FORT WALTON BEACH
p=. Welcome to Catholic Charities Ft. Walton Beach Regional Office Serving Okaloosa and Walton Counties!DID YOU KNOW:
* Both counties increased their population by 18-46% over a 10 year period; * 30% of Okaloosa residents/23% of Walton residents pay more than 30% of their income for housing; * 20% of Okaloosa County households 29% in Walton County are headed by someone who is 65yoa or older; * Approximately 29% of those elderly households in Okaloosa County pay more than 30% of their incomes on housing, 21% in Walton County; * Children between the ages of 0-17, approximately 15% in Okaloosa and 22% in Walton, live in poverty; * 30% of mothers in Okaloosa County and 36% of mothers in Walton County are single, unwed mothers; * Poverty levels and literacy levels correlate, impacting employment and the potential of our community; * Inmates transitioning from incarceration into the community experience even more problems due to their criminal histories and sanctions imposed on them as they re-enter the community- nearly 70% aren’t equipped to perform tasks like writing a letter; many may have learning disabilities
With your help and support, we can make a difference.
Help us to help others: PROVIDE HELP. CREATE HOPE.
CURRENT INITIATIVES:
We’re working hard on new initiatives for 2008 to serve you better. Check back often for news and updates on our services.
* Adoption Program Development – With the assistance of the Pensacola Adoption Program, this program will once again be established in the Ft. Walton Beach community. * Case Management Program Establishment – Case management provides opportunities for individuals and families to access resources and support that enhances their strengths, increases their skills and empowers them to make positive life changes. We are currently working hard to establish this life-changing program. * Money Puzzle – Financial skill building; basics to advanced. Individual appointments available. * Holiday Appeal & Sponsorship Programs – We are wrapping up our Christmas Program for 2007, but if you, your business, or service group are interested in sponsoring a family or donating to our Holiday Program for 2008, please call our office or send email to ketchelc@cc.ptdiocese.org
UPCOMING EVENTS:
We welcome opportunities to collaborate with others. We’re open to all kinds of ideas, from sporting events to theater to anything else you might be considering. If you would like to sponsor a special event to help raise money to support the mission of Catholic Charities FWB, please call or email Carolyn Ketchel, Regional Director ketchelc@cc.ptdiocese.org
Also see:
2005-2006 Annual Report
2006-2007 Annual Report
Donation Information
Volunteer Information
Don’t have time to volunteer, but want to help make a difference?
DONATIONS:
Catholic Charities FWB is in need of the following items:
Baby and Nursery Items
Arts and Crafts Supplies suitable for children through adult
Children’s Story Books suitable for ages 2-5
School Supplies for Elementary, Middle School and High School
*Non-Perishable Food Items
Would you like to receive information about Catholic Charities FWB news and events? Send an email to ketchelc@cc.ptdiocese.org
Please indicate if you would like to receive information by USPS or email. Include your name, mailing address, and email address. We respect your privacy; we will not share your information with anyone else.
REGIONAL STAFF*
Carolyn N. Ketchel, LCSW, Regional Director
Julie Hurlbert, Caseworker
Ann Imburgio, Counselor
Jane Williams, Administrative Assistant II
Sabrina Holdman, Administrative Assistant I
Steven Lambert, Receptionist
11 First Street, S.E.
Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32548
Phone: 850-244-2825
Fax: 850-664-9146
Public Office Hours
Monday – Thursday: 8:30a-4:30p
Friday: 8:30a-12p
map it
Services:
Counseling Services
Emergency Assistance
Adoption Counseling
REGIONAL BOARD
Jane Carter, President
John Rafferty, Vice President
Jean Jordan, Secretary
Maria Langlois, Treasurer
Nancy Beukenkamp
Dee Chernicky
Larry Keefe Esq.
Dr. Robert Larson
Caroline Maney
Kit Quirk
David Simpson, Esq.
Bob Webb
Tom & Nancy Weidenhamer.
The Good Shepherd Mural
Christmas Tea