CAMDEN – Catholic Charities of South Jersey has recognized two longtime members of its annual dinner committee, and their commitment to serving those in need.
Alice Beckett, who has been on the Annual Dinner & Awards Ceremony committee since 2013, received the Outstanding Volunteer Award, while Edward O’Malley, who has served on the committee since the dinner’s inception in 2003, received the Lifetime Service Award.
Dr. Maria Elena Hallion, Catholic Charities of South Jersey’s executive director, and Stacy Napolitano, director of Development for the Diocese of Camden, were on hand July 30 as the awards were presented during an agency-wide gathering in Catholic Charities’ Camden offices.
“Alice Beckett is a pillar, guiding voice, thoughtful presence and loyal supporter of Catholic Charities,” Napolitano said. “She embodies the Gospel call to serve, and her insights have touched every detail of the dinner – from the music that filled the room and menu that nourished our guests, to the ambiance that set the tone for many beautiful evenings.”
A teacher in public and Catholic schools in South Jersey for more than 50 years – which included time as a substitute at Saint Rose of Lima School, Haddon Heights – Beckett, who is now retired, is a parishioner of Saint Rose of Lima Parish.
“My faith teaches me to help others,” she said, quick to compliment those she’s collaborated with over the years in planning each fundraising dinner. “I’ve always looked forward to every committee meeting, [working with] with the nicest, caring, generous and most compassionate people I know.”
Beckett has also enjoyed getting to know those around the Diocese who help their brothers and sisters in need, including the Disciples of Mercy honored at the dinner each fall.
“I wish I could give my plaque to them,” she said. “Watching the good work they do has kept me going and inspired.”
In presenting the Catholic Charities Annual Dinner’s Lifetime Service Award to O’Malley, Napolitano praised his “steady guidance, thoughtful leadership and unwavering commitment.”
“O’Malley is a constant source of warmth, kindness and faith, whose leadership and heart have shaped this event from a concept to a long-standing tradition,” she said. “Thank you for your vision, service and for the love you’ve poured into this event since day one.”
The retired insurance agent has been involved with the dinner since initially serving on its fundraising committee; today, he is the chairman, a position he has held for more than a decade.
“I feel unworthy, and humbly accept this award on behalf of the Catholic Charities staff, who do all the heavy lifting, delivering services every day,” O’Malley said. “The needs keep increasing, and it’s a passion of all of ours to continue this work.”
The recognition followed an opening prayer by Father Jon Thomas, vicar general of the Diocese of Camden.
The meeting also included an opportunity for Catholic Charities staff ministering in the Diocese’s six counties – Atlantic, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem – to share their work in the organization’s various departments. Their ministries include outreach to veterans; individuals and families facing homelessness, food insecurity, addictions and more; and immigrants, refugees and migrants.
This year’s annual dinner will be held Oct. 16 at Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City. Last year’s event raised more than $130,000, with every penny used for direct client assistance. For more information, visit catholiccharitiessouthjersey.org/ccad.
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