Good Samaritan Awards Honor Catholic Charities' Partners and Friends

Good Samaritan Awards recipients; from left, Chuck and Pat Ernst, Pat and Tamara Huesers, Mike and Jeny Meyer.



Catholic Charities of the Diocese of St. Cloud recently presented its annual Good Samaritan Awards to Chuck and Pat Ernst, St. Cloud, and PAM’s Auto, St. Cloud, at the Good Samaritan Awards Dinner and Reception, the first awards presentation since 2019 due to the coronavirus.

Award recipients are recognized for following the example of the biblical Good Samaritan by helping those who are less fortunate without the expectation of anything in return, and for their support of Catholic Charities’ mission of serving and enhancing human dignity for people of all faiths and beliefs.

They demonstrate community leadership while dedicating their time, talent and treasure, and by making a difference in the Central Minnesota community.

“It is wonderful that we were able to gather and recognize these generous volunteers together and in person for all their support of Catholic Charities over the years,” said Steve Pareja, Catholic Charities Executive Director.

Chuck and Pat Ernst

Chuck and Pat Ernst are active supporters of Catholic Charities and in the community. Both retired math professors from St. Cloud State University, Chuck has been a dedicated volunteer for Catholic Charities Emergency Services since 1996, and has a passion for working with clients and helping people in their time of need. For many years, Pat volunteered at Whitney Senior Center for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, and was instrumental in starting the program. As members of Christ Church Newman Center, St. Cloud, they are involved with the Community Meal, which helps feed members of our community in need of food and fellowship.

“Through their time, talent, treasure and advocacy, Chuck and Pat Ernst are exemplary supporters of Catholic Charities and our many community neighbors in need,” said Kateri Mancini, Director of Catholic Charities Social Concerns. “They are faithful contributors to the mission of Catholic Charities, and their collective compassion triggers meaningful action. Chuck and Pat are well-deserving of the Good Samaritan Award.”

Watch the Ernst nomination video here.

PAM's Auto

PAM’s Auto business owners Pat and Tamara Huesers and Mike and Jeny Meyer also support Catholic Charities and the greater community. PAM’s Auto has been a sponsor of Mardi Gras, Catholic Charities annual gala and fundraiser, since 2009, and the event’s Mardi Gras Technology sponsor since 2012. Pat and Tamara, and Mike and Jeny, have been active volunteers at Mardi Gras leading up to and during the event. Tamara and Jeny have been table hosts at Catholic Charities’ annual Benefit Breakfast and Luncheon. Over the years, the Huesers and Meyers have encouraged their children to host a food drive that supports Catholic Charities Food Shelf, established a vegetable garden for residents at Catholic Charities Youth House, and helped raise funds, products and awareness for youth experiencing homelessness in the area. Tamara served on Catholic Charities Board of Directors from 2016 through 2021.

“PAM’s Auto—Pat and Tamara, and Mike and Jeny—are very supportive in the community,” said Wendy Haus, Catholic Charities Development Officer. “Not only do they support Catholic Charities, but they also support other organizations. They want to help people, and they are always willing to step up and help Catholic Charities when we are in need. They are truly deserving of this award.”

Watch the PAM’s Auto nomination video here.