More than 40 years ago, Catholic Charities began honoring the individuals and organizations who embody characteristics of charity, compassion and empowerment toward those in poverty. Their dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of countless people.

Catholic Charities has a long and proud history of serving those in need, and this annual recognition program is a wonderful way to celebrate the heroes who are making a positive impact in our community. Please join us in celebrating this year’s recipients.

Father Christopher D. Donley, a Pittsburgh native, is the pastor of Divine Mercy Parish. He graduated from Duquesne University, where he studied History and Theology. Fr. Chris holds a Sacred License in Dogmatic Theology from a university in Rome. He was ordained to the priesthood in 2011. Besides leading Divine Mercy Parish, he founded Move a Mountain Missions, which operates Brother Andres Café and the Gift of Mary Women’s Shelter—a program addressing domestic abuse. Fr. Chris also serves as a chaplain at Central Catholic High School, Point Park University, and Catholic Charities.

Duquesne Light Company (DLC), serving the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, has been a reliable electric provider for over a century. Their core values—safety, integrity, dependability, equity, and community—drive their commitment to more than 600,000 customers across two counties, including Pittsburgh. In 2023, DLC donated nearly $2 million to 464 organizations and their employees volunteered over 4,300 hours. They prioritize customer support through energy efficiency programs, making electric bills more manageable.

Chris McMahon, President of Aquinas Wealth Advisors, a national Catholic values investment firm, is an outstanding CEO recognized by the Pittsburgh Business Times. He’s also an expert in national media. Chris serves as Vice Chair of the Legatus International Board of Directors and the Duquesne University Board of Trustees. Alongside his wife Molly, they lead the Gift of Mary board. In 2017, they founded Mary’s Place, a haven for expectant mothers, providing a safe space for living, worship, and life skills development.

Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish’s Outreach Ministry provides inspiration, comfort, and resolution to both parishioners and non-parishioners. Led by Denise Boring, the staff Coordinator of Outreach Ministry, along with Jim Carlucci (President of the Saint Vincent de Paul Society) and Tom Donohue (Director of the Saint Joseph’s Workers Ministry), this dedicated team offers physical, emotional, and spiritual care to those in need within the parish. They advocate for vulnerable individuals, including immigrants, the elderly, and the homeless. Their services include homebound communion, assistance for residents in care facilities, utility support for those with limited resources, and bereavement support. Additionally, they ensure that those requiring handyman assistance receive it.

Neil Walker, a Pittsburgh native, played 12 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB). He represented the Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, Milwaukee Brewers, New York Yankees, Miami Marlins, and Philadelphia Phillies. Walker, a Silver Slugger Award winner in 2014, retired in 2021. He now contributes as a radio and television presenter for the Pirates. His dedication to sports, mentorship, and faith shines through his involvement with organizations like Inspired Hearts and Hands, Lending Hearts, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Urban Impact, and Christian Sports International.