Hope in the Good Life Podcast

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 our Hope in the Good Life podcast, 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 Program Manager Doris Schueth shares why this event, and the CSS Food Market in general, is a nourishing source of HOPE IN THE GOOD LIFE for our neighbors needing a hand-up.

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 women escaping domestic violence who receive services through our St. Gianna Program (SGP). In this podcast, 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 children stay with her during and after their pregnancies. Her love for His children extended to refugees fleeing violence. Years ago, CSS encountered a teenage 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 Langs for more than two 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.