Photo courtesy of Catholic Charities
Editor’s Note: Catholic Charities hosted their annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser on September 20 where the community came together to cook, eat and celebrate the year of service. At the event each year, they nominate an outstanding community member for their ‘Charity in Action Award.’ This year, Street Moms Susan Brossman and Lynn Kettler were selected.
For those who might have missed the spaghetti dinner and are seeking opportunities to contribute to the work Catholic Charities is doing to support our unhoused neighbors, visit their website or drop by the Neighborhood Center to make a donation.
Acts of kindness come in many forms. Whether it’s delivering clothing, water, shoes, and other necessities or helping connect individuals to services and resources, Susan Brossman and Lynn Kettler—better known as Street Moms—are always willing to lend a hand. They remind us that no act of kindness is ever too big or too small when it comes to helping someone in need.
Their volunteer work throughout the community and at Catholic Charities Neighborhood Center is both meaningful and impactful. The lives they touch, the relationships they build, and the hope they inspire all create a ripple effect that extends far beyond any single act of service.
What is most touching is not simply what they do. It is how they make people feel.
They mother those who need mothering.
They worry about people who may not have anyone else to worry about them.
They offer encouragement when it is needed most.
They remind people, “You are not invisible. You are seen.”
And they bring joy to the work they do. Whether sharing a laugh, offering a kind word, or simply showing up with a warm smile, they have a way of making people feel comfortable, valued, and cared for.
Susan and Lynn demonstrate that two dedicated individuals can create extraordinary change. Their compassion, commitment, and tireless service make them incredibly deserving of this year’s Charity In Action Award. This honor recognizes individuals and organizations whose compassion, partnership, and commitment to service make a real and lasting difference for individuals and families across our communities.
Susan and Lynn truly are Street Moms, not just to people experiencing homelessness, but to anyone who needs a mom.
We hope they know how many lives are better because they chose to show up, care deeply, and make a difference. Their love for this community shines through everything they do, and we are grateful for the countless ways they make our community stronger, kinder, and more connected.