PALM BEACH | Amy Acierno, who has co-chaired the annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Palm Beach in recent years, said her involvement is a way to support the local Catholic Church and the essential work that is accomplished for all who are in need.
“I have been blessed in my life, throughout my life, and I feel the need to do for as many people as I possibly can,” said Acierno, a member of Cathedral of St. Ignatius Loyola Parish who owns, with husband Joseph, Joseph’s Classic Market. “And I love my church. I love my faith. I think Catholic Charities helps all people, everyone, and that’s what I love about it. It’s not one-dimensional.”
The 16th annual Caritas Dei Bishop’s Gala is planned for 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at The Breakers in Palm Beach, with the theme of “Beyond the Palms.” Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito will serve as host of the black-tie event, during which special awards will be presented recognizing local contributions to Catholic Charities and those in need.
The 2026 award recipients are the Fanjul family, receiving the Bishop’s Charity Medal; Kathy and Paul Leone, with the Caritas Dei Award; Margaret Donnelly, Caritas Spiritus Sanctus Award; and Father Raúl Cárdenas, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Pahokee, receiving the Caritas Christi Award.
The evening also will include a silent auction, dinner and dancing. Money raised through the gala will serve a multitude of needs in the five-county diocese.
Ellen Wayne, local CEO/executive director of Catholic Charities, said, “Each year this event provides the occasion to raise awareness and critical financial support for the work of Catholic Charities here in the Diocese of Palm Beach. What a blessing it is to celebrate the dedication and contributions of others, while providing the opportunity to support our efforts to bring help and hope to those in need.”
Other dignitaries involved in the event include James Borynack, Adolfo Zaralegui, the Fanjul family, and Kathryn and Leo Vecellio, as Honorary Guardians of Hope; the Fanjuls, Crystal Guardians of Hope; Carol and Harold Baxter and John Herrick, Guardians of Hope; and Marietta Muiña McNulty, Platinum Hope Angel and host committee chairwoman emeritus.
The gala host committee includes honorary chairs Connie Frankino and Marie and Andy Unanue, and co-chairs Amy Acierno, Karmita Gusmano and Florence Metzger Berney.
Acierno said helping prepare for the gala and increasing the fundraising potential for Catholic Charities “makes me feel like a better person.” She especially enjoys demonstrating the value of philanthropy and the necessity of giving back to the community.
“As a matter of fact, over the years, I have been bringing my young adult children to the event and trying to get them involved. They’re in their early 30s and late 20s, with their wives and girlfriends, and I’m trying to bring the next generation into the space to help,” Acierno said.
Multiple gala sponsorship opportunities are available; contact Debra Tornaben at 561-360-3334 or email aatwater@ccdpb.org. For tickets and information on the annual gala and the work of Catholic Charities, visit www.ccdpb.org.
