Our History

Catholic Charities began helping individuals and families in crisis after World War I.  Services were offered throughout Chicago and in Will, Grundy, Kankakee and DuPage counties.  When the Diocese of Joliet was officially created in 1949, Catholic Charities programs and services continued to operate under the direction of the Chicago Archdiocese.  However, in 1962, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet, was officially incorporated and licensed as a child welfare agency in the State of Illinois.  The areas served include Will, Grundy, DuPage, Kendall, Kankakee, Ford and Iroquois counties.

In the early years, Catholic Charities operated with no more than 40 staff and a budget of less than one million dollars.  Today, the agency employs over 325 persons and operates on a budget a little over 21 million dollars.

Catholic Charities is a diocesan agency and maintains close contact with the Bishop of Joliet.  Catholic Charities is also governed by a Board of Directors.

The agency has grown tremendously in over 60 years.  But the dedication of serving needy and vulnerable members of the community that was present 60 years ago is still present today and can be witnessed in any of the programs and services offered at Catholic Charities.