Insights and Encounters

In this episode, we speak with Felicia Kontopidis, the Director of Care at Journey Home Hospice , a program of the St. Elizabeth Foundation. Felicia delves into the unique dynamics of providing compassionate, end-of-life care to individuals experiencing homelessness and structural vulnerability. Key Takeaways: Path to Purpose   Felicia shares her journey from working in the service industry to bec...

In this episode, we speak with Brian Joel, the Director of Brottier Refugee Services , a ministry of the Spiritans, along with Bob and Nancy McElhinney, dedicated volunteers who have worked closely with a refugee family as they learn English. Together, they shed light on the process of refugee sponsorship in Canada and share personal experiences on the vital support structures needed to help refug...

In this episode, we speak with John Guido, a long-term leader within the L'Arche community, and Nicholas Herd, a passionate advocate and creative force at L'Arche . They share their experiences and insights into this vibrant and inclusive global community that celebrates people with and without intellectual disabilities living together. Key Takeaways 1. Origin and Mission of L'Arche Originally roo...

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Agnes Thomas, Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto (CCAT). Dr. Thomas delves into her values-driven leadership, the historic roots of Catholic social teaching, and how these principles guide the work of CCAT and its member agencies today.   Key Takeaways: 1) Values-Driven Leadership : Dr. Thomas shares how her alignment with the...

In this episode, we are joined by Priscilla Manful, Executive Director of  Catholic Children's Aid Society of Toronto. Priscilla sheds light on the organization's rich history and unwavering commitment to serving children and families with compassion and care. Key Takeaways Shared Decision-Making in Child Welfare Involving family members in decision-making processes leads to better outcomes in chi...

In this episode, we speak with Pat Colucci, the Administrator of the Cardinal Ambrozic Houses of Providence, part of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto. Pat provides an insightful look into the history and ongoing mission of providing compassionate care to the most vulnerable members of society. Key Takeaways: Historical Roots and Mission : The Houses of Providence trace their origin...

In this episode we speak with Madonna Gallo, the Chief Strategy Officer and Senior Vice President at St. Elizabeth Healthcare. Madonna highlights St. Elizabeth's historical roots and its ongoing mission to foster social change through healthcare services. Key Takeaways   Origin and Mission of St. Elizabeth Healthcare St. Elizabeth Healthcare, inspired by the charitable legacy of Elizabeth of Hunga...

In this episode we speak with Brenda Spitzer, Executive Director of Catholic  Family Services of Toront o. Brenda shares the rich history and impactful work of the organization, which has been serving the community for over a century. 🔍 Three key takeaways from our conversation: Rooted in Compassion : The agency's rich history is deeply rooted in the Catholic principles of inclusion and meeting p...

In part three of our conversation with former CCAT Executive Director, Michael Fullan, we discuss the challenges and evolution of charity work over the years, the power of collaboration among member agencies, calls for systemic change, and innovative approaches in the work of CCAT.. Our discussion also delves into the societal shifts within the Archdiocese of Toronto, the ongoing call to faith and...

In this episode, we continue our  conversation with Michael Fullan, about the development of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Toronto and its member agencies. We discuss the emergence of new social challenges in Toronto in the early 20th century, and how Catholic charities addressed these challenges by providing settlement services and support for vulnerable populations, such as single imm...

Join former CCAT executive director, Michael Fullan, as he takes us on a journey into the early days of Catholic Charities in the Archdioceses of Toronto. With a nod to history and a focus on the present, Fullan shares stories of compassion, community, and hope. Explore the origins of CCAT, the role of parishes, and the vision of serving the poor as a privileged source of God's presence and salvat...

Join us as we begin a journey that a powerful vision for social justice and service, as expressed in the work of CCAT and it's member agenices. This inaugural episode sets the stage for future discussions on the pressing concerns and transformative practices aimed at promoting human dignity and creating a just society throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto and beyond. Welcome to this journey of lea...