The Catholic Charities Ball 2026 “In Christ, We Are One” was a huge success on Feb. 7, 2026, at the St. Regis Longboat Key Resort on Longboat Key. The proceeds from the Ball support the programs of Catholic Charities in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
Bishop Frank J. Dewane was the guest of honor and expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of support for Catholic Charities as its many programs help families and individuals in the community, ensuring that our brothers and sisters in Christ continue to receive the help and support they need to not only survive, but thrive and to have hope in the future. Bishop Dewane stated the event fell on the 12th International Day of Prayer and Awareness Against Human Trafficking and noted how the Catholic Charities Anti-Human Trafficking Program is renowned throughout Florida for the compassionate work it does to help victims of this crime.
“We must remember, Catholic Charities strives to figure out how to help those in need where they are, because they are our neighbors, made in the image and likeness of God,” Bishop Dewane said. “That must be our guiding point. It brings me great joy to know that so many of you good people here recognize the important works Catholic Charities does each day.”
The elegant evening included silent and live auctions, as well as live music.
Catholic Charities assisted more than 350,000 people in need in 2025, providing a wide range of services throughout the 10-county Diocese of Venice. The work of the staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities provide programs that not only help in a crisis but assist in improving the daily lives of those in need is an essential act of mercy and fundamental mission of the Church.
For additional information about the good works of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice, Inc., please visit www.catholiccharitiesdov.org.
