Florence Dogan’s father instilled in her at an early age an understanding of the importance of helping others. A Baltimore resident since childhood, she didn’t allow her job with the Social Security Administration to prevent her from volunteering many hours. She became involved with the Ladies of Charity at the Archdiocese of Baltimore. From making lunch packs for the homeless to stuffing envelopes, she did whatever was most needed. Over time, she became vice president of the National Ladies of Charity.

In 1978, Florence began the first of three terms as a member of Catholic Charities’ Board of Trustees. She traveled to national conferences with Catholic Charities’ executive director Hal Smith to gather information about what other states were doing. During her tenure, she helped open several new programs such as Sarah’s House, Catholic Charities’ supportive housing program for homeless families in Anne Arundel County. Her most “beautiful memory” of Catholic Charities, however, results from the passing of her beloved husband in 1987. Arriving home from the hospital after his death, she found Hal and Catholic Charities’ administrator Dee White waiting for her at her door. “I feel so close to them. That was such a booster,” she says fondly.

Now in her late 90s, Florence stills volunteers! “I’ve always been aware of those less fortunate than I am,” says Florence. “I’ve always had the sense that I should be doing something to help. I’m no angel, just a person who feels a duty towards others. As a Christian, you do your part and don’t worry about whether the other person deserves it.” With her commitment to serving others, it came naturally to Florence to make a provision for those in need once she’s no longer able to volunteer. She has included Catholic Charities in her will; she will help others long after she has passed on. “You do your best to help others. I don’t worry about being perfect.”

Planned Giving