For Immediate Release

Contact: Patricia Cole

703-236-6218
pcole@catholiccharitiesusa.org

CCUSA National Office Receives LEED Gold Certification
Commitment to sustainable building practices and reduction of environmental impact recognized by national body

Alexandria, Virginia (September 25, 2014) Catholic Charities USA, one of the nations largest
networks of faith-based social service providers, has been recognized by the U.S. Green Building
Council for building a national office that demonstrates the organizations commitment to care for
creation and promote a sustainable future for all.

Catholic Charities USA opened the William R. Fry Center, located in Alexandria, Virginia, in 2012,
and recently received LEED Gold certification by the national council for its showcase example of
sustainable design andleadership in transforming the building industry.

In securing a home for our organization, it was important not only to find a building that would
serve as a home, but one that could be an example of faithful stewardship of Gods creation, said
Fr. Larry Snyder, president of Catholic Charities USA. Through environmentally-sensitive
techniques and being mindful of our long-term impact, we can do our part to safeguard a healthy
climate for all of Gods children, especially those living on the margins of society.

The building was constructed with a number of environmentally-friendly features, including low-
water use fixtures and energy-efficient lighting, heating, and air conditioning. In addition, the
construction of the building was consciously driven toward sustainability, with practices such as
salvaging and recycling 85 percent of construction waste. The building is furnished with reused
furniture and promotes alternatives to single-driver commuting through public transportation
access, bicycle racks, and shower facilities for those who chose to walk or bike to work.

This award is an affirmation of our commitment to a better and more sustainable future, said Fr.
Snyder. We will continue to find ways to be good stewards of our environment as we carry on our
work to end poverty in America. This building will serve as our organizations home for the
foreseeable future, and its a home that we can be proud of.

About Catholic Charities USA
Catholic Charities USA (CCUSA) is leading a national movement to end poverty in America. In communities across the
country, Catholic Charities member agencies are helping individuals and families in poverty achieve their full potential.
Together we are dedicated to creating a life of opportunity and self-sufficiency for each of the 45 million of our brothers
and sisters who live in poverty. CCUSA was founded in 1910 on the campus of Catholic University of America in
Washington, D.C. as the National Conference of Catholic Charities. For more than 100 years, CCUSA has guided and
supported the vast network of Catholic Charities agencies nationwide in a common mission to serve, advocate, and
convene. For additional information, please visit www.catholiccharitiesusa.org.
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