The week of April 18th is National Volunteer Week. Volunteer Week is an opportunity for nonprofit and service organizations to recognize volunteers for their selfless contributions and inspire new volunteers to get involved.
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson is one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the state of New Jersey, providing help and creating hope for thousands of people in need each day.
We have over 200 dedicated volunteers who support our ministry. In 2021, these volunteers provided over 43,000 hours of service.
“Our volunteers are the lifeblood of what we do. Volunteers help stock our food pantries, provide companionship for senior citizens, give back to our veterans, help those in recovery, are friends to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and do so much more,” said Scott Milliken, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson CEO.
Catholic Charities within the Diocese of Paterson is a member agency of Catholic Charities USA. Catholic Charities agencies throughout the United States bring together a network of over 30,000 volunteers of all ages, backgrounds and religious beliefs.
Annually, Catholic Charities USA recognizes a Volunteer of the Year. The CCUSA Volunteer of the Year Award, given annually since 1998, is granted to an individual who embodies the mission of CCUSA to provide critical services to those in need, advocate for justice in social structures and call the entire Church and other people of good will to do the same.
Peyton Triano, of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson is one of 6 finalists chosen by Catholic Charities USA! Watch her nomination video below:
Peyton Triano is a true "Wonderkid," wise beyond her years and giving back to Catholic Charities since she was just 11 years old!
Peyton took up baking as a hobby right before the COVID-19 pandemic. Her family noticed that she was incredibly gifted and they started posting pictures of her creations on social media.
With bakeries and supermarkets closed or having limited service, friends and neighbors started asking if Peyton could make something for them. She was happy to do so and became incredibly busy incredibly fast! She started her own business: Eat Sweet. Her business was soon booming, but she wanted something more. She kept telling her family members and friends that she wanted to do something “good” with the funds she earned.
One night, during the height of the pandemic, she saw Catholic Charities, Diocese of Paterson, Fr. English Food Pantry on a regional broadcast. She noted the really long lines. Prior to COVID-19 this pantry fed 5,000 – 7,000 people each month. Since the start of COVID-19, they have served over 20,000 each month.
She was motivated and driven to support Catholic Charities. With money she earned, she purchased bags of kid friendly foods to donate to the Father English Food Pantry and Early Learning Programs. She later created her own charitable foundation: Compassionate Kids NJ.
She earned money, purchased food, and handed the food out at the food pantry. In addition, she has hosted large-scale fundraisers to raise more money to buy food with. To date she has raised over $25,000 in fundraisers and earned close to $20,000 from her own business! Over the past 2 years, Peyton has helped feed over 30,000 children, women, and men!
Peyton is still only 13 years old, yet is an entrepreneur, advocate for the poor, and role model for children and adults of all ages! Everything she has done has been completely self-motivated and directed. She is an incredible role model and leader!
“Peyton is an incredible human being. She has inspired others to give through her kindness. COVID-19 has brought us so many challenges, but we have been able to persevere through thanks to beautiful people like Peyton. We are so proud of her on this well-deserved National recognition,” said Carlos Roldan, Catholic Charities Food Pantry Director.
If you are interested in volunteering please email [email protected].