Hope in the Good Life Podcast: Recent Episodes
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska
Listen to learn how Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska is bringing HOPE IN THE GOOD LIFE to our southern Nebraska neighbors!
In this episode, we explore how our community is helping ensure no one has to face hunger alone. Host John Soukup sits down with Mike Hosek, organizer of the annual Walk to End Hunger on August 8 in Lincoln, and Kristina Brandl, manager of the CSS Lincoln Food Market, to discuss how a simple walk has grown into a year-round effort to keep food on the shelves for hundreds of families in need. They explain how friendly competitions among Knights of Columbus councils and parishes are making a difference and discuss the ongoing need for food assistance in the community. You'll also learn how you can join the Walk to End Hunger or support the CSS Food Market throughout the year to bring hope to our neighbors in need.
A fresh coat of nail polish and manicure may seem like a small thing, but sometimes the simplest acts of kindness remind someone they are seen, valued, and loved. In this month's 180 with Katie, in about 180 seconds hear how Catholic Social Services impacted lives in June through practical assistance, compassionate outreach, and everyday moments of mercy that bring hope to our neighbors throughout southern Nebraska.
You're invited to spend three minutes with us for the latest edition of 180 with Katie. In this month's update, CSS Executive Director Katie Patrick and Development Officer John Soukup share how your generosity helped a refugee mother and her children avoid homelessness, supported families recovering from tornado damage in Auburn, and provided essential assistance to more than 1,100 people through Family Support Services. You'll also hear how our Sustainability programs are transforming donated goods into mission support and how community partners are helping us expand our impact across southern Nebraska. Thank you for making these stories of hope possible.
What followed was a Holy Spirit-inspired vision, an outpouring of community support, and the creation of a new CSS Hastings campus designed to serve those in need across central Nebraska for decades to come.In this episode, John Soukup sits down with Hastings Regional Director Jon Kiehl to discuss the journey from challenge to renewal, the impact the new facility is already having on individuals and families in need, the remarkable ecumenical support behind the project, and the upcoming Building Blessing and Family Festival on June 20.It's a story of faith, collaboration, and Hope in the Good Life.
highlights the many ways CSS staff and volunteers brought hope, dignity, and connection to the people we served throughout April. In 180 seconds, you’ll hear about a Good Samaritan who helped one of our refugee clients, and how sharing meals with clients inside the new Hastings building is so special. This episode captures meaningful moments that reflect Hope in the Good Life.
In this episode, we travel to Auburn, Nebraska, to sit down with Dr. John Crotty, a longtime board member of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. With more than 20 years of involvement, John shares why his commitment to CSS has remained strong—and how he has witnessed lives changed through acts of compassion, care, and faith. Through personal insight, this conversation highlights the real impact of generosity and invites listeners to be part of that mission, especially during the Nebraska Catholic Day of Giving. Make your donation now at csshope.org/NCDG and it will be matched dollar for dollar!
In this episode of Hope in the Good Life, we welcome new board member Leslie Wiesler, who has already stepped into leadership as Board Secretary at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Leslie shares what inspired her to get involved, the impact of her early experiences, and what has surprised her most about the depth and reach of CSS programs. Leslie offers a fresh perspective on how CSS serves all people with dignity and compassion.
This 180 second update gives you a clear, real look at how lives are changing across Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. From record growth last March in our thrift stores to powerful one-on-one encounters with individuals and families, you’ll hear how your support is making a difference right now by helping people find stability, dignity, and Hope in the Good Life.
As we celebrate National Volunteer Month this April, CSS is taking time to honor our volunteers – people who truly bring “Hope in the Good Life” to those we serve. In this special episode, you’ll hear how acts of service don’t just change lives, but uplift the soul, deepen faith, and reveal what it truly means to be the hands and feet of Christ.
In the latest 180 with Katie—a quick, three-minute update—CSS Executive Director Katie Patrick and Development Officer John Soukup share how your support is making a real difference in both immediate needs and lasting transformation. From a powerful story of faith and generosity at “Mercy Station” in Lincoln to record numbers of families served with basic necessities—and lives being changed through the prison and reentry apostolate—February was filled with impact made possible by you. You’ll also hear how growing donor support and expanding sustainability efforts are helping strengthen our mission of providing more Hope in the Good Life for the future.
On this episode of Hope in the Good Life, John Soukup talks with Kevin Murray about Trumpet Fest, an annual concert that combines musical excellence with a mission of service. Kevin shares how the event began in 2004 and highlights the high caliber of musicians involved—from talented young students to seasoned professionals—performing a surprising variety of music in the beautiful acoustics of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln. He also reflects on Trumpet Fest’s impact as a fundraiser for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, raising more than $50,000 since its inception, and what continues to inspire him to bring the event back each year, including this year’s concert on February 15.
The latest 180 with Katie highlights December at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska as a powerful month of “hope in action.” John Soukup and Executive Director Katie Patrick share how staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners came together across southern Nebraska to serve families, support those experiencing homelessness, and bring comfort during the holiday season. From food markets, thrift stores, and outreach efforts to record-breaking generosity and life-changing moments of personal care, the episode shows how small acts—meals shared, coats given, prayers offered—made a lasting impact on hundreds of lives throughout December.
In this episode of Hope in the Good Life, John Soukup revisits a story of welcome that still matters today. In the aftermath of the 2021 evacuation of Afghanistan, CSS Volunteer Jeff Kanger opened his home to an Afghan family seeking safety and security, hosting them until Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska helped secure a permanent home through its refugee resettlement efforts. As the new year begins, this conversation reminds us that welcoming the stranger isn’t a one-time response to crisis, but an ongoing commitment to mercy, dignity, and Hope in the Good Life.
Reentry Apostolate. From Thanksgiving baskets and holiday outreach to community events and behind-the-scenes ministry, this episode offers a snapshot of how Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska continues to bring Hope in the Good Life to thousands of neighbors each day.
In this episode, we take a look at meaningful and tax-wise ways to give as the year comes to a close. Host John Soukup sits down with planned giving expert Jim Gustafson, to explore simple year-end gifts, monthly giving, IRA charitable distributions, appreciated assets, grain donations, Donor Advised Funds, and more. If you’re considering a year-end gift to CSS or another nonprofit, this conversation offers clear, practical insight on how your generosity can make a real impact.
In this episode of 180 with Katie, John and Katie take listeners through just over 180 seconds of highlights from an extraordinary month across all Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska locations. From record-setting assistance in Hastings and remarkable volunteer engagement in Auburn to significant increases in homelessness outreach and family support in Lincoln, October showcased CSS’s mission in full motion.
On this episode of Hope in the Good Life Podcast, we’re coming to you from St. Gianna Women’s Home—a safe, faith-filled refuge in Lincoln where women and families find healing after domestic violence and under-supported pregnancies. Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska invites you and your family to Carole Fest 2025, a Christmas benefit concert on December 14th at 3 p.m. at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. This uplifting event highlights the St. Gianna Program through music, meditations, and inspiring stories—all to support the women who call St. Gianna’s home. Joining us today are three Marian Sisters who serve as Advocates at St. Gianna’s: Sister Carol Hohmeier, Sister Gabriel Perry, and Sister Melissa Moxley. Together, they’ll share what it means to walk with these women, the moments that inspire them, and how Carole Fest helps support this life-changing ministry.
In this episode of Hope in the Good Life, John Soukup visits with two Catholic Social Services team members serving in southwest Nebraska to share how they bring hope and compassion to families in rural communities. The conversation also highlights an upcoming Trivia Night fundraiser on November 14 in Imperial—an evening of fun that supports the serious work of helping neighbors in need. As the title reminds us, when it comes to faith, community, and service, there’s nothing trivial about hope.
Just 180 seconds of your time to hear all about the happenings at CSS through the month of September!
On this episode of the Hope in the Good Life Podcast, we sit down with Lanetta Kellogg, the recipient of Catholic Social Services’ Love of Christ Award, which she will be presented with at the Bountiful Harvest Celebration on October 12. Whenever you see Lanetta, she seems to always have a smile on her face—and she says that smile comes from the joy of serving others as a volunteer at CSS Hastings. Join us as Lanetta shares her inspiring story of faith, service, and the meaningful impact volunteering has had on her life and the lives of those she serves.
180 with Katie is a fast-paced, three-minute podcast from Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Each month, Executive Director Katie Patrick and Development Officer John Soukup share uplifting highlights of how CSS is bringing Hope in the Good Life. From volunteer stories to thrift store updates to the impact of family support programs, it’s a quick dose of hope and inspiration you won’t want to miss.
In this episode, we sit down with the new leadership team at CSS Hastings—Jonathan, CSS Hastings Regional Director; his wife, Teresa, CSS Hastings St. Joseph Gift & Thrift Store Manager; and Miranda, our CSS Hastings Development Officer. Together, they share their passion for serving the community, the exciting transition into a new building that will expand CSS’s outreach, and what’s ahead for the annual Bountiful Harvest Celebration dinner this October. It’s a conversation full of hope, fresh beginnings, and a look at how CSS continues to bring Hope in the Good Life to southcentral Nebraska.
"180 with Katie" is a quick, three-minute podcast from Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Hosted by Executive Director Katie Patrick and Development Officer John Soukup, each episode shares news, stories, and updates about how CSS brings food, shelter, and hope to neighbors across Southern Nebraska. In just about 180 seconds, listeners can hear how generosity, faith, and compassion are changing lives—and how together we can bring Hope in the Good Life.
In this episode of the Hope in the Good Life Podcast, John Soukup sits down with estate attorney and CSS supporter Bob Sullivan. Together they discuss the importance of having a will, how estate planning provides peace of mind for families, and how a will can reflect your faith and values. They also highlight CSS’s Legacy of Hope Society, an opportunity to leave a lasting impact by including Catholic Social Services in your estate plans.
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) (csshope.org) kicked off its 2025 fundraising season in grand style with the 21st annual Trumpet Fest on Sunday, February 16, at St. Joseph Church in Lincoln. Guests enjoyed an afternoon of exceptional music from some of the area’s finest trumpeters, including Kevin Murray, UNL’s Dr. Darryl White and the Darryl White Trio, and UNK’s Dr. Louie Eckhardt. Admission was free, and generous free-will offerings collected during the event will help support the vital programs of CSS.If you couldn’t make it — or want to enjoy it again — here’s the complete one-hour audio recording of Trumpet Fest. Sit back, press play, and enjoy every note from this unforgettable afternoon.
Johnny Ray was sentenced to life in prison, plus 50 years, for a crime he committed at just 17 years old. In the silence of an empty room after his sentencing, his painful cries of regret and hopelessness were met by an unexpected voice—the voice of God, telling him to have faith. That moment began a journey. First through the support of a religious sister, then others, Johnny experienced a spiritual conversion that transformed his life. Now, no longer behind bars, he’s dedicated to inspiring faith and hope in those still incarcerated. He shares his incredible story on this episode of Hope in the Good Life.
“At the end of the day, we feel the USA is our country, and the American flag will fly prominently.” Those are the words of Hasan Khalil, organizer of the first Youth World Cup Celebration sponsored by Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Hear Hasan talk about how he’s bringing 200 youth, most from refugee families, together for this event on July 23, at Clinton Elementary School in Lincoln from 5 to 7pm.
Of all the places in America they could continue their medical careers, two men from Nigeria found themselves building new lives in Imperial—a small town in southwestern Nebraska, surrounded by farmland and prairie, and a world away from home. Discover how Francis Oleru and Aloysius Aleke came to embrace this rural community as their own, and how Catholic Social Services helped weave their two journeys into one shared new beginning.
"Welcoming the Stranger" is a call to offer hospitality, shelter, and a sense of belonging to those who may be displaced, unfamiliar, or in need of assistance. It's also a Work of Mercy and thus an important component of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska's mission. In this podcast, CSS team member and attorney Brad Brestel shares how the CSS Immigration Legal Services staff helps provide hope for a new life in America with affordable legal aid.
The Diocese of Lincoln’s new Prison and Reentry Apostolate (PARA) focuses on bringing Christ’s love to incarcerated individuals and supporting their journey back into society. The apostolate is directed by Levi Baus, who is also the Volunteer Coordinator for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS). Hear Levi talk about this Work of Mercy and how it’s bringing Hope in the Good Life.
In the aftermath of the fall of Saigon in 1975, Lincoln was designated a "Refugee Friendly" city. This designation marked the beginning of a thriving Vietnamese community that continues to leave a lasting impact on Lincoln and the state. CSS helped resettle 257 Vietnamese refugees within the Diocese of Lincoln that year, mostly in Lincoln but also in Hastings. Among those first arrivals was Alex Tran, who was around 10 years old when his family, along with more than 20 relatives, arrived in Lincoln. Alex reminisces with us about that escape from his home country and what that experience was like through the eyes of a child.
You’re invited to join CSS for a Sustainability Open House on April 24, 2025. Director of Sustainability, Jamie Carson, tells us this engaging event aims to highlight CSS’s ongoing sustainability efforts, foster community feedback, and promote environmental stewardship, with a special focus on youth, families, and teachers.
Bill and Stacie Hooks have always believed in the importance of giving back as a way to show gratitude for the blessings in their lives. As the owners of Slim Chickens restaurants in Lincoln, they have been dedicated supporters of Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska for years. This year, their generosity continues as they proudly serve as the silent auction sponsor (https://events.handbid.com/lp/celebration-of-hope-auction) for the Celebration of Hope Gala & Silent Auction on March 15. Tune in to hear their inspiring story and the impact they’re making in the community!
At this year’s 38th Annual Celebration of Hope Gala, we are privileged to honor a true example of servant leadership. Mike Hosek has been named the recipient of the CSS Heart of Christ Award, and in this podcast, you'll hear how his early experiences shaped his commitment to leadership and service. Discover how Mike has brought more Hope in the Good Life to those served through the CSS Food Market and Meal Services Program. His story is a powerful reminder that living out the Gospel doesn’t require changing the whole world at once—it simply calls us to keep saying yes to the opportunities before us.
While the potential impact from the Trump administration on refugee programs is still uncertain, CSS remains committed to serving the needs of all vulnerable individuals within our community. In this podcast, we hear about the hope provided by CSS to people who we have served through our Refugee Resettlement program. Once they are “welcomed home,” CSS does much to provide a real home.
Hear how supporters of the St. Gianna Program at CSS and other Pregnancy Help Organizations can earn more than just a tax deduction thanks to recently enacted legislation called the Nebraska Pregnancy Help Act that creates a win-win for all involved.
What does it mean to be a part of the CSS Legacy of Hope Society? It means that through your generosity, you can support CSS in different ways, long into the future. Chris Raun of the Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska explains several financial strategies designed to not only support CSS but also provide tax breaks to benefit you and/or your family.
“It saved my life being here,” says Stephanie and current resident of St. Gianna Women’s Home in Lincoln. During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Stephanie talks about her life as a victim of domestic violence that included having her leg run over by a truck, black eyes, bruised ribs, being strangled, and a lot of verbal abuse - all things she began to accept as normal in a relationship. Now she has a full-time job, people at St. Gianna’s she calls family, and a whole different outlook on life that is full of hope.
CSS is celebrating TWO DECADES of southeastern Nebraska HOPE IN THE GOOD LIFE on October 5. We'll have food trucks, face painting, fun contests/freebies, and more. Auburn Regional Director April Boellstorff joins us to talk a little about the history of St. Francis Gift and Thrift and why it is such a special place for those in need in southeast Nebraska.
A little over 25 years ago, John Brooks was invited to be a volunteer at Hastings Catholic Social Services. Despite a disability that has caused him to use of a scooter to get around, he still has the same joy and drive to bring Hope in the Good Life to those we serve. John will be honored for his volunteerism with the Love of Christ Award at the Hastings CSS Bountiful Harvest Celebration on September 29. In this podcast, John talks about why he loves to help feed those in need and what he gets back in return.
During challenging times, it's essential to reflect on our blessings and consider sharing them with others. Including CSS in your will, trust, or other financial plans is an act of love and stewardship, creating a Legacy of Hope. In this podcast, we preview our Legacy of Hope presentation at CSS in Lincoln on August 22 at 7 pm. Scott Yates from the Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska gives us an idea of what you can do to have peace of mind and ensure that your values and priorities are honored long after you’ve left this earth.
The 2024 Walk to End Hunger event August 4 has a goal of 35,000 pounds of food and dollars to support the CSS Food Market in Lincoln. Organizer Mike Hosek and Food Market Manager Kristina Brandl talk about how that goal will be reached and how desperate the need is to nourish our neighbors and bring Hope in the Good Life.
“Our world is experiencing a mental health crisis. Anxiety and depression weigh heavily on the lives of many people.” So says Bishop James Conley of the Diocese of Lincoln as he talks about his own battle with mental health and how his recovery is ongoing. In this interview, he also talks about why there can be A Future with Hope, as reflected in his recent pastoral letter of the same name.
Several local businesses have come together to present a used vehicle along with money they raised for a family who recently endured the heartbreaking loss of their unborn child following an auto accident that also totaled their car. CSS teamed up with a group called BNI to provide this hope on wheels, and Kendall Warnock of A1 Automotive and Todd Speidell of Eustis Body Shop tell us how fulfilling it is to bring this Hope in the Good Life.
Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) has greatly benefited from its longstanding partnership with Sandhills Global. Jim Hansen, Outreach Coordinator for Sandhills Global, emphasizes how their mission aligns with CSS in providing "Hope in the Good Life” for many across Nebraska.
If it weren't for our volunteers, CSS would not be able to accomplish the works of mercy for so many through our various programs and services. In honor of National Volunteer Week, Mike and Aggie Gesch talk about their work as volunteers in the CSS Lincoln Food Market, and the fact that they are both inspired and humbled to help provide more Hope in the Good Life to so many.
Whenever you put an ‘e’ in front of something, it usually means ‘electronic.’ When it comes to Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) and our e-commerce offerings, the ‘e’ could also mean evangelize, extra, and environmental. CSS Director of E-commerce Mario Racicot talks about how his work fits in with the CSS core value of Sustainability.
Discover the Vincentians and their collaboration with Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) to instill Hope in the Good Life. Larry Ellerbeck, both a Vincentian and the president of the St. Vincent de Paul Society's Lincoln Chapter, shares insights into how his team engages with individuals in their homes. Collaborating with CSS, they offer assistance with utilities, rent payments, food, furniture, gas, and beds.To learn more about joining the Vincentians, reach out to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at contact@lincolnsvdpcouncil.org or connect with your local parish. Individuals in need can contact 402-HELP YOU (402-435-7968) for assistance.
Sandra’s face is the first one many of our clients see at CSS; She, in turn, sees the face of Christ in every neighbor who comes to us for help. As a point of first contact, CSS Lincoln Office Manager Sandra Svajdlenka greets our agency's clients, discerns their needs, and connects them with resources. And, in one very blessed instance, she became a Godmother, too. In this podcast, Sandra shares several powerful stories of the hope she brings to people, the hope she gets in return from those she serves, and how we can work together to inspire hope and love in every encounter.
How does a wife and a mother of nine kids find time to even think about volunteering and making a difference in the lives of others? Emily Villa tells us how in this uplifting and tearful witness to the power of finding beauty, dignity, and even fun in the little things that can make a big difference in the lives of others. Emily, her husband Mike, and her family will be honored at the CSS Celebration of Hope dinner on February 25 as recipients of the Heart of Christ Award. Emily tells us how she learned that when serving others, she’s also being served by God.
St. Gianna Program Manager Veronica Hotovy talks about how we all need to be surrounded by a little love in order to find hope now and in the future. That's what the St. Gianna Program (SGP) does for women escaping domestic violence. To help support that program, Carole Fest will take place on December 10th to raise funds for this vital program. Veronica tells us why it's important to support SGP and how it nurtures "Hope in the Good Life."
He's been a "bean counter" for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska (CSS) for 24 years, and he's still amazed at what those beans have done for CSS. Bill Meduna talks about his time with CSS as Vice President of Operations, and why this agency is such a great place to work.
Katie Patrick, the Executive Director of CSS, discusses the recently unveiled transformation of the CSS headquarters in Lincoln. This extensive renovation and expansion project has introduced elements designed to enhance the facility's overall appeal, creating a more inviting and hospitable environment that promises to be a noteworthy addition to the capital city.
Bill Murphy fervently advocates for volunteering with Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, extending his recommendation to everyone he encounters. He cherishes his volunteering experiences because, in the face of his faltering eyesight, he can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who require assistance. This dedication has earned Bill the prestigious Life of Christ Award, which will be presented to him at this year's Bountiful Harvest Dinner in Hastings on October 8. In this podcast, Bill shares his story of how he discovered CSS, and how he's helping others "see" hope as a volunteer.
We find Hope in the Good Life in southcentral Nebraska, and in the art being produced by Sondra Jonson. She owns SL Jonson Studios in Cambridge, Nebraska, and has donated much of her art to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska, and other charities. Like CSS, her art provides Hope to those who may be inspired by her creations. As a supporter of CSS, she talks about the importance of giving back, and in doing so, providing the hope so many need. (See her work at www.sljonsonstudios.com.)
In this episode of Hope in the Good Life, we take a walk to end hunger…or at least hear about how we can Walk to End Hunger on August 6, 2023, in Lincoln. Mike Hosek tells us how he coordinates this annual event to benefit the CSS Lincoln Food Market. CSS Food Market Manager Doris Schueth also talks about why this event, and the Food Market in general, is so important.
This year’s Catholic Social Services Memorial Golf Classic and Auction is being held in memory of Jose Quintero, a long-time volunteer who passed away in June of 2021. His wife Mary joins John Soukup in this podcast to share some stories of this amazing man, and how a flower reminds her that Jose is watching over her to this day, providing a special message of Hope in the Good Life.
Abdulrazzak Alkoutaini, or "Abdul," is a refugee from war-torn Syria. While starting a new life in a new country can be hard, he said when he and his family were greeted with the words "Welcome Home" by a CSS refugee case worker after arriving in Lincoln, the fear of the unknown disappeared. He is now a CSS refugee case worker himself, and he continues to use those same words when greeting new Nebraskans as he helps them start their new lives.
As a refugee, Abdul said it felt so good when the CSS caseworker said to him “Welcome Home.” Now he continues to use those two words hwhen he greets new refugees as a CSS case worker himself. Abdul shares his story of fleeing Syria and making a new life for his family in Nebraska.
''Love and sacrifice are closely linked, like the sun and the light. We cannot love without suffering and we cannot suffer without love.'' That quote from St. Gianna reflects the work of the Marian Sisters who are advocates for the women escaping domestic violence and live at St. Gianna Women’s Home. From this 24 unit apartment complex in Lincoln, we hear how Sr. Carol, Sr. Karen, and Sr. Bernadette help these women and families experience love for themselves, and make the necessary sacrifices to build better lives and find Hope in the Good Life.
Diana Amaya didn't know six years ago that getting a food pantry from Hastings Catholic Social Services would eventually change her life. This survivor of domestic violence is now helping others find Hope in the Good Life as a bilingual emergency services coordinator and case manager for Hastings CSS. Diana tells us how the Holy Spirit guided her to where she is today.
Dr. Don Foote needed to get out of the house. His wife had died a few years ago and he needed to keep busy in order to stave off loneliness. Working in the CSS workshop, which he calls St. Joseph's Workshop, provided the hope he needed to use his talents and benefit others. Now he provides Hope in the Good Life as a volunteer at Catholic Social Services in Hastings.
Shirley Lang has humbly made a difference over the years. This year's Heart of Christ Award winner has worked with Catholic Social Services (CSS) over the years having young women who chose life for their child, stay with her during and after their pregnancies. Her love for His children extended to refugees fleeing violence. Years ago, CSS came across a teenaged boy who arrived from Cambodia and was living on the street. Shirley and her family opened their home to this young man, who stayed with the Lang's for two or three years. Hear how she felt so compelled to reflect the heart of Christ through the years.
In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform each year.
In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform with him every year.
In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform with him every year.
In case you missed Trumpet Fest 2023 on February 19, here are a few selections recorded at this annual event to benefit Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Special thanks to Kevin Murray who both organizes and performs at this event for nearly two decades, bringing talented guests to perform with him every year.
For almost 20 years, Kevin Murray has been raising money for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska with his trumpet. He heads up "Trumpet Fest," taking place on February 19 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Lincoln. Kevin tells us how this event not only inspires, but also gives back in so many different ways through the gift of music.
Since 2010, Kay Wessel has been providing hope in the good life one diaper at a time throughout southern Nebraska. The diaper drives she's helped to organize through the years has resulted in more than a million diapers going to needy families. Kay tells us what inspired her to start this project and how it has gotten national and international attention.
After retiring from a successful professional career, John White wanted to find a way to give back to the community. Passionate about immigration and migration issues and following Catholic social teaching with regard to welcoming the stranger and the dignity of the human person, he chose to volunteer at CSS. He tells us how his work in cultural orientation is fulfilling.
Lindsay was in an abusive relationship, but knew there had to be a way out. She knew that God wanted something more for her and her son, so she prayed for a solution, and soon found St. Gianna Women's Homes.
Ameer Damanhoury didn’t know much about CSS when we first met. The more he learned about the services we provide, the more compelled he felt to give back. The importance of giving back was something his mother taught him when he was a child through her example of helping the poor.
Roy and Charlene Diers will be honored with the Love of Christ Award at the Hastings Catholic Social Services Bountiful Harvest Banquet on October 30, 2022. Charlene talks about how a saint inspires she and her husband to do the small things that make a big difference.
Born in a refugee camp in Africa, Nyabuoy Chan never imagined moving to America as a young adult to start a new life. She now uses that experience in her role as a CSS Refugee Resettlement and Senior Case Manager to help others find hope in the good life in Lincoln, a city she calls very friendly and welcoming to new arrivals.
Elaine Wagener has been a "greedy" volunteer at Catholic Social Services for more than a dozen years. Greedy, in the sense that she loves doing things that make her happy. Elaine tells us why she gets more out of volunteering than what she puts in.
Despite facing terminal cancer, Mary is not afraid of dying. She’s not afraid because she’s found hope in her faith and the love she and her young daughter feel from the people around them, including those at Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska.
A nurse for over 35 years, Sherry was used to helping people. However, her generosity got her into financial trouble in retirement, and she could not pay her rent and other bills. Hear how Sherry got back on her feet by asking for help from Catholic Social Services and the Emergency Services program.
Steve Sousek is on a mission to fuse his love of running with his passion for the pro-life movement, supporting both unborn children and women in crisis. It’s why he formed “Runborn,” and he is raising money for Catholic Social Services' St. Gianna Women’s Homes(SGWH)and the Lincoln’s Women’s Care Center by “running for their lives” July 22-23, 2022. In this podcast, Steve talks about how he’s helping to bring hope in the good life to these women and their unborn babies.
You are invited to Walk to End Hunger! John Soukup interviews Mike Hosek, coordinator of the August 7, 2022, event to raise funds and food for the CSS Food Market in Lincoln. The event is sponsored by BetterLife and Knights of Columbus Council 13576 (at St. Patrick Catholic Church). You can donate online at bit.ly/walk426-13576. To participate, email Mike at mikehosek72@hotmail.com or call 402.570.9294, or just show up the day of the event!
A group of young missionaries is in Lincoln, Nebraska, this summer that are committed to learning more about their Faith and themselves while serving the poor. They are bringing hope in the good life to our homeless friends and sharing their experience and expertise with CSS.
Recognized as a nationwide leader in the integration of contemporary scientific psychology and the Christian vision of the human person, the Immaculate Heart of Mary Counseling Center (IHMCC) is another avenue through which Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska provides "hope in the good life". Vice President of Clinical Services and licensed psychologist Dr. Courtney Miller talks about the wide array of services IHMCC provides.
Faheem Rashidi and his family came to this country from Afghanistan in 2000 and were resettled in Lincoln by Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. Today, he is a successful businessman who shares his story of how he found hope in the good life.
Once again, Catholic Social Services is participating in Give Hastings Day (a 24-hour fundraising event scheduled for 5/5/22). In this podcast, hear Hastings CSS Regional Director, John McDonald, talk about the many services CSS Hastings provides, and why we’re excited to be a part of this event.
Kathy Florence has a love of art, and of the mission of Catholic Social Services. Hear how she uses her artistic gift to bring more hope to the good life.
More than 100 Afghan refugees arrived in Lincoln within a few short weeks after escaping from home country. Catholic Social Services Refugee Resettlement Services helped these new Nebraskans settle in to a new country and culture. Resettlement Director Poe Dee, and Senior Case Manager Elham Fazli talk to John Soukup of CSS about their experiences.
Renee Cunningham is a volunteer for Catholic Social Services of Southern Nebraska. In this interview with CSS Development Officer John Soukup, Renee shares her experience of organizing a drive to provide household items for over 100 Afghan refugees arriving around the same time in Lincoln, Nebraska.
St. Gianna Women's Homes (SGWH) is a place of refuge for survivors of domestic violence & crisis pregnancies. Catholic Social Services Development Officer John Soukup interviews "Nikki," a resident of SGWH, as she shares how she discovered hope for herself and her children.
In this interview, CSS Executive Director Katie Patrick talks to host John Soukup about being the first woman, wife, and mother to lead the organization. She also shares a few of the challenges faced (and successes celebrated!) in her short time as Executive Director.