Catholic Social Services has a new Director—and she’s keen to work with people and organisations to help make a real, positive difference in the lives of people in Wellington and beyond who need help.
Carmel McKee started her role on 10 November. Having always worked in the social service sector, she left a long career in statutory child protection services before moving to Presbyterian Support Central to lead Family Works, their social work and counselling service covering the lower North Island.
A registered social worker, Carmel says she’s committed to making a positive difference and being part of a wider system of support so individuals and their whānau can live happy, fulfilling lives.
“This role is a great opportunity for me to bring my skills into a new environment,” she says of part of the motivation for joining Catholic Social Services, adding she was raised in a Catholic family where social justice was very much at the heart of her home.
Carmel says she’s loving the role so far. Being part of a committed CSS team and receiving positive feedback from external providers has been encouraging. She adds that the success of November’s Catholic Social Services Annual Appeal, which not only saw more money donated than in 2024, but more donors overall, has also been terrific to see.
“The graciousness of our supporters has been fantastic. It’s really going to make a difference.”
There’s plenty of work to be done. Carmel says building relationships with clients, whānau, community, parishes and schools will be a sign of success, as will be getting more funding to continue to make a positive difference in people’s lives. To that end, she encourages anyone who wants to find out more about what CSS does or to be involved in the CSS mahi to get in touch.
Carmel succeeds Chris Ward as Catholic Social Services Director.
Carmel can be reached by email at c.mckee@wn.catholic.org.nz.
