Archbishop Edward F. Hoban Award
For
Distinguished Service to the Diocese of Cleveland
Presented to
St. Philip Neri Family Center
Whereas, the St. Philip Neri Family Center graciously and humbly serves the people of the St. Clair-Superior Neighborhood in the city of Cleveland by acting on Catholic social teaching and reaching out with the hands of Christ to help families, the homeless, the working poor, unemployed, and senior citizens. Whereas, through faithful leadership, a dedicated staff, and the fiscal responsibility of Catholic Charities Health and Human Services, the St. Philip Neri Family Center is a hub and anchor to one of Cleveland’s near eastside neighborhoods.
Whereas, the St. Philip Neri Family Center acts with Christian responsibility to provide an ever-growing host of programs that meet the needs of the vulnerable and marginalized. These programs include Head Start, Health/Medical Assistance & Referrals, The Coffeehouse, Hot Meal Program, Pantry Program, AA Meetings, Children’s Summer Lunch Program, GED Preparation, Afterschool Tutoring, Young Parent Program, Summer Camp, Summer Tutoring, Head Start Administrative Services, Volunteer Community Policing Team, and Project Hope.
Whereas, the St. Philip Neri Family Center honors their history, which began in the early 20th century with the establishment of St. Philip Neri Parish. The parish brought Catholic education as well as many meaningful ministries and services to the community. Today this site, which was blessed by a courageous faith-filled community, continues to strengthen the Church throughout the Diocese of Cleveland and honors St. Philip Neri, the apostle of Rome, by providing programs and giving hope to people of all ages, regardless of income, disability, race or religion.
Therefore, I, The Most Reverend Richard G. Lennon, Bishop of the Diocese of Cleveland, do bestow the highest honor granted to an individual or organization, The Archbishop Edward F. Hoban Award. This award memorializes Archbishop Edward F. Hoban, whose devout spiritual leadership fueled the largest expansion of programs in education, social services and ecclesiastical growth in the history of the Diocese of Cleveland. This award is conferred on this 22nd day of November 2009 upon the St. Philip Neri Family Center in recognition of its significant contribution to Catholic social services.