Catholic Charities Honors the People Behind its Mission
Story by Scott Griffin
Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Hartford recognized the extraordinary dedication of its workforce on Aug. 7 at its annual Staff Appreciation event. As a ministry of the Archdiocese, the agency honored the employees and programs that carry out this vital work on its behalf, bringing tangible help and hope to local families.
“Our employees are the true heart of our ministry,” Catholic Charities CEO Marek Kukulka said. “Their compassion, resilience, and tireless dedication bring light into the lives of the individuals and families we serve across the Archdiocese. We are deeply grateful for everything they do to carry our mission forward.”
The ceremony’s highest honor, Staff Member of the Year, was awarded to Marcus Wilson of Parent Support Services. Wilson was recognized for bringing infectious energy to his role and consistently exceeding expectations to support his peers. Drawing on his own lived experience, Wilson tirelessly advocates for those facing adversity and helps them become stronger families.
The Excellence in Equity Award was presented to Cynthia Browdy of the South End Wellness Senior Center in Hartford. Described as reliable and versatile, Browdy frequently manages daily operations and assists individuals with essential relief applications, ensuring everyone is treated with the utmost dignity.
Keara Hawk of Parent Support Services received the Rising Star Award. Honoring an employee with less than two years of tenure, the award celebrated Hawk’s vibrant energy, innovative ideas, and immediate positive impact on the agency’s mission.
“They brought a blueprint on how to live their life with faith in God and belief of the family,” Sferrazza says of the immigrants. “And they embraced hard work to become good citizens of this country.”
The agency named Community Schools as its Program of the Year. The team was praised for cultivating a safe, supportive environment that transforms the lives of young learners, their families, and the wider educational community in Hartford.
Three employees earned Leadership Awards for motivating peers and serving as vital resources:
Ashley Castillo (Waterbury Behavioral Health Clinic), for her self-directed professionalism and exceptional care.
Ana Olivo (Waterbury Child Development Center), for her approachable nature and ability to empower those around her.
Danielle Ruszczyk (St. Stanislaus Child Development Center in Meriden), for seamlessly managing diverse duties and immersing herself in multiple aspects of the agency’s work.
The Mission Award, honoring staff who embody the goal to make families stronger, went to:
Esmeralda Torres (Community Schools), for her remarkable work ethic and deeply welcoming spirit.
Marlyne Burton (Parent Support Services), for her deep empathy and steady encouragement of clients and colleagues.
Vivian Bergeron (TANF), for stepping up at any hour to support struggling families.
The annual celebration offers a valuable moment to reflect on the agency’s shared work, honoring the individuals who bring the Archdiocese’s mission to life on the front lines of community service.