CHARLOTTE — Catholic Charities Diocese of Charlotte held its 19th annual Vineyard of Hope gala in person April 21 at Sonesta Charlotte. More than $118,000 was raised for Catholic Charities’ efforts to strengthen families, build communities and reduce poverty in the Charlotte region.
The annual gathering is an opportunity to raise funds for critical services needed in the community, to celebrate the life-changing work that has been accomplished over the past year, and to honor someone in the community who has made a difference.
This year’s Fruit of the Vine Award recipient was Coleman Russell, a volunteer with Catholic Charities for nearly three years.
The Homemakers of Mercy were recognized as Volunteers of the Year. This group of more than 80 people in the Charlotte area helps collect home furnishings, sets up apartments and living spaces for Catholic Charities’ participants and makes each participant feel at home in their new surroundings.
To learn more about Catholic Charities and how to donate or get involved, go online to www.ccdoc.org.
— SueAnn Howell, senior reporter