Introduction:

We are Catholic Charities of the Diocese of San Diego, California, a ministry of the church caring for the poor and the vulnerable. Our ministry is based on the person of Jesus, who "came not to be served, but to serve." We believe in the dignity of the human person, and are committed to the Judeo-Christian vision of justice and peace. Our Catholic identity is manifest in the beliefs and actions stated below:

Beliefs:

• We believe that we are called to promote Justice for the people we serve, by working to transform the social order.

• We believe that we are called to Witness our faith through cultures and traditions that bring us together as one people with a common purpose of service to others in need.

• We believe that we are called by our Mission to enhance the quality of life for families and individuals.

• We believe that our values motivate us to Respect differences and accept people realizing we are all made in the image and likeness of God.

• We believe that our agency creates opportunities for the Empowerment of individuals, families, and communities.

• We believe in Accountability for decisions we make and actions we take.

• We believe that by working within the structure and mission of the agency and Catholic Social Teaching we are able to address effectively people's spiritual, physical and emotional needs.

• We believe in Collaboration with other service providers, faith communities, and government to build and strengthen relationships with a vision toward improving service delivery in our communities.

We carry out our beliefs in various ways within the Departments of Catholic Charities, Diocese of San Diego. The following are illustrations of particular ways that we incorporate our beliefs into actions.

Actions:

• We advocate for and support our clients in overcoming barriers to equal access to the necessities and opportunities available in the community. (Justice)

• We strive to promote a workplace culture that supports a calling to service among our leadership and staff as they carry out their daily responsibilities. (Witness)

• Our services are directed by our Mission to enhance lives, our vision and our strategic goals.

• We honor the dignity of the people we serve through encouragement and support. (Respect)

• We provide opportunities for clients to make choices, create partnerships and take control of their lives. (Empowerment—Opens in a new window.)

• We are accountable to our stakeholders and the community to ensure that resources and services are appropriately allocated and directed. (Accountability)

• We reach out and respond to greater community needs by reflecting Catholic Social Teaching. (Church)

• We are pro active in developing effective relationships with community organizations, faith communities and governments to provide a coordinated array of services. (Collaboration)

Catholic Charities of San Diego