July, 1, 2014 – On June 12 Catholic Charities of the East Bay (CCEB) honored Stephen A. Wilcox for a decade of remarkable CCEB volunteer leadership and support, most recently being the unpaid CEO of our agency for 9 months. Among the audience were board members, family members, several special friends of Catholic Charities including The Vicar General Father Mockel and others who spoke of Steve’s many gifts of time, talent, and treasure.
Steve was truly surprised. There were few dry eyes as the Award was announced and Steve accepted with his own heart felt words. Cecilia Tonsing, Chief Development Officer of Catholic Charities said, “How fortunate we are to have had two recent saints canonized. When the Board was looking at longer term recognitions – it was agreed that identifying St. John XXIII as the named award was a perfect opportunity. His life and work were well matched for Catholic Charities.”
Many treasured comments were made about how Steve exemplifies what it means to be a philanthropist, a volunteer, a board member, and rose to new and needed challenges such as being an unpaid staff member. In this case as a CEO while a national search was in process for the new CEO. Others spoke of how Steve has inspired a caring love for the poor, modeled Christian values and has demonstrated his deep religious faith in his daily life. (View Photos in Facebook)
This Award is designed to honor an individual whose work often reflects the characteristics and virtues of this recently proclaimed saint. The Award is given to an everyday man or woman who is called upon to perform one or more courageous acts, who symbolizes hope, and who exemplifies the spirit of Catholic Charities.
The CCEB Board of Directors can award this distinction from time to time, as the situation warrants. The first award was just made. It is hoped that it will become a wonderful new tradition for decades to come.
While the Church recognizes saints as individuals through whom we can catch a glimpse of traits Christ personified—and of what we are called to be, we must always remember that saints are also real people whom we can emulate.
Each Awardee will remind us that everyday challenges and opportunities fall into our path, and they can be embraced for the good of others. They will embody one or more traits worthy of emulation.
Candidates may be submitted by anyone at any time to the Saint John XXIII Award Committee. Approximately once a year, a committee appointed by the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities of the East Bay will review all submissions and make recommendations to the Board. The decision of the Board is final.