CFAD distributes nearly $3 million in grants to Catholic organizations

DUBUQUE — The Catholic Foundation in the Archdiocese of Dubuque (CFAD) board of directors approved grants totaling $2,957,657 to 153 Catholic parishes, schools, cemeteries, social service and other Catholic nonprofit organizations in the 30 counties that encompass the archdiocese. The grants, most of which are designated for specific organizations, will help sustain the faith and serve ministries during the 2020-2021 fiscal year.

“These last few months have been trying times for our communities and organizations,” CFAD executive director Michele Brock said. “The Catholic organizations we serve have missions to bring Christ to all, serving the spiritual and corporal needs of those they encounter. These grants help them in regular times, but are especially helpful in times of crisis to be a dependable source of funds for them so they can serve those in need.”

CFAD, the independent, public foundation for the Catholic community in the area of the archdiocese, assists donors who wish to sustain the faith by providing for the long-term needs of Catholic organizations. CFAD receives and manages assets via Catholic responsible investing to provide perpetual funding for evangelization, spiritual, educational and social service ministries within the 30-county area it serves.

Tracy Morrison, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque, noted that the organization has its endowment with CFAD. “Catholic Charities receives an annual distribution from our investments in CFAD to help us continue all the various ministries that we do throughout the years. Through our partnership with CFAD, we can ensure that the donor’s intent is being recognized, that their monies are being invested in socially responsible ways and that we are being the best stewards of their sacrificial gifts.”

Father Brian Dellaert, pastor of parishes in New Hampton, Ionia and North Washington, said that those thinking of their legacy can have an important impact on the future.

“Supporting the sustainability and vibrancy of our Catholic faith through financial planning is one of those necessary ways that we need to advance the mission of the church and promote its mission. In order to do that, we need a sound investment for the long-term,” said the priest.

He added, “We’ve had great success at our parish and school because of the wisdom and vision of grandparents, parents

And, they expect that to pay off dividends years down the road and support people years down the road in ways that we can’t even anticipate right now. They believe in the words, ‘where your treasure is, your heart will also be.’”

Information on CFAD, its endowment and investments and legacy giving services can be found at OurCFAD.org or by calling 563-552-0176.