Updates from Judy K. Orr, Executive Director

Soon I will wrap up my time with Catholic Charities, as I begin my retirement. I am deeply grateful for the people and community that have made it possible to expand and elevate the work of this agency. Over the past seven years, I have witnessed both extraordinary challenges and extraordinary perseverance to meet those challenges. This past year, in particular, tested us in ways we could not have anticipated, yet in those moments, the strength of this organization and the generosity of the Nashville community enabled us to not only prevail but thrive.

Catholic Charities’ mission has always been about walking alongside our neighbors in their most difficult moments and helping them find stability, dignity, and hope for the future. Across our seven Family Resource Centers and our hot meal Loaves and Fishes program, that mission comes alive every day because of the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters.

“Following Christ’s example, we recognize the dignity of all people and serve our neighbors,” are the words we live by. Thank you to everyone, with whom I have had the privilege of working alongside, to live out that mission. I look forward to watching the growing impact of your great work. The future of the agency is bright!

Recently I shared reflections on the past year with Ron Fleitz of Nashville Catholic Radio. I would love for you to give it a listen:

Thank you for your continuing support of Catholic Charities and for helping us bring hope to those who need it most.

Renewing Hope, New Beginnings

When “Mary S.” first connected with our Catholic Charities Family Resource Center at C. E. McGruder, she and her child were facing significant instability. A survivor of domestic violence, Mary was experiencing homelessness and moving from place to place, while trying to find a path forward. Our Housing Stability Program case manager helped her set goals, walked alongside her, as she took steps toward a safer, more stable future.

Over time, with trust built through consistent support and encouragement, Mary made meaningful progress. We connected her with partner organizations to explore employment opportunities, and she ultimately secured a job, and developed the resolve to move away from an unsafe environment. Today, she and her daughter have a more stable and peaceful place to rebuild their lives.

Mary continues to work toward long-term self-reliance and has renewed hope for her new beginning. Stories like hers are made possible through the generosity of our community. Financial donations ensure that our Family Resource Centers, like the one at C. E. McGruder, can continue to provide critical support and offer love, hope, and healing for a brighter future.

Collaborating with the Cabrini Connection

Law, Mercy, and the Migrant: A Catholic Conversation hosted by Christ the King Catholic Church on March 19, 2026, centered on the issue of immigration in Nashville and the nation.

Cabrini Connection is an immigration ministry of Christ the King Catholic Church that brings together parishioners, volunteers, and community partners to support immigrant neighbors with compassion and care. Rooted in Catholic teaching and inspired by St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the ministry works in close collaboration with organizations like Catholic Charities to provide meaningful opportunities for service, accompaniment, and direct assistance, even in the face of funding reductions for immigration and refugee programs across the country.

Through these partnerships, Cabrini Connection helps support and serve individuals and families across Middle Tennessee. We are proud to partner with this ministry, which reflects the power of working together to uphold the dignity of every person.

Thank you for being a partner in bringing love, hope, and healing to our Middle Tennessee neighbors, during my time with Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville. It has been a true blessing.

May God’s peace be with you always!

Our Mission:

Following Christ's example, we recognize the

dignity of all people and serve our neighbors. 

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Nashville

2806 McGavock Pike | Nashville, TN 37214

(615) 352-3087 | www.cctenn.org