(KNSI) – Two women who have dedicated decades to serving Central Minnesota’s most vulnerable residents were recognized by Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud at its annual Good Samaritan Awards dinner.
Jane Marrin and Janelle Kendall received the organization’s highest honor for embodying the spirit of the biblical Good Samaritan through their volunteer work, advocacy, and financial support of Catholic Charities’ mission.
The Good Samaritan Awards recognize individuals who demonstrate community leadership while dedicating their time, talent and resources to helping those less fortunate without expectation of return.
Marrin’s connection to Catholic Charities began on a personal level when she and her late husband James adopted their first two children through the organization’s adoption services. That experience sparked a relationship that has spanned decades. She went on to serve as Director of Social Concerns and as a member of the Board of Directors, while remaining active as a donor and community advocate.
Marrin has been a consistent presence at the organization’s signature fundraising events, including the annual Mardi Gras celebration, and continues to champion social justice initiatives through her support of Catholic Charities’ Social Concerns program.
Kendall has supported Catholic Charities for more than three decades, with she and her husband John sponsoring the organization’s Mardi Gras event since 2003. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when events moved online, Kendall stepped up as master of ceremonies and helped lead fundraising efforts.
Her musical talents have also benefited the cause. In 2022 and 2023, Kendall’s band The Perfect Storm hosted benefit concerts for Catholic Charities, with Kendall personally covering all performance costs.
As Stearns County Attorney, Kendall brings her professional expertise to bear on issues that directly impact Catholic Charities’ clients. She leads monthly Domestic Violence Partnership meetings that coordinate services for victims and perpetrators, supporting the organization’s Behavioral Health Clinic. She also serves on the Central Minnesota Human Trafficking Multi-Disciplinary Team, helping connect clients to wraparound services.
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