Investing with Faith / Jolinda Moore

Through generous gifts, CCF sends $10 million annually in distributions to archdiocesan parishes, schools and ministries

Christmas is the time of year for us to take stock in our many blessings. While God provided the ultimate gift to humanity in the form of his Son baby Jesus, we follow his example in generosity.

At the Catholic Community Foundation (CCF) of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, we experience great generosity every day, but especially at year’s end.

CCF has been in existence since 1987 and, as of the close of our last fiscal year, we manage 589 endowment and donor-advised funds with combined assets of more than $247 million. The larger our assets, the more we are able to distribute to parishes, schools and ministries throughout the archdiocese.

In fiscal year 2024, we sent more than $10 million in distributions to our parishes, schools and ministries. Many of these funds provide for necessary operating expenses or capital projects, scholarships, as well as specific purposes designated by the donor.

With these distributions, our ministries are able to fund education, feed, clothe and shelter the needy, provide supplies to those suffering in third-world nations, maintain our cemeteries and much more. When you establish a new fund with CCF, or donate to an existing fund, you are contributing to the overall mission of the Catholic Church in our archdiocese and the tens of thousands of people we serve.

The Catholic Community Foundation exists to serve and help provide financial security for archdiocesan entities. We work with individual donors as well as parishes, schools and ministries to establish new funds that produce annual income as well as grow the fund principal designed to last into perpetuity.

Each fund within the CCF tells a unique story of faith, love and foresight. These endowment gifts are not only financial contributions but also meaningful ways to honor or memorialize loved ones. Our donors recognize that by ensuring long-term resources for the Church, they are helping to extend the compassion of Jesus to the world in enduring and impactful ways.

The Catholic Community Foundation is committed to upholding Catholic values in all our endeavors. Our investment policy follows the guidelines of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops for socially responsible investing, ensuring that our financial practices align with sound investment principles and our faith. Guided by an exemplary advisory board and committees, CCF is a visible and trusted resource for every parish, school and ministry within the archdiocese. Together, we work to sustain the mission of the Church and witness Christ’s love to all.

So this year when we count our blessings, we especially count each donor, parish, school or ministry that has contributed to CCF funds. May the Lord bless you with abundance and inspire you to share your blessings with others.

Create the space you need for a happy and holy Christmas season. Avoid the rush and reach out to the Catholic Community Foundation now at 317-236-1482 or ccf@archindy.org.
 

(Jolinda Moore is executive director of the archdiocesan Office of Stewardship and Development and the Catholic Community Foundation [CCF]. Tax or legal information provided herein is not intended as tax or legal advice. Always consult with your legal, tax or financial advisors before implementing any gift plan. If you would like to learn more about including your parish in your estate plans, please contact us any time at 317-236-1482 or ccf@archindy.org. We exist to exclusively serve you and your parish in planned giving.) †