By Karmen Lemke | Executive Director
This year’s featured guest was Father Leo Patalinghug, founder of Plating Grace, who shared an inspiring message about the importance of gathering around the family table and ensuring there is “a seat at the table for everyone.” Known for blending faith, family, and food into a ministry that strengthens relationships and deepens spiritual life, Fr. Leo entertained guests while preparing a dessert live on stage.
The evening also featured a special performance by several of the Diocese’s Filipino priests, whose talents brought energy, joy, and inspiration to the event. Many of these priests have been assisted through Catholic Charities’ Immigration Legal Services, making their participation especially meaningful. Performing karaoke-style favorites as the “Filipino Mafia” were Fathers Hanz Borbor, Rex Palaya, Vicente “Chito” Llagas, Demosthenes Olaso, Nonito Barra, Rommel Dacoco, Tony De Los Santos, and Santiago “Santy” Turiano. By the end of the evening, guests were singing and dancing along.
Another highlight of the night was the presentation of the Ruth Bruha-Mettner Award to Mary Braband. The award recognizes an individual who exemplifies the mission and values of Catholic Charities through service and compassion. Mary has generously volunteered in many areas of Catholic Charities’ ministry, and the recognition came as a heartfelt surprise.
For the past 12 years, Inspired to Act has brought together community members, supporters, volunteers, and sponsors to strengthen the mission of Catholic Charities. Funds raised from this year’s event will remain in Northeast Wisconsin and help provide critical services including school-based mental health counseling in underserved, rural Catholic schools, employment and English-language tutoring assistance for refugee families, diapers and clothing for families welcoming a new baby, financial health counseling for couples, and many other life-changing programs.
Catholic Charities continues to seek innovative ways to serve people in need throughout the 16 counties of the Diocese of Green Bay. In 2026, the organization surpassed a major milestone by serving more than 10,000 individuals through its impactful programs and services.
Catholic Charities extends heartfelt gratitude to all sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests who helped make this year’s Inspired to Act event such a success.
2026 Sponsors - Thank you to all our Inspired to Act sponsors – please take a moment to recognize their role in supporting our work!
Event Photo Gallery - Check out photos from this year’s event, capturing the fun and inspiration of the evening.
Support the Mission - If you were unable to attend but still wish to support Catholic Charities, please consider making a donation, dropping off items from our wish list, or volunteering your time with one of our programs.