Contact:             

Lindsay Hansen                              

Catholic Charities                          

480.205.6195                    

PHOENIX, Ariz. (Oct. 22, 2008)… Catholic Charities Phoenix Regional Service Center is seeking nominations for its 2009 Annual Awards Dinner.  Next April, the nonprofit organization will recognize outstanding individuals in Maricopa County for their good works and volunteerism.  Nominations are due Friday, Dec. 12 and winners will be honored at a dinner ceremony on Tuesday, April 14 at the Moon Valley Country Club. 

“Each year, we look forward to honoring and recognizing the efforts of dedicated and caring individuals who work wonders everyday, ” said Tom Egan, Phoenix Regional Service Center Director.  “The Annual Awards Dinner has become an event many community supporters and donors look forward to each year.”

Nominations for the Prophet Amos Award are open to the public.  The award recognizes a person of any faith who demonstrates the passion of the Prophet Amos for the little-loved and little-respected, marginalized members of our society. Amos was a beacon for justice and righteousness and condemned those who “trampled on the head of the poor and pushed the afflicted out of the way.” 

The Magnificat Award recognizes a member of any Catholic parish in Maricopa County who demonstrates remarkable love and service to those in need. 

Applications for the 2009 Prophet Amos and Magnificat Awards can be obtained by calling Pat Williams at 602-749-4421 or via e-mail at pwilliams@cc-az.org.

Tickets for this year’s event are $75 per person or tables of ten can be purchased for $750. Business, Corporate and Individual sponsorships are also available.  For more information about becoming a sponsor or to reserve seating, please contact Pat Williams at 602-749-4421 or via e-mail at pwilliams@cc-az.org.

About Catholic Charities

Founded in 1933, Catholic Charities Community Services is one of Arizona’s oldest and largest nonprofit organizations which offers a diverse range of social services that strengthen families, protect and nurture children, and support people in crisis.  Catholic Charities serves people of all ages and faiths.  Last year, the charitable organization provided over 50 programs at 100 locations to more than 200,000 people in central and northern Arizona.  Catholic Charities is a member organization of Catholic Charities USA which is the largest private network of social service organizations in the United States working to support families, reduce poverty, and build communities.  The organization is accredited by the Council on Accreditation of Children and Family Services.  To learn more about Catholic Charities visit CatholicCharitiesAZ.org.

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