FAIRFIELD—Anne O. McCrory and Charles “Jerry” Hemenway, both of Fairfield, will be recognized for Leadership and Volunteer Service at Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs’ Annual “Joy & Gratitude” Dinner. The signature fundraiser will be held at the McClinch Family Center at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Trumbull on Sunday, October 2, from 5 to 9 pm.
“In their different roles, both Anne and Jerry have been there for us as advisors and advocates, especially as we have grown,” said Helen Burland, the Center’s Executive Director. “We’re so glad to have this opportunity to celebrate their service.”
The awards are given each year. McCrory will receive the Leadership Award. As Chief Legal and Real Estate Officer for the Diocese, Anne has played a significant role for Saint Catherine Center as a key resource and advisor in everything from the Center’s lease to its expansion plans. “Anne is our go-to person in the Diocese,” said Helen Burland, Executive Director. “While her extensive legal and management experience have helped us navigate many scenarios, most valued is her commitment to our mission.”
“I’ve always been extremely proud to represent the Center and humbled by their work and unwavering dedication to the mission of the families they serve,” McCrory said.
Hemenway will be recognized for his Volunteer Service. As a pediatrician in Fairfield for the past 48 years, his medical background was helpful as the Center addressed the complexity of providing direct service during the pandemic. Through his practice he has acted as an advocate for the Center, referring patients when appropriate. As a Board member for the past 22 years, Hemenway has witnessed Saint Catherine Academy’s move from the Catholic Center to Fairfield in 2007, its evolution into Saint Catherine Center, and is now looking forward to the Center’s expansion over the next year.
“This has been one of the best chapters in my life,” Hemenway said. “I have enjoyed it tremendously. Seeing the school grow, the students thrive, the dedication of the staff, Helen’s leadership, the enthusiasm of the Catholic community in the Diocese, and the gratitude of the parents has made it all more than worthwhile.”
Both McCrory and Hemenway are parishioners at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Fairfield.
To register to attend the “Joy and Gratitude” Dinner on October 2, visit www.bidpal.net/sccdinner22, or contact Laura Grozier at 203.540.5381.
Saint Catherine Center for Special Needs includes Saint Catherine Academy, a state-approved, private special education school in Fairfield, Conn., serving students ages 5-22 of all faiths who are impacted with autism, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. It also includes an Adult Services Program, approved by the Department of Developmental Services, which offers opportunities for adults with disabilities to learn new skills and participate in vocational and community-based activities. The Center also serves as a resource for faith formation and inclusion for parishes throughout the Diocese of Bridgeport. For more information, visit the website at StCatherineCenter.org, call 203.540.5381, or email info@stcatherinecenter.org.
