For Immediate Release April 13, 2012

Contact: Roger Conner (703) 236-6218 (301) 252-7912

Catholic Charities USA Announces Finalists for 2012 National Volunteer of the Year
Annual award recognizes Catholic Charities volunteers from across the country for exemplary service; coincides with National Volunteer Week.
Alexandria, Va. Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA), one of the nations leading human services organizations, today announced the five finalists for its 2012 National Volunteer of the Year Award. Volunteering at their local Catholic Charities agencies, these dedicated individuals have empowered vulnerable populations to achieve employment, assisted refugees in adjusting to their new lives in the United States, provided meals for the hungry, and advocated on behalf of the poor and oppressed. Their tireless energy and efforts to assist the least among us represents the very best of the human spirit. "These incredible individuals are living testament to the power of Gods love in all of us, said Rev. Larry Snyder, president of Catholic Charities USA. "They unselfishly put the needs of others ahead of their own, dedicating their lives to serving individuals, families and communities in need. Each year, nearly 300,000 volunteers in the Catholic Charities network serve more than 10 million people across the country. The 2012 award winner will be announced next week, Thursday, April 19, as part of National Volunteer Week, and will be honored at Catholic Charities USA's Annual Gathering in September in St. Louis, MO. About Catholic Charities USA Catholic Charities USA is the national office for Catholic Charities agencies nationwide. Catholic Charities USAs members provide help and create hope for more than 10 million people a year regardless of religious, social, or economic backgrounds. For almost 300 years, Catholic Charities agencies have worked to reduce poverty by providing a myriad of vital services in their communities, ranging from health care and job training to food and housing. ###