Top photo caption: Shown is a wide view of the traveling museum. Courtesy photo
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton is honored to host People of Hope: Faith-Filled Stories of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, a traveling museum celebrating the transformative impact of Christian service. The exhibit will be at St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, 61 Georgia Rd., Freehold, June 22 and 23.
“We are truly honored to bring this inspiring museum to our Diocese,” said executive director Marlene Laó-Collins. “It’s hard to put into words just how proud we are that two members of our team are featured in the exhibit.”
Housed in a 53-foot tractor trailer, People of Hope is an immersive exhibit featuring 42 stories from Catholic Charities staff and volunteers nationwide, each reflecting meaningful encounters with those they serve. Launched in March, the museum will tour the country for two and a half years, supported by a nearly $5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its National Storytelling Initiative on Christian Faith and Life.
Among those featured is Arnold Valentin, director of Community Services, who shares the story of a young mother from Monrovia, Liberia. While in the United States receiving cancer treatment, she also volunteers at the agency’s Clothing Closet, where community members can access donated clothing free of charge. The story demonstrates remarkable resilience and generosity in the face of hardship.
Also featured is Mary Pettrow, director of Children and Family Services. Early in her career as a case manager at the agency’s Domestic Violence Safe House, she supported families seeking refuge. She now reflects on a powerful full-circle moment, meeting a man she had once helped as a child when his family fled to safety.
The museum also features an interactive poverty simulator, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families in New Jersey. In addition, guests can listen to recorded excerpts from books addressing poverty, social isolation, bridge-building and community action. A dedicated recording studio invites visitors to share their own stories of hope and service.
Admission is free and open to the public from 10 am to 4 pm. Private and group tours are also available. To schedule a tour, contact Tracy Gillespie at tgillespie@cctrenton.org.
If you or someone you know need services, please call 800-360-7711. To learn more about how Catholic Charities supports the community, visit www.catholiccharitiestrenton.org.
