Since 1945, Catholic Social Services (CSS) has been a source of compassion, dignity, and hope for those Christ calls us to serve throughout our community. Serving over 10,000 individuals annually, our mission is supported by dedicated volunteers who help seniors find connection, guide families towards a brighter future, and assist persons with disabilities find new freedom. Rooted in the belief that every person reflects the image of God, we journey together as neighbors, empowering individuals to shape their own futures with our unwavering support.
As long as there has been the Catholic Church, there has been charity. With faith as our guide, we are called to serve those in need, regardless of their faith.
We were established as the Catholic Welfare Bureau in 1945 under the leadership of the Most Reverend Bishop Michael Ready to serve women and children in Columbus.
We expanded our services and our reach with sites in Zanesville in 1948, Newark in 1949, and Portsmouth in 1957. As our programs grew, we were separately incorporated on August 4, 1966, and renamed Catholic Social Services.
While our services have changed with the needs of the community, our commitment to the highest standard of excellence, respect, trustworthiness, and compassion
in our client and community care has never wavered. Today our team of 75 staff members, hundreds of volunteers, and partners serve from 17 locations in central and southern Ohio. Our vision of hope is guided by the Most Reverend Earl K. Fernandes, supported by our Board of Directors, and led by Kelley Henderson, who serves as our President and CEO.
Motivated by faith, Catholic Social Services (CSS) helps poor and vulnerable seniors and families reach their potential.
We envision a world in which all who are in need are able to meet their potential to live with dignity, hope, and purpose.
Impact | Compassion | Courage | Excellence
Our values are guided by our faith, and we strive to live these out in everything we do.
Volunteering with Catholic Social Services is a powerful way to contribute to our mission of making a difference in the community. When you volunteer with us, you become a part of a compassionate network dedicated to empowering those in need. Whether you’re mentoring others, serving meals, connecting with our seniors, or serving in a wide variety of other crucial roles, your efforts have a profound impact on lives–both for today and in ways that will continue to echo long into the future.
Reach out to ServeAsNeighbors@colscss.org or call (614)-857-1232
LSW
PHR
MSW, LSW
M.ED
Perez Morris
Nationwide
AEP
Worthington Enterprises
Nationwide Childrens
NiSource
ABERCROMBE
Nationwide Children’s Hospital
JP Morgan Chase
Ellis Companies
Grange
United Healthcare
Mt. Carmel
Huntington
CK Construction
Bricker Graydon, LLP
Diocese of columbus
Catholic Diocese
US Bank
White Castle
Vorys
Cardinal Health
Columbus Blue Jackets
Ohio State University
In our commitment to transparency and accountability, we provide easy access to our:
Catholic Social Service has been an accredited organization through Council on Accreditation (COA) since 2010. Their standards of best practice are used to enhance our organization, programs, and services to our clients.
