A Labor of Love

Maryann and Joe Csencsits

Volunteering is often a part time activity. On a free day, helping out those in need can be a fulfilling activity. For Maryann and Joe Csencsits, volunteering is a lifestyle. After retiring from their respective jobs, Maryann and Joe Csencsits have devoted their time to volunteering for Catholic Charities in various ways. They both volunteer at Father English, a community center in Paterson offering food pantries as well as computer classes. “It makes you appreciate what you have,” said Maryann Csencsits “especially with finding senior apartments, it’s a very humbling experience.”
 
Catholic Charities has multiple departments that are always looking for people to get involved. From food pantries to assisting individuals with disabilities, there are plenty of opportunities to help.  Joe Csencsits volunteered as a computer teacher for youth at Father English in Paterson, and as a driver for Catholic and Family Services. “I take people to hospitals to do dialysis, it’s very rewarding to be able to help them,” he said, “unfortunately, not enough people want to volunteer nowadays.” Joe and Maryann Csencsits say that there is always something good that happens in return for volunteering.
 
Each of the three branches of Catholic Charities have volunteer opportunities for many peoples’ interests. Ever since retirement, Maryann and Joe Csencsits have found fulfillment in volunteering with the programs Catholic Charities has to offer. Now that each of the three branches are combining, signing up to volunteer will be much more efficient. To find out more about the volunteer options at Catholic Charities visit ccpaterson.org/volunteer-1 to see. There are many opportunities that require different skills and talents. There are still many people in Passaic, Morris, and Sussex counties that need help. Giving back to these communities is extremely gratifying for those who want to help. “For us, volunteering was a way to change peoples’ lives for the better,” Maryann Csencsits explained, “we were able to do that in many ways at Catholic Charities.”