Shamrock Shindig: How Our Community Raised Over $300,000 for Catholic Charities

Lively Celtic music filled the air at Cheyenne Mountain Resort on March 15 during the 24th annual Shamrock Shindig, a festive event that supports Catholic Charities. Guests, adorned in green, laughed and raised glasses, helping to generate over $300,000 for various pressing issues such as mental health, homelessness, and food insecurity. As the event’s leprechaun program reminded everyone, “Together. We Can All Make a Difference.”

Bishop James Golka and Andy Barton, the president and CEO of Catholic Charities, welcomed attendees. They shared the mission for the night: to transform lives through strong relationships that foster resilience and build thriving communities.

One exciting update was about the upcoming Hunt Family Housing, set to open this summer with 24 apartments dedicated to homeless families. This new project breathes life into the formerly closed Helen Hunt School, providing essential housing support and opportunities for sponsorship.

The Shamrock Shindig is known for its lively auctions, and this year was no different. Emcee Brie Groves and auctioneer Kevin Patterson led exciting bidding wars for trips to Italy and the Yucatan Peninsula, as well as a luxurious staycation at Camp Cloud. One highlight was the competition for a bottle of rare 20-year-old Pappy Van Winkle bourbon, which sparked fervor among guests.

The event also showcased a delicious menu created by executive chef James Wilson featuring traditional St. Patrick’s Day dishes like corned beef and cabbage, Irish beef stew, and decadent desserts including Irish whiskey crème brûlée cheesecake and chocolate flourless Guinness cake.

Longtime sponsors were celebrated for their dedication, including Mortgage Solutions Financial and The Gazette, who have supported the event for 21 years. Others, like RhoDESCO Printing and O’Briens Carpet One Floor & Home, have contributed for 20 years.

As the evening came to a close, excitement grew for the Shamrock Shindig’s Silver Anniversary, planned for March 14, 2026. This gathering isn’t just about fundraising; it also builds a sense of community and highlights the power of coming together for a common cause.

In recent years, events like the Shamrock Shindig have gained more visibility on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, where attendees share their experiences and the impact of their contributions. This trend reflects a growing awareness of local charitable efforts and fosters a spirit of giving back that resonates beyond just one night.

If you’d like to learn more about Catholic Charities and their initiatives, visit their official website.

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