Several Catholic Causes Saw Endowment Funds Increase With Appreciated Gifts

Despite the restless market conditions, many Catholic causes that have endowment funds managed by the Catholic Foundation have benefited from donors’ generosity and investment savvy. Donors holding onto appreciated investments took advantage of tax savings by donating it to the endowment fund of their favorite Catholic cause. A sampling of endowment funds receiving appreciated tax benefiting gifts include the: Robert & Cynthia O’Hara Family Fund John Paul II Café Endowment Fund George…

Building for the Future: St. Anne Parish Strengthens Educational Endowment in Memory of Beloved Parishioner

For more than a century, St. Anne School has been a beacon of faith-based education, nurturing young minds and hearts in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. “Rooted in Catholic tradition, we strive to prepare students for a future of academic success, moral responsibility, and compassionate leadership,” said Rev. Anthony Mongiello, Pastor of St. Anne Parish. “However, maintaining our mission requires more than dedication and hard work — it also demands financial sustainability.” Thankfully,…

Faith, Philanthropy and ABBA? Why It Pays Off to ‘Take a Chance’ on Endowments

Fifty years ago, ABBA’s new single, Take a Chance on Me, soared to #1 on the UK charts. It may seem an unorthodox connection, but the song’s message resonates with the work of the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania. Over the years, 115 partners and hundreds of donors have taken a chance on us, placing their trust in the power of endowment funds to sustain their beloved Catholic causes. Parishes,…

Teacher Excellence Funds Recognize Faculty for Outstanding Work, Dedication to Students

Much of the success in student achievement may be attributed to the dedication of the administration and faculty working in our Catholic schools. Together, along with parents, they cultivate a dynamic and creative learning environment that empowers students to reach their full potential. Attracting & retaining top faculty with a competitive salary has become a key discussion point for parishes and schools locally and nationally. Four years ago, the Catholic…

Catholic Schools Transform Students Into Faithful Disciples

Catholic Schools Week (January 26—February 1, 2025), a time-honored national celebration, is the perfect time to recognize how Catholic Education has impacted and shaped the lives of young people in our region for centuries. A key component of the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania’s strategic plan is the commitment to Catholic schools. Almost fifty percent of the Catholic Foundation’s endowment or donor designated funds are earmarked towards operations or scholarships…

Endowment Honors Coyle Family Members, Supports Scholarships at St. Ann School

After the passing of three relatives recently, the Coyle family wanted to do something to honor their loved ones while being consistent with their Catholic values. The newly established Coyle Family St. Ann School Scholarship Endowment Fund at the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania honors three members of their family: Patrick Coyle, Janet Coyle McDonald and Gerald Coyle. The perfect option, they thought, was a scholarship fund for Catholic school…

‘Tis the Season to Make Year-End Gifts

IRAs, appreciated stock and donor-advised fund donations to endowments provide lasting benefits for Catholic causes, and smart tax benefits for donors. At the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania, we make it easy for you to help your favorite Catholic parish, school, or ministry by donating appreciated securities, donating from your IRA or making a grant from your donor-advised fund. Not only will these gifts help your favorite Catholic cause thrive…

Living by St. Joseph’s example: A Father’s Love and Acceptance of God’s Will Shine in Spring’s Renewal and Easter’s Promise

Dear Friends, March heralds spring’s arrival, a season of hope and new beginnings. Join me in welcoming its warmth and promise of renewal as we bid farewell to winter. As nature awakens, let’s remember the boundless possibilities ahead. March also holds special significance for my family as we honor St. Joseph (March 19), chosen by God as Jesus’ earthly father. His unwavering faith, love, and dedication make him a timeless…

Endowment Funds Ensure the Future of Catholic Education

Outcomes, faith-filled environment make schools top funding priority for Catholic Foundation donors Dioceses across the United States, including Allentown, just wrapped up the annual week-long celebration of Catholic education. Catholic Schools Week showcases how students benefit from a rigorous academic program with consistent outcomes coupled with a faith-filled, family-friendly school environment. These benefits make Catholic school education a top funding priority for donors of the Catholic Foundation of Eastern Pennsylvania….

Sister Janice Marie Johnson, R.S.M: Her Service to Others Will Be Remembered Forever

Honoring a Champion for Persons with Special Needs November is not just about falling leaves; it’s about embracing the diverse abilities of all individuals. It is a time to recognize and celebrate the achievements of persons with disabilities, acknowledging the richness they bring to our communities.. The hope is that the awareness kindled during this month becomes a catalyst for lasting change. By shining a spotlight on the unique challenges…

Author: Pete Waldron