A Day Filled with Joy, Gratitude, and Great Love

The Fargo Caritas Award Luncheon on March 17, 2026 was a joyful and inspiring celebration—one filled with gratitude, faith, and the quiet power of service lived out each day. This year, we were honored to recognize Deb Black as the 2026 Fargo Caritas Award recipient, a woman whose life beautifully reflects the heart of Catholic Charities’ mission.

The Caritas Award honors individuals who live out extraordinary compassion through humble, faithful service. As those gathered at the luncheon quickly witnessed, Deb embodies that spirit in every sense. The room was filled with warmth, laughter, and deep appreciation—not only for Deb herself, but for the countless ways her life has touched others.

Faith in Action

A lifelong member of St. Therese the Little Flower Church, Deb’s faith has always been active and visible. She is a member of Christian Mothers and Catholic Daughters and served for several years as a high school catechist, helping young people grow in their faith.

In 2014, Deb felt a strong call to serve through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul after hearing a presentation following mass. Drawn by a deep love for serving those experiencing poverty, she became one of the founding members, and the first president, of the local SSVdP conference. In 2024, she was elected President of the Fargo District Council, where she continues to cherish the person‑to‑person home visits and the relationships built through collaboration with community partners.

Deb’s service also extends to her work as a board member of the Pierce County Food Pantry and through her involvement with Great Plains Food Bank CSFP distributions—quietly ensuring that neighbors have what they need.

“Do Small Things with Great Love”

One of the most powerful moments of the luncheon came through Deb’s words and the guiding philosophy she lives by: “Live the Little Way. Do small things with great love.”

It is a simple message but one that resonated deeply with everyone in the room. Deb reminded us that meaningful impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures, but from showing up, listening, and serving faithfully, one person, one moment at a time.

True to her humility, Deb shared that she was deeply grateful to be nominated for the Caritas Award by Father Frank Miller, and she views the honor not as recognition of herself, but as a reflection of the many faithful people she has been blessed to serve alongside.

A Heart That Reflects Caritas

The Fargo Caritas Award Luncheon was more than a celebration. It was a reminder of the joy found in service, the strength of community, and the beauty of living with great love in small, faithful ways.

Please join us in congratulating Deb Black and celebrating a life that so clearly reflects the heart of Caritas and the mission of Catholic Charities North Dakota.

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