The milestone unification is effective January 1, 2027
NEWS RELEASE
October 29, 2026
Contact: Rachel Hrbolich, Diocesan Director, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown
330-744-8451; rhrbolich@youngstowndiocese.org
YOUNGSTOWN, OH – The Boards of Directors for Catholic Charities of Ashtabula County, Catholic Charities Regional Agency (serving Columbiana, Mahoning, and Trumbull Counties), and Catholic Charities Serving Portage and Stark Counties have voted unanimously to merge into the Diocese of Youngstown Catholic Charities Corporation (DOYCCC), effective January 1, 2027. The merged organization will be renamed “Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown.”
This unification reflects a shared commitment to strengthen Catholic Charities’ mission, enhance collaboration, and ensure the continuation of compassionate, professional services to individuals and families across the six-counties of the Youngstown Diocese.
Over the past several months, leadership from each agency has worked together to thoughtfully prepare for this transition. The unification has received the necessary canonical approval from The Most Reverend David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown, following the recommendation of the Diocesan College of Consultors, and work continues to complete all required civil legal processes.
“This transformative merger reflects our shared faith and enduring commitment to serve,” said Bishop Bonnar. “By coming together under my episcopal motto, ‘That All May Be One’ (John 17:21), we unite three Catholic Charities agencies into one stronger organization—enhancing our ability to deliver compassionate care and support across all six of our counties.”
Beginning January 1, 2027, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown, will be led by Rachel Hrbolich, President & Chief Executive Officer, along with Nancy Voitus, Senior Vice President of Programs and Services; James (Jim) Herschel, Vice President of Finance; Rick Squier, Vice President of Operations; and Jill Valentic, Vice President of Communications & Engagement.
Catholic Charities remains committed to meeting community needs. Local service sites, programs, and staff will continue to operate within their respective communities, ensuring that those who rely on Catholic Charities will continue to receive the compassionate care and support they know and trust. Crucial to this ongoing mission is the Annual Diocesan Appeal, which provides vital financial support that directly enables Catholic Charities to carry out its transformative work across all six counties.
A new Catholic Charities administrative office, located in the former St. Mary Rectory, has been established at 232 Seneca Avenue NE, Warren, OH 44481.
The strategic merger of the Catholic Charities entities serving the Diocese of Youngstown creates new opportunities for collaboration, strengthens the organization’s ability to serve those in need, helps ensure the long-term sustainability of its mission, and reflects responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to Catholic Charities to meet the needs of the community.
“Unifying our operations enables us to streamline administrative functions and reduce redundant expenses, ensuring maximum resources go directly toward our mission,” states Rachel Hrbolich, President & CEO of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown. “This new organizational structure also positions us to better engage our parishes and communities, foster professional growth to attract top talent, and more effectively demonstrate the Church’s mission to serve anyone in need, regardless of their faith.”
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Youngstown, remains deeply grateful for the ongoing partnerships and support from diocesan communities, parish networks, friends, and donors who make the ministry of Catholic Charities life-changing for individuals and families in crisis.
A reference sheet of Frequently Asked Questions has been included with this communication.
