Compassion in Motion: Highlights from May 2026
6th Annual Battle Borne Walk for Wellness 5K and Community Event
The 6th Annual Battle Borne Walk For Wellness 5K and Community Event brought together families, organizations, and community members for a meaningful morning of support, wellness, and unity at The Wooden Match in Bethlehem. The event welcomed participants of all ages who gathered to promote health awareness while enjoying a positive and energetic atmosphere dedicated to community wellness.
Catholic Charities proudly participated in the event sharing information about the many services and programs available to individuals and families in need. The Catholic Charities Veterans Support team connected with attendees, answered questions, and provided guidance on resources that can help bring hope, stability, and assistance to the community.
Events like the Battle Borne Walk For Wellness highlight the power of collaboration and the importance of continuing to support the well-being of local families.
Engaging in Innovative Discussions with Charitable Food Organizations
Catholic Charities participated in Harvesting Insights: Using Data and AI to Map Local Food Needs, a collaborative roundtable created for Schuylkill County charitable food organizations. Held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Penn State Schuylkill, the event brought together community leaders and service providers to explore innovative ways technology and shared information can better identify food insecurity trends and local needs throughout the region.
The discussion focused on practical, safe, and collaborative uses of data and artificial intelligence to strengthen decision-making and improve services for families facing hunger. Participants shared ideas on how organizations can work together more effectively, respond faster to community needs, and continue building stronger support systems that bring hope and nourishment to individuals and families across Schuylkill County.
Welcome New Team Members:
Christal Cruz, Case Management Navigator for Lehigh and Northampton Counties
Catholic Charities is proud to welcome Christal Cruz as our new Case Management Navigator for Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Christal joins our team with a passion for helping individuals and families connect with the resources and support they need to improve their quality of life. In her new role, she will assist community members by guiding them through available services, offering support, and helping them navigate challenging situations with compassion and care.
As a Case Management Navigator, Christal will work closely with individuals and families facing hardships, ensuring they receive access to programs and services that promote stability, hope, and well-being. Her dedication to serving others reflects the mission of Catholic Charities to provide help and hope to those most in need throughout our communities.
Christopher Marcolla, Community Support Services Manager for Schuylkill and Carbon Counties
We also proudly welcome Christopher Marcolla as the new Community Support Services Manager serving Schuylkill and Carbon Counties. In this role, Christopher will help strengthen community outreach efforts while supporting individuals and families in need throughout the region. Christopher brings a passion for service and a commitment to building strong community connections. His leadership will help continue the mission of providing compassionate support, guidance, and access to essential resources for neighbors facing challenges.
We are excited to have Christal and Christopher join the team and look forward to the positive impact they will make. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome as they begins this important journey of service and support.