Life with Chris
Behind every search for a kidney donor is a person whose life is defined by more than a diagnosis. Chris is a social worker, a volunteer, and a strong advocate for social justice.
In Chris' Words
I’m reaching out to share a deeply personal part of my journey in hopes of finding a path forward. Living with polycystic kidney disease means I’m now looking for a donor to help me stay healthy and avoid dialysis. It is a significant request, but it is a real way to make a difference and help me keep going. I am grateful for your time, your kindness, and for sharing my story with those you know.
Chris Santoro Biography
Originally from Chester, Connecticut, Chris was born in the spring of 1978. A proud 2001 graduate of Marist College, he earned his degree in social work while dedicating his time to the campus ministry program.
Following graduation, Chris devoted himself to service through faith-based volunteer programs, supporting students with emotional and behavioral health difficulties in St. Paul, Minnesota, and serving with the Lutheran Urban Servant Corps at a homeless shelter in Denver, Colorado.
Upon returning to New England, Chris earned his MSW in Connecticut, and then worked in several case management positions in Connecticut and Minnesota involving people with mental illness.
Deeply influenced by the social justice teachings of the Catholic Church, he attained a degree in pastoral ministry from the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry and actively participated in the Our Lady Help of Christians parish in Newton, MA and the Jesuit Contemplative Leaders in Action program.
For the past thirteen years, Chris has been a social worker in Boston. He is currently the Director of Bay View Inn – a transitional housing program for individuals experiencing severe behavioral health challenges.
Good to Know: Chris has been listed at the MassGeneral Hospital Transplant Center.
The Inner Journey
A Life of Service
Chris has spent more than three decades walking alongside those facing the greatest challenges. From his early days as a frontline case manager to his current role leading a Boston shelter, his career has been a testament to the belief that every individual deserves dignity, safety, and a chance to thrive. He has spent his life solving problems for others, often behind the scenes, never asking for recognition.
Today, Chris faces a challenge he cannot solve alone. Diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), he is now the one in need of a community's support. Despite the physical toll the condition takes, he continues to show up for the shelter and its residents, driven by the same faith and calling that have guided him since the beginning. His story is one of unwavering commitment, and now, we are coming together to help him write the next chapter.
Professional Path
2023 – Present
Director, Bayview Inn
Leads Bay View Inn, a transitional shelter for individuals with mental health challenges run by Bay Cove Human Services, one of Boston’s major human services providers.
2013 - 2023
Social Worker, Boston Area
Building on graduate training in social work and a degree in pastoral ministry from Boston College, provided mental health case management and clinical assessment and support to clients in the Boston area.
2001 – 2009
Early Career & Service
Graduated from Marist College (B.A. in Social Work) while active in campus ministry. Obtained his MSW degree from the University of Connecticut and worked as a social worker in Connecticut and Minnesota. Served with Catholic Charities Volunteer Corps in St. Paul, Minnesota, supporting students with emotional and behavioral difficulties, and with the Lutheran Urban Servant Corps in Denver, Colorado, working at a homeless shelter.