Donors Like You: Deacon Bob and Dale Howe

Giving back to support the local community is something Deacon Bob Howe and his wife, Dale care deeply about. As ongoing donors to Catholic Charities, they see firsthand the impact their generosity has on neighbors in need right here at home.

After Bob and Dale were married, they made it a priority to be generous—to give back not only because they believe in its importance, but also to set an example for their children. They value keeping their giving close to home to uplift those who are struggling locally.

“Looking around and seeing that the needs are so great right here in our community, that’s why we choose to stay local in our giving,” said Bob. “I think a lot more people than we realize are struggling today.”

Their connection to Catholic Charities goes back decades. Dale first got involved in the 1970s, volunteering her time to support Southeast Asian refugees arriving in Iowa. Over the years, the couple learned more about Catholic Charities’ mission through the late Deacon Chris Rohwer, a former Catholic Charities Food Pantry Program Manager.

“We would talk with Chris about how he was doing and about his client base, that’s what really got us started donating to Catholic Charities,” said Bob.

Today, Bob and Dale support both the Catholic Charities Food Pantry and the Catholic Charities Emergency Family Shelter. They recall being especially impressed by the shelter’s efforts to keep families who are experiencing homelessness together.

Each month, they donate gift cards to both programs, with Dale personally delivering them. These gift cards are used to purchase essentials like personal care items, food, baby supplies, and household items. This act of generosity not only uplifts clients but also supports Catholic Charities staff in the work they do.

“I think this is an important thing for us to do,” said Dale. “It makes me feel like I am making a difference.”

“We give because that’s what we want to do,” said Bob. “I’ve been a Deacon for 48 years and we see our generosity—our outreach as a deacon couple—as a way of responding to the Gospel message.”

Bob and Dale are pleased to support the work of Catholic Charities, and they know their gifts have a direct and meaningful impact. Their ongoing generosity helps provide help and hope to individuals and families right here in our community.

“Bob and Dale’s ongoing generosity is more than a donation — it’s a monthly reminder that compassion still leads the way,” said Catholic Charities Shelter and Housing Program Manager, Micah Julius. “I thank them for standing with us, month after month, and bringing dignity and hope to those who need it most.”

“Whenever Dale brings the gift card to the pantry, she is such a joy to see,” said Deb Kesling, Catholic Charities Food Pantry Program Manager. “We appreciate their donation to the program.”

The Howes see a need and are pleased to be able to help fill it. When an essential appliance suddenly stopped working at the Emergency Family Shelter, the Howes didn’t hesitate to quickly answer the call so a replacement could be purchased. Seeing their gift put to work quickly and effectively is a very rewarding experience. Bob and Dale encourage others to get involved with Catholic Charities in whatever way they can. They hope anyone unsure about giving back has the faith to take the next step.

For more information on how you can get involved and support the mission at Catholic Charities, contact Director of Development and Marketing, Bobbi Jo Smith at 515-237-5064 or bsmith@catholiccharitiesdm.org.