Why We Give

Inspired by Love and Loss, One Joliet Native Makes an Extraordinary Impact for Others

In the wake of loss, Bob Heinzel decided to donate his time and energy to St. Paul the Apostle, while strengthening our diocese’s future with a legacy gift.

Granting Wishes and Scholarships

Through outright and planned gifts, benefactors to the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) provide financial aid and grant a wish every day to a Catholic school student.

In Memory of Jeff Kennedy’s Generosity

The Diocese of Joliet is mourning the loss of Jeff Kennedy, a longtime member of Visitation Parish in Elmhurst and a fervent supporter of vocations and seminarian formation. Jeff passed away in June 2022 at age 80.

Mrs. Bannon's Gift of Help and Hope

Jim decided that Catholic Charities would be a good recipient of his late mother's gift and reached out to Tony Brandolino, director of planned giving.

A Life of Service and Dedication to the Church

The Bible is filled with quotes on how we are called to help those in need—to feed, clothe and care for others. Marilynn Halasz has taken these quotes to heart, initiating them into her daily life—volunteering her time wherever needed, financially supporting the Catholic Church and spiritually supporting others through her prayers.

Sharing the Love of Christ With the Next Generation

The donors of the Catholic Education Foundation believe in the life-changing promise of Catholic education. And many donors choose to secure their legacy with an endowed scholarship, which allows them to give part of their estate to the Catholic Education Foundation to help grow the hearts and minds of future generations of Catholics.

Thankfulness for Past Kindness Inspires Generosity Today

When donor Marilyn Van Hoegarden started her required minimum distribution, she decided to directly distribute the extra income from her IRA to the Catholic Education Foundation without federal tax penalty.

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