CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO In 1917, when the story of Catholic Charities begins, Chicago was a heavily industrial city filled with a gritty, grimy energy, an unbridled sense of optimism, and an underpinning of despirately poor men, women, and children who were falling through the cracks of a most rudimentary network of social services. Into this difficult and heart-wrenching situation stepped George William Mundelein, newly installed Archbishop of Chicago, a whirlwind of energy, ideas, and vision. Among the archbishop's proudest and brightest accomplishments is Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. The agency, which a century after its founding employs nearly three thousand professional staff members working in more than 150 programs, is a trendsetter and leader in providing social services to the poor. Universally seen as the face of the Catholic Church in action, Catholic Charities serves about one million people in Illinois's Cook and Lake Counties each year. The work of Catholic Charities is a legacy of commitment by talented and dedicated individuals, assisted by devoted and motivated volunteers and donors. This is their impressive story.