 | Catholic Charities USA President to Serve on the Newly Created President’s Council of Faith-based and Neighborhood PartnershipsWashington, DC—Today in the Oval Office of the White House, Rev. Larry Snyder, president of Catholic Charities USA became one of the first to be named to the newly created President’s Council of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships. President Barack Obama, by Executive Order, created the new office to be headed by Joshua DuBois. The Council will advise the new office and offer advice on policy issues to the President. Father Snyder will work with the staff of the Oval Office and 24 other religious and community leaders of diverse political, religious, and community backgrounds from across the country. In serving individuals, families and communities, Catholic Charities work tirelessly to promote a consistent ethic of life. As a member of the Council, he will represent a rich tradition of service to the most vulnerable and marginalized and advocate on behalf of the dignity of all human beings. “I am honored to accept President Obama’s appointment,” said Father Snyder. “Representing centuries of collaboration between Catholic Charities agencies and the government, our network looks forward to continuing this partnership, especially in these critical times. For almost 300 years Catholic Charities have been faithful to our mission of advocating on behalf of, convening groups to improve the lives of and directly serving the poor—the most vulnerable in our society.” Following in the historical role of past Catholic Charities leaders like Father John A. Ryan and Msgr. John O’Grady, Father Snyder will bring an organized voice representing the poor and voiceless to this national conversation at this critical hour,” said Brian R. Corbin, executive director of Catholic Charities Services in Youngstown, OH. Father Snyder is the president of Caritas North America, vice president of Caritas Internalionalis and appointed by Pope Benedict XVI to the Pontifical Council of Cor Unum, which oversees the charitable works of the Catholic Church worldwide. He serves on the boards of Independent Sector, Catholic Health Association and The NonProfit Times named him as one of the top 50 leaders of nonprofit organizations in 2008. Editor’s notes: -30- | |