THE VOICE OF CHARITY is a weekly broadcast that explores the work of Catholic Charities in Cook and Lake counties. The program is produced in partnership with the Multi-Media Content Department at the Archdiocese of Chicago. The Voice of Charity airs Tuesday mornings at 8:30am on WNDZ, 750AM radio in Chicago and there is a simultaneous livestream on YouTube and Facebook at “catholicchicago,” the account for the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Video recordings of past shows can be found here.
LIVE radio broadcasts, and audio recordings of past shows can be found here.
Podcasts are featured below, containing highlights from each Voice of Charity show. We invite you to listen and watch the Voice of Charity and share your comments by emailing us at [email protected].
Lenten Projects Make a Difference [Podcast Length 14:06]
April 23, 2024
Catholic Charities’ regional offices were quite busy during Lent, as generous friends and benefactors partnered with us to respond to the needs of guests in neighborhoods across Cook and Lake Counties. In the South/Southwest Cook Region, six events were held in seven weeks, in conjunction with several parishes and ministries within the Archdiocese of Chicago. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Monsignor Dennis Lyle, Mary Ellen Brabec, Mark McCombs, and Christopher Torres to recap this series of wonderful service projects that provided basic needs, and critical support to hundreds of Chicagoans.
Family Self-Sufficiency Success Stories – 2 of 2 [Podcast Length 13:09]
April 16, 2024
The Annual Achievement Celebration for Catholic Charities’ Family Self-Sufficiency Program is coming up on April 27. Participants have much to be proud of as they reach important milestones in their goals for themselves and their families. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Xochitl Villarreal and Ashley, a recent graduate of the program to preview this special event, and describe how Catholic Charities accompanies single parents, and their children, as they strive for a brighter future.
Catholic Charities Updates with Sally Blount [Podcast Length 13:57]
April 9, 2024
Catholic Charities recently announced a new Strategic Plan called Vision 2030 to enhance its core programs and deepen its impact in Cook and Lake Counties. Sally Blount, Catholic Charities President and CEO has worked with her Board of Directors over the past four years to create this pathway forward that sharpens the agency’s focus while maintaining its founding mission. Join Sally Blount and Katie Bredemann for a discussion about Vision 2030 on this special edition of The Voice of Charity.
Family Self-Sufficiency Success Stories – 1 of 2 [Podcast Length 13:36]
April 2, 2024
Catholic Charities’ Family Self-Sufficiency Program assists single parents with case management and employment services, for up to five years, as they work towards greater stability for themselves and their children. The stories that emerge from the Family Self-Sufficiency Program are incredibly inspiring. Join Katie Bredemann ash she welcomes Patti Fuller, Donna Drinka, and Xochitl Villarreal to describe how this long-running program helps participants remove barriers to success so they can achieve their dreams.
Triduum Traditions [Podcast Length 13:16]
March 26, 2024
There are a number of beautiful traditions associated with the Sacred Triduum, the most solemn three days in the Church calendar, beginning on Holy Thursday and concluding on Holy Saturday. These traditions offer faithful Christians around the world the opportunity to draw closer to Christ as we commemorate His Passion, Death, and Resurrection. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Fr. Wayne Watts, Fr. Ryan Brady, and Fr. Robert Ryan to discuss the significance that these Triduum Traditions have in our Catholic faith, and how many of them relate to the work of Catholic Charities.
New WIC Food Center Initiatives [Podcast Length 12:40]
March 19, 2024
Last week on the Voice of Charity, we discussed the vital role that Catholic Charities’ 14 Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Food Centers continue to fill in Chicago’s economically challenged neighborhoods. Join Katie Bredemann this week for Part Two of this discussion, as Shivonnia Dickson and Eric Young describe new initiatives in 2024 that will expand the ways that WIC families can participate in all that the WIC Food Centers have to offer.
WIC Food Centers Update [Podcast Length 12:34]
March 12, 2024
Catholic Charities’ 14 Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Food Centers continue to provide a critical role in Chicago, combining food security with public health services to assist vulnerable young families in economically challenged neighborhoods. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Veola Hankle and Velma Walker to discuss how the WIC Food Centers fulfill basic needs, and much more to families striving for greater stability and future life success.
The Universal Impact of Lourdes [Podcast Length 12:40]
March 5, 2024
Lourdes, France is one of the holiest sites in the world, welcoming people of all faith traditions who want to see where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette 18 times in 1858. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Fr. Wayne Watts, Noreen Russo, Pam Davis, and Jacque Anderson to discuss their experiences together in Lourdes last summer, and the plans for the 2024 trip, as Fr. Wayne continues a 30-year tradition of leading Chicago pilgrims to serve in, and experience Lourdes.
2024 Art of Caring [Podcast Length 11:07]
February 27, 2024
One of Catholic Charities’ Signature Events is coming up on Saturday, April 20: The Art of Caring. It is hosted by Catholic Charities Women’s Board, Lake County Services, a group of dynamic ladies who have been committed to the work of Catholic Charities for more than three decades. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Carolyn Milligan, Patty Charhut, Gina Zisook, and Sondra Adam to preview this special event and discuss the Welcome Home Project, a Women’s Board program that directly helps vulnerable people as they strive for greater self-sufficiency.
Discoveries about America’s Mental Health System [Podcast Length 12:42]
February 20, 2024
Award-winning author and Chicago native Meg Kissinger is going to be the Keynote Speaker at the 2024 LOSS Blossoms of Hope Brunch on April 28. On this special edition of The Voice of Charity, Meg joins Katie Bredemann to discuss that upcoming event, plus her recent book, “While You Were Out: An Intimate Family Portrait of Mental Illness in an Era of Silence,” and her ground-breaking work travelling the United States reporting on America’s mental health system for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Diaper Depot Acts of Kindness [Podcast Length 13:45]
February 13, 2024
Catholic Charities’ Diaper Depot continues to expand in Cook and Lake counties, through a variety of initiatives that affirm young families in need. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Lisa Roti, Tom Powers, Don Rosanova, and Sarah Holmes to discuss recent events they have been a part of, in support of the Diaper Depot, and describe the network of community partners working with Catholic Charities to increase awareness of this problem among vulnerable families, in Illinois and across the nation.
The Evolution of Behavioral Health Services [Podcast Length 11:31]
February 6, 2024
Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Services have expanded over the years to offer individuals, couples, and families counseling programs that address a wide variety of mental health concerns. Last year, Catholic Charities assisted 2,400 adults and children as they journeyed toward healing and wellness. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes two longtime Catholic Charities leaders, Pam Davis and Hector Rivera, both Directors in Behavioral Health Services to discuss how Catholic Charities counseling programs continue to meet clients where they are and accompany them toward a brighter future.
New Hope Apartments [Podcast Length 12:02]
January 30, 2024
Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Services have expanded over the years to offer individuals, couples, and families counseling programs that address a wide variety of mental health concerns. Last year, Catholic Charities assisted 2,400 adults and children as they journeyed toward healing and wellness. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes two longtime Catholic Charities leaders, Pam Davis and Hector Rivera, both Directors in Behavioral Health Services to discuss how Catholic Charities counseling programs continue to meet clients where they are and accompany them toward a brighter future.
2023 Year in Review [Podcast Length 11:27]
January 23, 2024
As Catholic Charities continues to fulfill its mission in 2024, we pause on this edition of The Voice of Charity to look back on key events, and program developments that shaped our work over the past twelve months. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Melissa Lucas, Director of Program Initiatives to discuss how Catholic Charities responded to significant challenges in 2023, always putting the needs of clients at the forefront of all we do in Cook and Lake counties.
LOSS Program Update [Podcast Length 13:59]
January 16, 2024
Catholic Charities LOSS program offers a safe, non-judgmental environment where survivors of suicide can find community, direction, and resources for healing, wherever they are in the grieving process. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Fr. Charles T. Rubey, Catholic Charities Associate Administrator and Founder of LOSS, Deborah Major, LOSS Program Director and Emily Tegenkamp, LOSS Program Coordinator to discuss recent program developments and resources for anyone who may be struggling this winter.
2024 Gibsons 16th Annual Catholic Charities Lunch [Podcast Length 11:17]
January 9, 2024
For the 16th consecutive year, the Gibsons Restaurant Group is generously providing a gourmet luncheon to hundreds of Catholic Charities clients this winter, in support of them and our organization. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Kevin Arnold, Director of Training and Development for the Gibson’s Restaurant Group to preview the 2024 event and discuss how this wonderful New Year’s tradition has evolved through the years.
2024 D’Vine Affair [Podcast Length 11:21]
January 2, 2024
As 2024 begins, Catholic Charities looks forward to the 23rd Annual D’Vine Affair on Sunday, February 4 at the Union League Club. This delightful afternoon gala offers guests the opportunity to sample wine and craft beers from around the world, while supporting Catholic Charities. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Joseph Glunz, Jr. and Rose Marie Lesniak Mendez to preview this year’s D’Vine Affair and discuss how the proceeds of this special event will provide critical assistance to Catholic Charities programs and services this winter.
Housing and Homelessness Prevention Update [Podcast Length 11:32]
December 26, 2023
Last year, Catholic Charities helped 4,500 individuals who were experiencing housing insecurity. Through our 22 Affordable Housing residences for seniors, and an extensive network of referrals, our caring, resourceful staff accompanied each person to find and maintain a stable living situation. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Associate Vice Presidents Angela Bailey and Millicent Ntiamoah to discuss how these programs have evolved in recent months, and how our work is having an impact on nationwide studies regarding poverty and homelessness.
Celebration of Giving Stories [Podcast Length 11:50]
December 19, 2023
For more than 75 years, Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago has led a Christmas gift program, spreading Christmas cheer to those who are struggling during the holiday season. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Dody Hickey, Mario Serrano, and Cookie Krupa to discuss how parishes, schools and corporations across Cook and Lake counties have come together again, in inspiring ways to continue the Celebration of Giving and help families in need this Christmas.
Senior Services [Podcast Length 10:15]
December 12, 2023
Senior Services is one of Catholic Charities largest Impact Areas, serving more than 80,000 older adults in Cook and Lake counties each year. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Meisha Lyons, Vice President – Seniors, and Umekia McIntosh, Senior Director – Care Coordination to describe the many ways Catholic Charities continues to help seniors embrace healthy aging and thrive in their homes, safely, comfortably, and with dignity.
St. James Parish Partnership [Podcast Length 11:45]
December 5, 2023
On the Voice of Charity, we are always grateful for the opportunity to thank our parish partners who generously join in the work of Catholic Charities throughout the year, as part of their service ministries. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Fr. Dennis Berry and Craig Leslie to discuss how St. James Parish in the South Loop has been working in recent weeks and months to help Catholic Charities assist asylum seekers, and other Chicagoans who are striving for greater stability in their lives.
Burial Assistance [Podcast Length 10:05]
November 28, 2023
Since early 2020, when the COVID-19 outbreak started, and devastated thousands of families in Chicago, Catholic Charities has received an increasing number of calls and emails asking for Burial Assistance. Especially during the height of the pandemic, loved ones were passing away at an alarming rate, leaving families unable to plan for funeral costs. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Tracey Blackburn, Senior Program Manager, Charities Hub to discuss how Catholic Charities has been expanding its Burial Assistance program to help Chicago families provide dignified burials that honor and celebrate the life of each deceased family member.
20th Annual Thanksgiving Lunch at Catholic Charities [Podcast Length 11:48]
November 21, 2023
The 20th Annual Catholic Charities Thanksgiving Lunch will be held Thursday, November 23 at 721 North LaSalle Street, from 11am-1pm. We are grateful for this opportunity to serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal to our supper guests, and remind them that we care about them, on the holidays and throughout the year. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Noreen Russo, Associate Director of Special Projects, and Abigail Behrend, a Lead Volunteer at the Catholic Charities Supper Program to provide a preview of this year’s Thanksgiving celebration.
Celebration of Giving in Lake County [Podcast Length 11:48]
November 14, 2023
Catholic Charities Christmas Gift Program in Lake County is bringing kind-hearted people together again to provide toys and basic needs to vulnerable children and families this holiday season. This special Christmas project is in full swing in Cook County, as well. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Jim Wogan and Sue Fowler, Co-Chairs of the Lake County program to discuss the wonderful stories that are emerging this year as generous donors and volunteers unite to spread Christmas cheer.
2023 Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball [Podcast Length 14:10]
November 7, 2023
Catholic Charities 34th Annual Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball is fast approaching on Friday, December 1st. This gala is one of the largest, and most glamorous events of the Christmas season in Chicago, raising critical funds for Catholic Charities programs in Cook and Lake counties. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Tom Ricketts, 2023 Ball Chair, who will offer a preview of this gala, and Aida Segura, Director of the House of Peace who will describe how Ball proceeds will help all Catholic Charities clients, including those who have experienced serious trauma, and are now striving for stability, and self-sufficiency in their lives.
COG in Cook County [Podcast Length 13:26]
October 31, 2023
For more than 75 years, Catholic Charities Celebration of Giving has supported children and families throughout Cook and Lake counties, providing holiday gifts and basic needs to those who are economically vulnerable. Last year, more than 15,000 individuals received presents from this heartwarming program. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Noreen Russo to share details about how Chicagoans get help spread Christmas joy throughout our region this year.
Irsay Family Donation to CCAC [Podcast Length 12:09]
October 24, 2023
Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, and his family recently gave a $5 million gift to Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. The gift is in memory of Sister Joyce Dura, O.S.F., Jim’s late cousin who was a Franciscan nun serving in the greater Chicago area for nearly 50 years. Join Katie Bredemann as she welcomes Steve Campbell, Vice President of Communications and External Affairs for the Indianapolis Colts to discuss Sister Joyce’s inspiring legacy, and the impact that this extraordinary gift will have on the work of Catholic Charities in the years to come.
Relevant Radio Donation to Diaper Depot [Podcast Length 12:49]
October 10, 2023
Recently, a Relevant Radio staff member and his wife made a generous donation to Catholic Charities’ Lake County Diaper Depot as they celebrated the arrival of their new baby. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Matthew, the Relevant radio employee, along with Don Rosanova, Lead Volunteer at the Lake County Diaper Depot, and Lisa Roti, Lake County Regional Director to discuss the impact that this recent donation has made on all involved with the Diaper Depot.
House of Good Sheperd/Nov. 5 Brunch Tie-in [Podcast Length 12:08]
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October 3, 2023
Catholic Charities’ House of the Good Shepherd is one of two transitional housing residences offering safety and a fresh start to women and children who are victims of domestic violence. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Deborah Hammond, Program Director, Family Violence Services, and Lizette Olvera, Site Director for the House of the Good Shepherd to discuss updates on the House of the Good Shepherd, plus October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the upcoming Glow of Hope brunch.
St. Sabina Parish Partnership [Podcast Length 13:08]
September 26, 2023
St. Sabina Parish is a key service site for Catholic Charities. In addition to operating a food pantry and nearby WIC center, St. Sabina parishioners generously work with Catholic Charities staff to ensure that programs and services are available to those who need them. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Fitzgerald Craan, Regional Operations Director at the St. Sabina Campus to discuss recent events that have uplifted the community and provided assistance to vulnerable residents.
Sandwich Squad [Podcast Length 13:08]
September 19, 2023
Catholic Charities is always thankful for the time and generosity that volunteers offer in support of our mission. When teenagers and their families create and implement an innovative, new program to assist our guests, we are especially impressed, and grateful. Join Katie Bredemann and Phil Zepeda as they welcome Perry Harig, Nick Bobay, Leo Baumann, Jen Bobay, Laura Trevino and Rose Marie Lesniak Mendez to discuss the impact that the Sandwich Squad has had at Catholic Charities over the past four years.
Counseling Programs [Podcast Length 10:59]
July 18, 2023
Catholic Charities Counseling Programs help clients deal with a wide variety of mental health concerns. Through counseling and case management, children and adults receive assistance from compassionate, experienced professionals to identify root causes and plan for a more positive path forward. Join Phil Zepeda and Katie Bredemann as they welcome Ellen Tannenbaum and Laura Caballero to discuss how our Counseling programs are having a positive impact in many people’s lives across Cook and Lake counties.
Welcome the Stranger [Podcast Length 11:59]
July 11, 2023
Welcome the Stranger is a Catholic Charities initiative, in conjunction with the Archdiocese of Chicago to assist the 12,000 asylum seekers who have arrived in our city in recent months. Parishes in all six Vicariates are coordinating a Catholic response to offer charitable help to the asylum seekers, along with Catholic Charities programs and services as available.Join Phil Zepeda and Katie Bredemann as they welcome Marilu Gonzalez and Donald Kauffold to discuss Welcome the Stranger developments, including a special story from Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Elk Grove Village.
The Encompassing Center [Podcast Length 10:08]
June 27, 2023
Catholic Charities Encompassing Center was established in 2019 to provide adults and children living on Chicago’s West Side with a healing space for community-based counseling. These residents have significant obstacles to accessing good healthcare, and The Encompassing Center has been a very effective way to address this disparity. Join Phil Zepeda and Katie Bredemann as they welcome Star Braddock, Outreach Engagement Coordinator to provide a summer update on this vital Behavioral Health program.
Catholic Charities Junior Board [Podcast Length 11:57]
December 13, 2022
Catholic Charities Junior Board continues to welcome new members – young professionals from Chicago and its suburbs who enjoy spending time together and finding innovative ways to support our mission. New Junior Board Co-Presidents Brady Dearlove and Mary Margaret Parker to discuss recent Junior Board activities and the plans that are underway to invite even more young adults to join us.
Profile of the Albertine Sisters [Podcast Length 10:47]
December 6, 2022
Among Catholic Charities 1,200 employees is a group of Sisters who represent the Congregation of Albertine Sisters Serving the Poor. The Albertine Sisters are incredibly dedicated to their work, and they inspire everyone at Catholic Charities with their joyful, selfless way of life, and their deep religious faith. In this show, we welcome Sr. Kate, Sr. Nikola and Sr. Benji to discuss the vital work the Sisters of Albertine do at Catholic Charities, and how their commitment to service reflects their desire to be united with God.
CPS-FIT and CCAC Work Together to Prevent Homelessness [Podcast Length 11:20]
November 29, 2022
In 2017, Catholic Charities was asked by the City of Chicago to help initiate a program called CPS-FIT that identifies and assists families with children in the Chicago Public School System who are living in “temporary housing situations.” On this episode, Katie Bredemann talks to SHARON LOVE, Department Director for Permanent, Supportive Housing, and HERMESE BRYANT, an accomplished Housing Case Manager to discuss how CPS-FIT, along with other Homelessness Prevention programs helps families establish safe homes and begin to achieve their dreams.
Family Self Sufficiency Program [Podcast Length 7:28]
Saturday, July 30, 2022
Catholic Charities Family Self-Sufficiency Program helps low-income, single parents with case management and employment services, for up to five years, as they work to improve their quality of life. In this episode, Maureen Murphy discusses the 2022 Achievement Celebration that recognized the accomplishments of hardworking program participants who are overcoming barriers and striving for a better future for themselves and their children.
WIC Centers Update [Podcast Length 8:58]
Tuesday, August 2, 2022
In conjunction with the Illinois Department of Human Services, Catholic Charities operates 16 Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) Centers that are wonderful hubs of community support, supplying nutritious food, nutrition education, and other information and referrals to low-income individuals and families, helping them gain access to Catholic Charities’ wide network of Community Development and Outreach Services. Join us as we welcome Shivonnia Dickson, WIC Department Director of Operations who will provide an update on all of the great things happening at our WIC Centers this summer.
Refugee Resettlement Stories [Podcast Length 10:27]
Tuesday, July 26, 2022
Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement Program continues to be especially busy this year, welcoming additional refugees from Afghanistan and Ukraine as hostilities continue to devastate these countries. Join us as we welcome Case Managers Emily Parker and Sophia Schmall to discuss the tragic situations in the lives of our refugees we serve, and how they are finding hope and healing as they rebuild their lives in Chicago.
CCLA Volunteer Attorney Update [Podcast Length 13:41]
Tuesday, July 19, 2022
For almost 20 years, Catholic Charities Legal Assistance Department (CCLA) has been helping low-income individuals and families who cannot afford an attorney. Staff members, and volunteer attorneys help people navigate the complex legal world, and learn more about their rights and responsibilities regarding a variety of civil law issues. Join us as we welcome Dennis Marks and Jack Lynch, two accomplished attorneys and dedicated CCLA volunteers to discuss how the program continues to evolve and help people we serve grow in their ability to advocate for themselves in legal matters.
Parish Partner Profile: St. Rita / St. Clare Parish [Podcast Length 8:53]
Tuesday, July 12, 2022
Catholic Charities is blessed to have many parish partners across the Archdiocese of Chicago. Selfless pastors and lay leaders work in tandem with Catholic Charities to identify needs in the community and determine the best ways for people to access programs and services that can ease their burdens and help them plan for a brighter future. Join us as we welcome Marilu Gonzalez, Regional Director for the City/Southwest Region and Fr. Homero Sanchez, Pastor of St. Rita of Cascia/St. Clare of Montefalco Parish to discuss the many ways that this wonderful parish is helping to fulfill the mission of Catholic Charities on the local, parish level.
After Supper Visions [Podcast Length 10:48]
June 7, 2022
After Supper Visions is one of the most creative programs ever established at Catholic Charities. Guests of our Tuesday Night Suppers are offered the opportunity to grow in their talents as photographers. Now in its 20th year, artists continue to produce beautiful photographic artwork that rivals that of any art gallery in Chicago. On this episode, we host Fr. Wayne Watts, Ellen Gorney and Jody O’Connor to discuss how this program affirms artists and welcomes them into a wonderful community of supportive people who respect them and believe in their potential.
Visit anchor.fm to see the full library of Voice of Charities radio shows.