Pathways to Possibilities - Day 5 - Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville

Pathways to Possibilities – Day 5

Welcome back for the final day of Pathways to Possibilities presented by First Horizon. If you missed any of the previous days, please visit the Pathways page.

From Catholic Charities Executive Director Judy K. Orr:

I am grateful to Demetrius, Deanna, and Linda who gave their time and set aside their privacy for the noble purpose of helping others. Each tells a story about how Catholic Charities brought love, hope, and healing into their lives when they needed it most. And yesterday Bishop Spalding shared his inspiring journey and his imperative to serve others.

Please take a few minutes to watch and listen to these compelling stories and see why Catholic Charities is so driven to live our mission: Following Christ’s example, we recognize the dignity of all people and serve our neighbors.

When I first took this job two years ago, Bishop Spalding challenged me to expand our service to all 38 Middle Tennessee counties that comprise the Diocese of Nashville. This spring Catholic Charities is taking the first steps in the biggest expansion in our history, so that we can serve thousands more like Demetrius, Deanna, and Linda. But we need your help.

Tennessee Serves Neighbors and the creation of new family resources centers in 10 counties over the next two years is phase one in realizing Bishop Spalding’s vision.

We chose the name Tennessee Serves Neighbors because it will take everyone – not just the Catholic Charities team – to make a lasting, positive change in these communities. Carol Yochem from First Horizon mentioned on Monday’s video that Tennessee Serves Neighbors is one of the reasons her organization decided to become the presenting sponsor of Pathways to Possibilities. I want to thank First Horizon and Carol for recognizing and supporting this effort.

The need for vital services in outlying communities is urgent. Just ask the pastors, the non-profits, or anyone who lives there or grew up there. The smallest of setbacks for residents can spiral into a series of worsening events with devastating, multi-generational consequences. And there but by the grace of God go I.

Each family resource center will be a place where families know they will find love, caring, and support – a faithful friend. The local team in that community will be there every step of the way to open doors, provide access to important resources, and stop any downward cycle before it escalates.

Service to others is both a calling and an honor for me and everyone at Catholic Charities. After all, if we are not here to help a fellow traveler along the journey, what are we here for?

Catholic Charities is asking for your help in the counties. Tennesseans are known for their volunteerism, and we know that tapping neighbors to help neighbors is powerful. There will be challenges for certain. But working together, I believe that “Love, Hope, and Healing” will bring transformational change. In this season of resurrection and rebirth, it is our calling to make that a promise for all.

Did you know that only 5 percent of Catholic Charities’ revenue comes from the Diocese of Nashville? We depend on the generosity of people like you. Every gift, no matter the size, will make a difference.

Judy K. Orr
Executive Director

P.S. I want to thank my amazing team for their hard work and dedication. They rose to meet this year’s challenges. I am indebted to our development and communications team, including Amy Atkinson Communications and Kent Creative, who were instrumental in putting our Pathways to Possibilities program together for you.

Our Amazing Sponsors

Thank you to First Horizon for being our Presenting Sponsor this year as well as each and every sponsor for their wonderful contributions to Pathways to Possibilities.

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