June 5, 2025 at 8:22 a.m.

Catholic Charities opens new center in Herkimer County

Sister Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany (third from r., front row), and others celebrate the opening of a new training center run by Catholic Charities of Herkimer County. (Photo provided)

Catholic Charities of Herkimer County (CCHC) has officially opened the doors to its new training center, a vital expansion that will significantly enhance the organization’s capacity to serve the community. Located at 320 North Prospect St., in Herkimer, the new facility features two spacious training rooms, youth activity rooms and private gathering areas designed for meetings and group discussions.

CCHC offers more than 50 distinct training programs addressing a wide range of topics, including prevention, recovery, mental health, wellness, domestic violence and substance abuse.

“We are proud to open this new space, which reflects our deep commitment to serving the community. With more than 50 specialized training opportunities offered across our two training rooms, along with a dedicated youth room, drop-in center, and group meeting space, this center will serve as a hub for learning, healing and hope,” shared Maureen Petrie, executive director of Catholic Charities of Herkimer County. “We are deeply grateful to Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany and the UpMobility Foundation for helping make this vision a reality.”

Petrie added the dedicated youth room will be especially impactful. “Our youth deserve a safe and welcoming space where they can learn and grow,” Petrie said. “This center represents our commitment to empowering every member of our community, from children to adults, through education and compassionate support.”

The new center was unveiled to the public during a grand opening event on May 29. The celebration included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks from Sister Betsy Van Deusen, CSJ, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, Petrie, Amy Lindner, UpMobility Foundation interim director, and Wendy Marchese, Catholic Charities of Herkimer County board president.

Funding and support from the UpMobility Foundation and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany played a critical role in making the project a reality.

“The opening of this training center is a testament to what’s possible when community partners come together to support a shared vision,” Sister Betsy said. “With the backing of the UpMobility Foundation and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany, Catholic Charities of Herkimer County is now better equipped to serve, educate and uplift. It’s more than just a building — it’s a symbol of hope, progress and unwavering support for those who need it most.”

For more information, to see photos of the new center, and to view the complete list of available training programs, visit ccherkimercounty.org/training-center.