Meet Tom Dulley, resident services specialist at Good Shepherd Village. This Q&A with Tom is the launch of our ongoing Voices of Hope feature, where we’ll shine the spotlight on members of the CCO community, including staff, partners, board members, volunteers and clients.
Tom Dulley was born at the old St. Vincent’s Hospital in Northwest Portland, the second of five children and the oldest son of Lloyd and Barbara Dulley. He graduated from Central Catholic High School and the University of San Francisco, where he met his wife of 48 years, Gwen. Together they’ve raised three children; Stephen, Elizabeth, and Erin, all Oregon State University graduates working in the financial sector. They’re proud grandparents to a granddaughter, Adelynn (“Addy”).
Following in his father’s footsteps, Tom spent 48 years in the wholesale produce industry with Pacific Coast Fresh and United Salad Co., learning nearly every job from warehouse to management. His Catholic faith is central to who he is. He’s a member of St. André Bessette Catholic Church, serves on the parish council and volunteers with Blanchet House and MFS CASH Oregon. Tom joined Catholic Charities earlier this year, inspired by the compassion and dedication of those who serve with such heart.
Name: Tom Dulley
Role with Catholic Charities: Resident Services Specialist at Good Shepherd Village
Year you first connected with Catholic Charities: I began working at Catholic Charities in September of 2025
How did you hear about Catholic Charities of Oregon, and what prompted you to get involved? I’ve known about Catholic Charities of Oregon since I was in grade school, and I’ve always respected its mission of compassion and dignity. When I saw an opportunity to join the organization in a role that directly impacts people’s lives, both materially and socially, I felt a clear calling to serve. After many years in the private sector, I wanted my work to reflect my values more deeply and to contribute to something lasting and meaningful.
What does being part of Catholic Charities/Catholic Social Teaching mean to you personally? For me, being part of Catholic Charities, and living out Catholic Social Teaching, means putting faith into action in tangible ways. It’s about recognizing the dignity in every person, especially those who have been overlooked or forgotten, and meeting them with compassion and respect. I’ve come to appreciate how real change happens through relationships; listening, helping, and walking alongside people as they work toward stability and hope.
What’s one story or moment from your time with Catholic Charities that you’ll never forget? At one of our bi-weekly food pantries, a veteran quietly told me how much he relied on and appreciated receiving his food box every two weeks. His gratitude was heartfelt, and it reminded me that food insecurity isn’t always visible. It can exist behind a friendly smile or stoic demeanor. Since that day, I’ve heard similar words from many residents, each one reinforcing how vital this small act of support can be.
What activities, situations or people most inspire you? At Good Shepherd Village, I’m most inspired by the residents who step forward to help when there’s a need; whether it’s unloading groceries, organizing the pantry, or offering a hand to a neighbor. Watching people who have faced their own challenges turn around and give of themselves reminds me what true community looks like. They renew my faith in what’s possible when compassion takes root, and they remind me that hope often grows strongest in the humblest of places.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to get involved—whether through volunteering, donating or seeking support? I’d tell them to take that first small step and get involved. Whether you volunteer an hour, donate a few items, or simply show up to lend a hand, you’ll quickly see that even small efforts can make a real difference. At Catholic Charities and Good Shepherd Village, we see every day how generosity builds community, not just for those receiving help, but for those giving it; and you’ll make new friends along the way.
What’s your favorite book, movie, TV show, podcast or social media account—and why? (Pick one!) My favorite movie is Hoosiers. There’s a scene near the end when the game is on the line and Jimmy Chitwood simply says, ‘I’ll make it.’ To me, that moment isn’t about ego or arrogance; it’s a belief that comes from preparation and faith. When we’ve done the hard work, stayed true to our principles, and trusted the process, we can face any challenge with calm confidence.
What’s on your personal “bucket list”—something you still hope to do, learn or experience? I would love to one day visit the Basilica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain. Construction began in 1882 and, after 143 years, it’s scheduled to be completed next year. What draws me to it is how it unites faith, engineering, architecture, and human perseverance into something truly unique in the world. A living testament to devotion and creativity. Within its walls, you can quite literally see the story of Christianity carved in stone.