reflection to our work, policies, operations and service to the community.



Code of Ethics

Our Partners

Work alongside us to create positive changes in our community.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do You have to be Catholic to Receive Our Services?

    No, Catholic Charities is an accessible organization that touches many lives and offers services to people of all denominations.


  • Do You Have to Know About the Catholic Religion to Work as a Volunteer With Catholic Charities?

    No, to be a volunteer or an employee, the only things you must possess are love, caring, and understanding for other people. We are proud of each of our many volunteers, and our employees.

  • Are Catholic Charities’ Services Designed For or Targeted At Specific Age Groups?

    Catholic Charities provides services for all ages. Among other services, we have a food pantry and children’s Afternoon Recreation Program (CYO)

  • How qualified is the Catholic Charities’ Staff?

    Our Staff is highly trained, educated and certified. Our mission is to provide clients with the highest degree of professionalism and caring.

  • What Makes Catholic Charities Stand Out From Other Organizations?

    We have a reputation for providing high quality services, flexibility, an open atmosphere, and respect for the dignity of each individual who comes to our agency for assistance.

  • Is Catholic Charities Administered by a Clergyman?

    No, but many years ago it was. Today, we are managed with the help of many dedicated religious and lay workers.

  • What Is The Biggest Issue That Catholic Charities Faces?

    We continue to struggle to work toward eliminating the root causes of poverty that envelops so many individuals. Poverty continues to persist in our society today. Through our Catholic social teachings, Catholic Charities respects the worth and dignity of every individual that seeks our assistance.

  • Do you charge for your services?

    No, our services are offered free to our clients.


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