Niemiec named Interim Director of Catholic Charities

Dr. Paul A. Niemiec will succeed Msgr. Raymond E. Riffle as Managing Director of Catholic Charities on an interim basis. Niemiec was previously Director of Counseling Services.

Catholic Charities serves as the primary social service agency of the Diocese of Greensburg, serving people in Armstrong, Fayette, Indiana and Westmoreland counties, regardless of their faith.

“I am confident that Dr. Niemiec will serve in this position with competence and creativity as we look to securing a solid future for the agency,” Msgr. Riffle said. “The Board of Trustees has been talking about developing a strategic plan for Catholic Charities for a few years now, and given the changing nature of service provision in social service agencies across the country, this is a great time to engage in strategic planning. Following this evaluation process, and based on its results, we will then conduct a search for a new Managing Director.”

Niemiec has served the Diocese for almost 20 years. 

“I told Bishop Kulick and Msgr. Riffle that I will do whatever they need me to do,” Niemiec said. “In spite of everything that has been going on during this pandemic, Catholic Charities has continued serving the people in our portion of Southwestern Pennsylvania. My plan is to continue this work as best we can, with what we have been given, and in faithfulness to our mission.”

Niemiec noted that Catholic Charities has navigated many challenges in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency had to cancel its three major fundraisers; however, a virtual Heroes of Hope — Guardian Angel Appeal fundraiser raised $233,950, eclipsing numerous goals set throughout the campaign. The appeal honored those who gave their time and talents to support people in need during the pandemic. All funds are used for Catholic Charities COVID-19 relief efforts.