Hope
on the
Horizon
Annual Report 2025-2026
A Pivotal Moment
Title
Victoria Bechtold Kush
President, Board of Directors
Catholic Charities of Pittsburgh has been a priority for my family and me for nearly a decade. As a supporter and board member for the last several years, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary breadth of services Catholic Charities provides and the profound impact those services have on individuals and families throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania.
Over the past several years, Catholic Charities has made remarkable progress in expanding its reach and strengthening its programs. Each step forward has been guided by a steadfast commitment to our mission and a belief that every person deserves dignity, compassion, and hope.
As I complete my first year as President of the Board of Directors, I am honored to help lead Catholic Charities into its next chapter. Together, we will continue building on this strong foundation, advancing innovative solutions, deepening community partnerships, and ensuring that those facing life’s greatest challenges can find the support they need.
In the pages that follow, you will see the impact of this work in action. You will discover the lasting impact of new programs and enhancements made possible through the Campaign for Compassion Corner, learn how our Indoor Dining Facility is creating pathways to stability for its daily patrons, and see how strategic partnerships are helping us deliver more effective services throughout our region. And most importantly, you will learn how your support – as a donor, volunteer, or partner – is making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for your trust, your compassion, and your dedication to our mission. Together, we are ensuring that Catholic Charities remains a beacon of hope for all who seek our services.
Hope On The Horizon
Calm In the Current,
Hope On the Horizon
Susan Rauscher
Chief Executive Officer
Behind every year of service at Catholic Charities is a commitment to compassionate care. In recent years, we have delivered our services through a consistent formula: 100 employees, serving about 30,000 clients, through over 300,000 acts of service. As we look back on the previous year of service, we are proud to demonstrate that same level of impact.
Pennsylvania State Budget impasse, Federal Government funding cuts impacting the entire nonprofit sector, changes to tax law that put funding sources at risk, and economic pressures that made food, gas, utilities, and other everyday necessities increasingly difficult to afford for those we serve.
Yet even in turbulent waters, your support helped provide calm in the current.
Because of you, Catholic Charities has been a steady source of calm for individuals and families facing uncertainty this past year. Your generosity provided compassionate care and a path to stability when it was needed most. Thank you.
As we look ahead, your continued support will be vital. We have set a goal of raising $6.8 million to sustain and expand this work. With $.84 of every dollar directly funding programs, your investment turns moments of uncertainty into moments of hope.
Thank you for providing calm and creating hope.
Program Highlight
Internal Agency Referrals
message
It’s about restoring safety and empowering people to rebuild their lives—one critical step at a time.
County Highlight
Washington or Butler
Story
A meal can ease hunger, but it can also open the door to safety, dignity, and hope.
How a Meal Leads to a Home
She walked into our new indoor dining space just after breakfast began. While many guests ask about coffee or a meal, her first words were different: She asked for help finding safety – for her and her toddler.
Fleeing domestic violence, she had found temporary refuge in a women’s shelter, but the situation there had grown tense. Unsure if she would be allowed to stay, she faced the very real possibility of being turned out once again with her baby in her arms and nowhere to go.
In that moment of uncertainty, our team sat down with her, listened, and connected her to Crisis Case Management. Together, they began the difficult but hopeful work of charting a path forward. We helped her apply for childcare assistance, look for employment, and explore housing options. Progress hasn’t come overnight, but her determination has never wavered. With the support of our team, she has found a full-time job and has now moved into a home of her own.
Her story reminds us why we built this space. A meal can ease hunger, but it can also open the door to safety, dignity, and hope. In moments like this, our dining hall becomes a bridge where someone who arrives with nothing more than a question can find support, compassion, and the chance to begin again.
Inspired by Jesus’ teachings and focused on lasting solutions, we serve our communities’ critical needs with compassion, healing, and hope.
A path to Stability
Programs & Services
We welcome any person in distress, regardless of background, by evaluating demonstrated need and prioritizing immediate risk of harm. We frame every need as an invitation to work together toward long-term solutions and self-sufficiency.
Our Reach Across the Diocese
Allegheny County
Programs & Services
Basic Needs Assistance
Medical and Dental Care
Mental Health and Counseling
Gismondi Job Training
Housing and Shelter Assistance
Pregnancy and Family Program
Senior Services
Beaver County
Programs & Services
Basic Needs Assistance
Mental Health and Counseling
- Pregnancy and Family Program
Butler County
Programs & Services
Basic Needs Assistance
Mental Health and Counseling
Gismondi Job Training
Housing and Shelter Assistance
- Pregnancy and Family Program
Greene County
Programs & Services
Basic Needs Assistance
Mental Health and Counseling
- Pregnancy and Family Program
Lawrence County
Programs & Services
Basic Needs Assistance
Mental Health and Counseling
Pregnancy and Family Program
Senior Services
Washington County
Programs & Services
Basic Needs Assistance
Mental Health and Counseling
Gismondi Job Training
Pregnancy and Family Program
Outcomes reveal the deeper story.
Measuring what Matters
Tracking Transformation
Catholic Charities ensures transparency and accountability by measuring impact from every angle: tracking outputs, outcomes, and overall reach. These comprehensive measures show supporters the services delivered and the life transformation they spark.
Lives Impacted
Including:
Who We Serve
Female
39% Male
Below 100%
Federal Poverty Guideline
Between 101-250%
Federal Poverty Guideline
ALICE
Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed
Veterans
Well-being and Care Support
Non-Catholic
Victim/Survivor
of Domestic Abuse
Acts of Service
A 7% Increase
Including:
Additional Outputs
Successful Outcomes
We hold ourselves to high standards of service, aiming for a benchmark of at least 75% successful outcomes. This goal ensures that a majority of our clients achieve their desired results through our programs. More than a number, it’s a reflection of our effectiveness, our commitment to meaningful impact, and our dedication to continually improving the support we provide.
Family & Couples Counseling
Decreased Symptoms Related to Diagnosis
Individual Counseling
Improved Coping Skills within Relationships
Pregnancy & Parenting Support
Achieved Long-Term Stability
Senior Support
Well-being and Care Support
Housing & Shelter Support
Achieved Long-Term Stability
Job Training
Program Graduation Rate
Behind every successful outcome is the dedicated leadership and vision required to turn compassion into action.
Leadership & Governance
Our success is built on the dedication of the individuals listed here, whose leadership, governance, and spiritual guidance drive every aspect of our mission.
January 1, 2026
Senior Leadership
Susan Rauscher, Chief Executive Officer
Amber Crowe, Chief Program Officer
Vince Kane, Chief People Officer
Jill Krauza, Chief Operating Officer
Samantha Rivalsky, Chief Health Services Officer, Free Health Care Center
Noelle Taucher, Chief Finance & Data Officer
Angie Zambito Hill, Chief Development and Marketing Officer
Chaplain
Rev. Nicholas J. Argentieri, Chaplain to Catholic Charities
July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025
Board of Directors
John M. Hagan, President
Christopher Scoletti, Immediate Past President
Victoria Bechtold Kush, Vice President
Paul G. Malone, Secretary
Madelyn A. Reilly, Nominating and Governance Committee Chair
Lauren E. Weddell, Treasurer & Finance Committee Chair
Anna B. Torrance, Diocesan Liaison (ex officio as the Diocesan Liaison)
Dorothy M. Alke
Jonathan D. Buck
Susan Cruz, Development Committee Chair
Colleen Darragh
John DeCaro (ex officio representing Challenges: Options in Aging)
Andrew Dierkes
Samuel J. Dippold, Program Committee Chair
Gary Doyle
Shanicka L. Kennedy
James E. Kinville
Judge Maureen Lally-Green
Eric W. Lani
Kelly Locher (ex officio representing Emerging Leaders Council)
Jennifer M. Mondi
Alexander Reyes
Joseph Rockey (ex officio representing St. Joseph House of Hospitality)
Dr. Mark Stanish (ex officio representing Free Health Care Center)
Eris Symms
Michael C. Turzai
July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025
Honorary Board of Directors
Rachel Lorey Allen
Steve Blanco, Sr.
Michael J. Clark
Judge Joy Flowers Conti
Daniel Darragh
Ruth Darragh
Edward R. Friel
John D. Goetz
John Hartzell
Katie Larsen
Scott Lammie
Barbara McCurrie
Brian McCurrie
Mary Lou McLaughlin
Cynthia Meegan
Paolo Montemaggi, M.D.
Dan Onorato
Paul Michael “Mickey” Pohl
Joni Mangino Selep
Arthur Scully
Mark D. Shepard
Neal Shipley
July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025
Member Board
Most Reverend David A. Zubik, Chair
Most Reverend Mark A. Eckman, Bishop of the Diocese of Pittsburgh
Vicar General Reverend Monsignor Lawrence DiNardo
Anna B. Torrance, Esq., Catholic Charities’ Diocesan Liaison
Reverend Nicholas J. Argentieri
Reverend Benjamin E. Barr
Reverend Kevin C. Fazio
Reverend J. Francis Frazer, MDiv
Reverend Michael J. Stumpf
Reverend Paul J. Zywan, MDiv
In Appreciation of
Bishop
David A. Zubik
We extend our deepest gratitude to Bishop Zubik for 17 years of faithful leadership, enduring guidance, and unwavering support of our mission.
Honoring Faithful Leadership
Catholic Charities extends heartfelt gratitude to Bishop David Zubik, who retired at the conclusion of this fiscal year after 17 years of faithful leadership as shepherd of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Throughout his tenure, Bishop Zubik was a visionary supporter of Catholic Charities, guiding and encouraging our mission to serve the most vulnerable with compassion and dignity. His steadfast belief in the power of the Church’s charitable outreach helped us expand programs, embrace innovation, and strengthen our commitment to meeting people where they are.
While his retirement marks the close of one chapter, we are deeply encouraged that Bishop Zubik will continue to walk alongside us in his new role as a Catholic Charities volunteer. His presence, wisdom, and servant leadership will remain a source of inspiration.
At the same time, we warmly welcome Bishop Mark Eckman and look forward to serving together in the years ahead.
Our Commitment to Transparency
Financial Stewardship
We are dedicated to responsible financial management, ensuring every dollar supports our mission to serve those in need with compassion and integrity.
Annually, we depend on the vital support of individuals, foundations, and corporations to sustain our operations. These contributions are essential for maintaining the high standards of needed care we provide to our community.
We are deeply grateful for your continued trust in our stewardship and for the powerful endorsement of our mission. Your generosity ensures we can continue making a difference.
| Catholic Charities | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
SUPPORT, REVENUE AND OTHER GAINS |
||
|
Government Contracts and Programs |
$5,531,110 |
$5,739,497 |
|
Donations and Bequests |
$8,966,597 |
$11,194,932 |
|
In-Kind Contributions |
$767,324 |
$720,177 |
|
Special Events |
$133,847 |
$126,565 |
|
Diocese of Pittsburgh |
$753,071 |
$715,606 |
|
United Way |
$359,277 |
$268,012 |
|
Program Service Fees |
$279,486 |
$365,183 |
|
Investment Income |
$643,136 |
$903,058 |
|
Miscellaneous Income |
$15,143 |
$48,797 |
|
Total Support, Revenue, and Other Gains |
$17,448,991 |
$20,081,827 |
EXPENSES |
||
|
Program |
$11,512,160 |
$11,171,898 |
|
Administration |
$1,334,121 |
$1,266,839 |
|
Fundraising |
$1,321,310 |
$1,260,882 |
|
Total Expenses |
$14,167,591 |
$13,699,619 |
NET ASSETS |
||
|
Increase in Net Assets |
$3,281,400 |
$6,382,208 |
|
Net Assets, Beginning of Year |
$26,406,792 |
$20,024,584 |
|
Net Assets, End of Year |
$29,688,192 |
$26,406,792 |
| Free Health Care Center | 2025 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|
SUPPORT, REVENUE AND OTHER GAINS |
||
|
Donations and Bequests |
$1,465,709 |
$1,075,761 |
|
In-Kind Contributions |
$248,266 |
$261,027 |
|
Diocese of Pittsburgh |
$60,468 |
$52,756 |
|
United Way |
$7,325 |
$3,510 |
|
Interest Income |
$97,799 |
$171,883 |
|
Total Support, Revenue, and Other Gains |
$1,879,567 |
$1,564,937 |
EXPENSES |
||
|
Program |
$1,559,331 |
$1,332,211 |
|
Administration |
$150,999 |
$186,244 |
|
Fundraising |
$46,596 |
$46,482 |
|
Total Expenses |
$1,756,926 |
$1,564,937 |
NET ASSETS |
||
|
Increase in Net Assets |
$122,641 |
– |
|
Net Assets, Beginning of Year |
$2,488,644 |
$2,488,644 |
|
Net Assets, End of Year |
$2,611,285 |
$2,488,644 |
A Culture Built on Compassion
The Heartbeat of Service
Our staff embodies the shared commitment that makes Catholic Charities a true place of belonging. This culture of respect and collaboration has earned us the recognition as one of the Best Places to Work for the fourth consecutive year.
Our Staff Culture
At Catholic Charities, service isn’t confined to a department, a title, or a job description—it’s the heartbeat that unites every member of our team. Whether serving a meal, managing administrative strategies, counseling a client, or implementing a program, our staff share one purpose: to meet each person who walks through our doors with dignity, compassion, and hope. That shared commitment is what makes Catholic Charities not only a place of service but a place of belonging.
It’s why, for the fourth consecutive year, we’ve been honored as one of the Best Places to Work by the Pittsburgh Business Times. This recognition reflects more than employee satisfaction. It celebrates a culture built on respect, collaboration, and the belief that everyone has a role in building stability. In moments of challenge and change, our team continues to show up with creativity, empathy, and a steadfast belief in the mission we share.
Together, we build trust. We lift one another up. We find joy in serving others. And every day, in countless ways both seen and unseen, our staff embody the heart of Catholic Charities: transforming lives through the simple, powerful act of caring.
Partner Recognition
We are proud to recognize MSA as our most generous annual corporate partner for their extraordinary, sustained commitment to our mission.
Invest in Continued Transformation
Fund the long-term stability and life-changing outcomes seen in this report.
In Recognition of Generosity
Catholic Charities extends special gratitude to Highmark for their generous support of our 2025 Hope from Home campaign. As the lead corporate donor for this initiative, Highmark’s commitment was instrumental in providing vital services to individuals and families facing housing instability.
