PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Archdiocese of Philadelphia has announced the recent appointment of Suzanne O’Grady Laurito, MSS, as the new Director of Catholic Housing and Community Services (CHCS). Laurito’s appointment, which took effect on February 26, 2024, comes as CHCS continues to expand its footprint as a leading provider of senior living services in the Philadelphia region.
Laurito, a seasoned social services professional with over 25 years of service within the Archdiocese, succeeds Heather Huot, MSW, LSW. Huot had led CHCS since 2020 and was recently appointed as Secretary for Catholic Human Services by Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez in December 2023.
Under Huot’s leadership, CHCS has become a vital resource for seniors and their loved ones, offering a range of services that includes senior housing, senior centers, parish-based eldercare programs, an elder care helpline, and senior clubs.
Huot expressed confidence in Laurito’s ability to lead CHCS, noting her steadfast leadership and creative vision. “Mrs. Laurito brings the steadfast leadership and creative vision to further this vital mission of Catholic Human Services,” said Huot. “I am confident that this important work will grow to meet the changing needs of our elders under her leadership.”
In response to her appointment, Laurito expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the older adults in the Archdiocese, stating, “The charitable works of mercy undertaken by our Church resonate deeply with me. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead the dedicated and skilled staff of Catholic Housing and Community Services, as we support older adults aging with dignity and grace.”
Laurito brings to the role a wealth of experience in social services. She previously held several positions within CHCS, including Senior Project Manager for the Office for Community Development and Assistant Director for CHCS. She also served in posts with Catholic Social Services, including Program Director for Mercy Hospice and McAuley House and Administrator for foster care and child welfare cases.
In addition to her work with the Archdiocese, Laurito managed the Archdiocesan Catholic Campaign for Human Development, an initiative through the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. She also served as the Grants and Events Manager for Face to Face, a non-profit organization that provides a variety of services to low-income individuals and families.
Laurito’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for CHCS as it seeks to respond to the evolving needs of the aging population in the Greater Philadelphia region. Her leadership will be instrumental in guiding the organization’s efforts to provide a continuum of senior care services in senior centers and parishes located throughout the five-county metropolitan region.
With a Master of Social Services Degree in Advocacy, Planning, and Program Development from Bryn Mawr College and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Philosophy and Speech Communications from Boston College, Laurito is well-equipped to lead CHCS into its next chapter.
Residents of the Greater Philadelphia region can look forward to continued growth and service expansion under Laurito’s leadership. As the new Director of CHCS, she brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to the mission of the Archdiocese, and a clear vision for supporting older adults as they age with dignity and grace.
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