Catholic Charities honors service and hope at annual Helping Hands Gala
By Melanie Sisinni10/14/2025
The spirit of generosity filled Gannon University’s Yehl Ballroom on Thursday, October 9, as Catholic Charities hosted its annual Helping Hands Gala. The event celebrated the individuals and organizations whose faith-driven service brings hope to those most in need across the 13 counties of the diocese.
Master of ceremonies Jan Stork opened the evening with a mix of humor and heartfelt reflection, setting the tone for a night centered on gratitude, community and mission. Guests enjoyed dinner, music by Tennessee Back Porch, a lively silent auction and inspiring messages from agency leaders and honorees.
In her welcoming remarks, Erin Tubbs, executive director of Catholic Charities, expressed gratitude for the partners, donors and volunteers who make the agency’s mission possible.
“While it might seem we would have plenty of reason to be discouraged, we have chosen instead to press forward in hope,” said Tubbs.
Tubbs shared that Catholic Charities distributed more than $225,000 in grants this year, a 50% increase from 2024, along with new programs such as housewarming kits for families transitioning into permanent housing and expanded Christmas outreach efforts.
“The challenges we face are many and difficult,” added Tubbs, “but the opportunities to engage are plentiful and exciting.”
Bishop Lawrence Persico also addressed attendees, connecting the evening to the wider diocesan celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope.
“We are reminded that hope is not only a gift we receive but a gift we are called to share with one another,” said Bishop Persico. “Because of your support, Catholic Charities can extend real help, and real hope, where it matters most.”
The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Helping Hands Awards, recognizing those who embody Christ’s call to serve.
The Helping Hands of Service Award was presented to Christopher and Maria Ehrman of Our Lady of Peace Parish in Erie, honoring their decades of parish and community involvement. In accepting the award, Chris Ehrman shared that service has always been at the heart of their family’s faith.
“We have always believed that helping others is a cornerstone of what it means to be Catholic,” said Erhman. “Sometimes that means offering encouraging words to a student or coworker; other times it’s volunteering as a coach, youth group leader or faith formation facilitator. We just try to be good Catholics.”
He went on to reflect on the meaning of the award.
“In a room full of such dedicated and selfless individuals, this recognition is both overwhelming and deeply inspiring,” said Erhman. “This honor isn’t just ours. It belongs to all the incredible people we’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Together, we’ve shown that small acts of kindness really can make a difference in the lives of people in our parish, diocese and beyond.”
The Helping Hands of Justice Award was given to Joseph Tarquinio of Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Harborcreek for his lifelong dedication to advocacy, education and ministry, especially through his work with the Maria House Project and prison outreach.
Reflecting on his faith journey, Tarquinio said, “I’m a recovering sinner, and a spoiled child of God, because God has blessed me so much.”
He credited his late father and early mentors for instilling in him a spirit of compassion.
“My dad gave me and my brothers the most precious gift anyone can give - his time,” Tarquinio shared. “And when I was 13, my spiritual director, Father Peterson, taught me that it doesn’t matter who comes into your life - their race, religion, or choices - they are all children of God, and you are called to serve them.”
Tarquinio closed his remarks with humility and humor.
“This award is nice, but someday when we stand before God, I don’t think He’s going to ask about our awards. I think He’ll ask, ‘Who did you serve?’ So if you don’t mind, I’ll keep working on that list - and I’ll put you on mine if you put me on yours.”
As the evening drew to a close, Stork reminded guests why their support matters.
“You may never meet the person you help,” said Stork, “but your gift, your presence and your generosity can change everything for someone who’s hurting. Giving help is easy. It’s holy.”
View photos from the celebration here.
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