Through enhanced reach, breadth of services, and an intensive effort to build exposure among Catholic organizations and laypersons, The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska achieved significant growth last year and steady momentum into 2018 and beyond.
In Fiscal Year 2017, under the direction of its board of directors, The Foundation established new goals and a solid platform to assist Catholic institutions and laypersons in the establishment and management of charitable funds, as well as comprehensive philanthropic planning services to donors.
them, they realize we’re a valuable resource.”
“The growth of The Foundation is a natural result of education,” said Chris Raun, Executive Director of The Catholic Foundation. “Once people understand what we do and how we can be of service to them, they realize we’re a
valuable resource.”
In speaking about the key to success, Raun said it’s based on effective communication.
“To give charitably is an emotional decision from the heart,” Raun said. “We sit down with fellow Catholics, and they tell us about themselves and what they care about. They share their desire to be charitable to the work of the Church in a meaningful way, but they need ideas, and they need help with the mechanics of giving. Once we understand someone’s charitable intentions, we can prepare a plan and execute the details. Therefore, the best thing we can do is simply listen, and then provide assistance. Implementation for the donor is easy with our help.”
In Fiscal Year 2018, Raun said The Foundation is already building nicely on its achievements in 2017.
“Our new board chairman, Walt Zink, has provided invaluable leadership and counsel to The Foundation,” said Raun. “His example of faith, and his expertise in the legal profession and in the military make him a wonderful leader and mentor. In addition, his past and present leadership roles in other Catholic organizations make him an outstanding and experienced chairman for us.”
Asked about what’s in store for 2018, Zink said, “The Catholic Foundation of Southern Nebraska will continue to build on past successes as it looks to the future. We are grateful to our donors who by their confidence in The Foundation continue to evangelize the Good News of Salvation!”
Other board officers serving The Foundation in 2018 are: Dorothy Endacott, Vice Chairperson, St. Michael Parish, Lincoln; Robert (Bob) Aitken, Treasurer, Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Falls City; and Deanna Sands, Secretary, St. Benedict Parish, Nebraska City.
“With its dedicated staff, committed Board members, and generous donors, The Foundation provides investment and estate planning opportunities that allow for the enhancement of God’s economic gifts, while at the same time benefiting the programs of local parishes and the Diocese of Lincoln,” said Zink.
Raun adds, “In addition to our direct work with laypersons and leaders of Catholic institutions, we provide back-office support for attorneys, accountants, and financial services professionals to meet the needs of their clients. Through careful planning, those clients not only pave the way for a secure financial future, but find the freedom to be more charitable to the work of the Catholic Church.”