ST. CLARE AWARD RECIPIENT: Danielle Morone

Danielle Morone served on the Franciscan Works Board of Directors from 2019 to 2024. In 2022, she formed one-third of the Interim Executive Committee, guiding Franciscan Works throughout a year in which the organization had no Executive Director. We are deeply grateful for her hard work and commitment to Franciscan Works and Liberia Mission. She remains a committed supporter and sponsor. St. Clare once said, “Let the love you have in your hearts be shown outwardly in your deeds.” Danielle truly lives out these words in her life.

ST. ANTHONY AWARD RECIPIENT:  Doreen and Thomas Gilliam

The Gilliams have been dedicated sponsors for many years. Because of their generosity, youth on Liberia Mission have been given the opportunity to receive a Catholic education, a loving home, nutritious meals, medical care, and support as they grow. St. Anthony of Padua said: “Actions speak louder than words; let your words teach and your actions speak.” The Gilliams have selflessly given of their resources to support Liberia Mission and bring hope to the poorest of the poor. 

ST. MAXIMILIAN KOLBE AWARD RECIPIENT: Joseph Kulah

Mr. Joseph Kulah is the Director of Liberia Mission. Mr. Kulah has been working at Liberia Mission since 2012, when he was hired as a math teacher at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic School. He then served six years as the principal of Anthony’s before becoming Assistant Director of Liberia Mission. In 2024, he was promoted to Director of Liberia Mission. He is a beloved member of the community, a convert to Catholicism, and is recognized by former students everywhere he goes. We are extremely grateful for all that Mr. Kulah does for the Mission. St. Maximilian Koble said, “Do not forget that holiness consists not in extraordinary actions, but in performing your duties towards God, yourself, and others well.” Mr. Kulah embodies these words as he leads and guides the Mission.

ST. THERESE AWARD RECIPIENT: Mary Lou McCall

Mary Lou McCall is a long-time supporter of Franciscan Works and Liberia Mission. As a Catholic journalist, she traveled widely to some of the world’s poorest countries, reporting on faith during times of struggle and giving voice to those living in poverty. In later years, she also journeyed to Liberia, where she became aware of the country’s unique struggles. She is a strong advocate for those in her own community as well, especially in the areas of recovery and addiction. For countless years, she has generously given of her resources to fund capital projects and contribute to operational support of Liberia Mission. Thanks to her support, the Mission has grown and thrived. Like St. Therese, Mary Lou inspires others by her kindness, compassion, and generosity as she radiates Christ’s love to others.

ST. FRANCIS AWARD RECIPIENT: Fr. Don Halpin

Fr. Don Halpin, OFM Conventual, has been a Franciscan priest for over fifty years. He served on the Franciscan Works Board of Directors from 2009-2018, guiding our organization in the Franciscan charism as a spiritual advisor. He has traveled to Liberia Mission numerous times, where he held retreats for students at the Mission and the surrounding community. Fr. Don continues to support the youth of Liberia as a sponsor. We thank Fr. Don for his many years of guidance, service, and support to everyone at Franciscan Works and Liberia Mission. In the prayer of St. Francis of Assisi, we pray: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” Fr. Don exemplifies this prayer and the teachings of St. Francis.