Transformative Storytelling Exhibit by Catholic Charities USA
Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) has announced an exciting initiative to launch a nationwide storytelling exhibit called People of Hope: Faith-Filled Stories of Neighbors Helping Neighbors scheduled for 2026. This major project is made possible through a generous grant of nearly $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. as part of their National Storytelling Initiative focused on Christian faith and life.
The Heart of the Exhibit
At the exhibit's core is a unique and immersive experience that will travel across the country for two and a half years. This experience will showcase heartfelt stories of service, designed to highlight the power of volunteering, the deep connections formed in moments of vulnerability, and the personal transformations that result from living out faith in action. The exhibit will use a specially retrofitted trailer to bring these stories to life, featuring professionally produced first-person accounts from volunteers and staff representing Catholic Charities agencies nationwide.
Inviting Participation and Engagement
Part of the exhibit's aim is to engage visitors actively, encouraging them to share their personal stories of service and inspiration. Attendees will have the opportunity to record their narratives, ensuring a rich tapestry of experiences that reflects the diverse ways in which people can make a difference. Complementing the traveling exhibit will be a national advertising campaign, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of service and community engagement.
Gratitude and Inspiration from Leadership
CCUSA's President and CEO, Kerry Alys Robinson, expressed profound gratitude to Lilly Endowment for their support, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the transformative power of helping those in need. Robinson noted that through this exhibit, CCUSA hopes to inspire individuals across the nation to seek opportunities to serve their communities with love and compassion, echoing the call to respond with Christ-like empathy to human suffering and injustice.
Insights from Recent Surveys
A recent survey conducted by Campos, a market research firm, shed light on volunteerism trends. Despite only a small percentage of respondents actively volunteering at local organizations, a significant 67 percent indicated they were inclined to engage in volunteer work. Respondents highlighted their motivations for volunteering, including the desire to help others, express empathy, and foster a stronger sense of community connection.
Fostering a Spirit of Generosity
Robinson reiterates the idea that generosity is inherent to humanity, stating that volunteering is a powerful way to share our most valuable resources—our time and attention. During her travels to various Catholic Charities agencies, she consistently hears from volunteers that their experiences enrich their own lives, often revealing that they are the true beneficiaries of the connections formed through service.
Community Impact through CCUSA
Through People of Hope, CCUSA aims to not only illuminate the profound effects of Christian service on individuals and communities but also to spotlight the numerous ways to engage in service across the nation through Catholic Charities and other like-minded organizations. The Catholic Charities network, consisting of 168 independent agencies, impacted over 16 million people last year, largely thanks to an army of more than 200,000 dedicated volunteers.
Development Timeline for People of Hope
As part of their preparation for the People of Hope exhibit, CCUSA recently shared the project details with the diocesan directors at their annual Spring Gathering. Selected service stories will be professionally recorded this summer at CCUSA’s headquarters, with the exhibit debuting in the spring of 2026. This timeline reflects CCUSA's commitment to delivering a thoughtful, engaging, and impactful experience to communities nationwide.
About Lilly Endowment
Lilly Endowment Inc. is a private foundation based in Indianapolis, established in 1937. It supports a wide range of causes related to community development, education, and religion. While maintaining a strong commitment to its local roots, the Endowment also funds initiatives nationwide with the goal of enhancing the vitality of congregations and enriching the lives of Christians across various demographics.
About CCUSA
Founded in 1910, CCUSA is a national membership organization that advocates for and supports the efforts of 168 Catholic Charities agencies. Each year, these agencies provide vital assistance to over 16 million vulnerable individuals, regardless of their background or belief system. Through services such as disaster relief and affordable housing, CCUSA embodies the spirit of compassion and community service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the aim of the People of Hope exhibit?
The exhibit aims to showcase the impact of Christian service and encourage more individuals to participate in volunteerism across the country.
How is the People of Hope exhibited?
The exhibit will be an immersive experience that travels in a retrofitted trailer, sharing stories from volunteers and staff of Catholic Charities.
When is the anticipated launch of the exhibit?
The People of Hope exhibit is expected to launch in the spring of 2026.
What support is helping fund this initiative?
The exhibit is made possible by a nearly $5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.
How can individuals participate in the exhibit?
Visitors will be invited to share their own inspiring stories of service at the exhibit, helping to expand the narrative of hope and community engagement.
