PALM BEACH | Catholic Charities celebrated its 15th annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala Jan. 30, 2025, with an unforgettable evening at the historic Breakers Hotel. It marked the gala’s Crystal Jubilee in support of essential outreach programs that are transforming lives within our communities.
It was a night of inspiration, celebration and charity. The ballroom was filled with guests who share a common commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of local people in need. The event raised much-needed funds that will aid Catholic Charities’ life-changing programs and ministries that help the poor and most vulnerable community members, irrespective of race or religion.
The 2025 Caritas Dei award was presented to Kathryn and Leo Vecellio for their community contributions improving the lives of people in need. Dorothy Harper received the Caritas Spiritus Sanctus award for her volunteer efforts with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach. Father William O’Shea received the Caritas Christi award, given annually to ordained clergy or the member of a professed religious community in honor of their efforts to use their vocation in service to others.
Debra Tornaben, Catholic Charities’ development director, said, “Our work is never-ending, but our strength lies in the support of people like: Presenting Crystal Honorary sponsors the Fanjul family and Florida Crystals; Crystal Guardians of Hope sponsors Kathryn and Leo Vecellio; chairwoman emeritus Marietta Muiña McNulty; honorary chairmen and sponsors James Borynack, Adolfo Zaralegui, Findlay Galleries, and Kathy and Paul Leone; major sponsors The Samuel J. and Connie M. Frankino Foundation, and Nursing Services of Palm Beach; and all of the attendees and supporters of this annual event.”
For more information on how you can make a difference in the lives of people in need, call 561-360-3334 or visit www.ccdpb.org.
