- Our Team
Get to Know Our Operations & Leadership Team
Behind every donation deposited, every personalized thank-you letter sent, and every grant distributed is our operations and leadership team. Chris Raun, Executive Director, and Melanie Kottwitz, Director of Operations, ensure your gifts are handled with care while supporting you throughout the giving process.
Chris Raun
As Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation, Chris believes every gift is an invitation to serve. He spends much of his time meeting with donors, listening to their hopes, and helping them connect generosity with life’s practical realities.
Many people come to Chris wanting to give, but also facing complex questions:
- How do I provide for long-term care needs?
- How do I divide my business among heirs?
- How do I pass the family farm on to the next generation?
- How do I continue supporting my parish after I’m gone?
By addressing these concerns first, Chris helps donors to be more confident with their giving.
“We have to be good listeners,” Chris says. “People want to make a gift to the Church, but they also want peace of mind for their families. When we address those needs, they are free to give joyfully. You really cannot out-give God—He always gives back far more than you give.”
Melanie Kottwitz
Melanie oversees the day-to-day details that make giving to the Foundation seamless. From depositing donations and preparing gift acknowledgments to answering donor questions, Melanie ensures every gift is received, recorded, and celebrated.
“I love working at the Catholic Foundation because I get to see the Holy Spirit working through our donors,” Melanie shares. “It’s incredible to witness how one simple desire to help can impact the Catholic Church and the community at large.”
