Gene Chuzles first joined the Catholic Charities Bureau Management team on August 4, 1997 when he began working as the Director of the Challenge Center, Inc.   In July of 2014, after 17 years of service, Mr. Chuzles celebrated his retirement with participants and employees of the Community Rehabilitation Program providing Day, Work and Residential Services for vulnerable adults.

The Challenge Center was established over 40 years ago at the request of individuals and families seeking support for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. In that time the program has grown and evolved to meet the changing needs of the community.  Creative work environments that include Bay Produce, Marathon Industries and the community were developed to provide meaningful employment. The Day Services programs also provide a continuum of care, from Sensory Stimulation through Life Skills to  Seniors programs. Community integration is a primary theme of  services and is central to the evening & weekend recreation program.

In 2008 Mr. Chuzles welcomed the Most Reverend  Peter Christensen, Bishop of the Diocese of Superior, to tour the  Challenge Center Program which included a visit to the Bay Produce green houses and facilities.  As part of the social ministry arm of the Diocese, the Challenge Center serves to advance the shared mission of Catholic Charities Bureau, Inc. which provides direct service programs for the poor, the disadvantaged, the disabled, the elderly and children with special needs.

Everyone at Catholic Charities Bureau wishes Mr. Chuzles well in this next new adventure.