Marc Joseph, a case manager at Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio, utilizes his personal journey from Haiti to provide essential support to immigrant families in Springfield. His work involves not only practical assistance but also a deep understanding of the fears and challenges these families face in a new environment.
Joseph, who arrived in the United States after experiencing significant personal loss and serving in the Army, emphasizes the importance of service to others. “I joined the Army because I wanted to be part of something greater than me, and now, while I am working for Catholic Charities, I feel like I am doing something special, which is being able to serve others,” he said.
His connection to the community is profound. Joseph experienced violence in Haiti, including the 2019 murder of his wife’s brother and the assassination of his older brother in 2021. In 2023, additional family members fell victim to gang violence. These traumatic experiences have shaped his empathy and understanding of the immigrant experience.
After settling in Springfield, Joseph’s family continued to face challenges, including harassment related to their Haitian heritage. These experiences inform his work at Catholic Charities, where he connects with clients on a personal level.
Tony Stieritz, the CEO of Catholic Charities Southwestern Ohio, highlighted Joseph’s unique contributions, noting that his cultural insights and language skills enhance the organization’s ability to respond to the needs of Haitian families. “He brings the situation home for us,” Stieritz remarked.
Having joined Catholic Charities about a year ago after completing basic combat training, Joseph chose the organization specifically to help immigrant families face difficulties similar to those he has known. “Marc brings empathy and determination to his work, quickly recognizing connections between his own experiences and the stories of the people he serves,” Stieritz added.
The Catholic Charities team in Springfield includes Joseph, an immigration attorney, and other support staff, enabling them to address both legal and practical needs for families seeking assistance. The organization has seen a growing demand for emergency aid, helping with food, rent, and other necessities.
Reflecting on his interactions with families, Joseph stated, “When immigrant families tell me they are afraid, I understand that fear.” His perspective transforms the individuals he helps from mere statistics into real people with hopes and aspirations.
Stieritz noted that Joseph’s experiences cultivate an empathy that recognizes the resilience of these families. For Joseph, his story is defined not only by suffering but also by service, responsibility, and belonging. He identifies as both Haitian by heritage and American by citizenship.
Catholic Charities remains focused on compassion, emphasizing the dignity of each person they assist. Stieritz encourages community support for their work through prayer, donations, and volunteering, as they aim to help families navigate complex circumstances with care.
