Most people can’t envision themselves as philanthropists. That image is reserved for multi-millionaires or even billionaires with well-known names.
Philanthropy is about compassion and generosity for others and the Archdiocese of Denver wants its faithful members to know that the spiritual experience of charity is available to everyone at all giving levels. The Archdiocese has more than 40 ministries that spread the missions of faith formation, faith leadership and works of mercy.
The Archdiocese has made an intentional new focus on its missions and that new concentration came with a new name — the Office of Mission Advancement.
“The Archdiocese wants to engage with donors in a purposeful way that emphasizes the Church’s good works and reinforces our mission of sharing the Gospel and bringing others into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ,” said Paul Dudzic, Chief Officer of Mission Advancement.
“Our impact is greater than ever because of our donors and we want them to partner with us to lift up the Gospel’s message and enhance their giving experience at the same time,” Dudzic said.
The office has a team of professionals who can partner with donors and help them identify, prioritize and fulfill their philanthropic goals and visions within the Church.
“Donors are able to understand more deeply where they are giving,” said Major Gift Officer Kelsey Greiner. “We can introduce them to the different ministries, answer any questions that they might have, and give them insight into new initiatives within the ministries that they might not get from just viewing the website.”
Andrew Castillo has been partnering with donors for more than two years and he believes the relationships between the ministries and the benefactors are a vital part of the process.
“People who fundraise don’t want philanthropy to feel transactional,” Castillo said. “Our job is to connect in that place: where your love for the Catholic church, your personal philanthropy and the Church’s needs can meet.”
Nonprofit giving by individuals in the United State totaled nearly $430 billion in 2018 and religious organizations make up almost 30 percent of that, according to Giving USA statistics.
“Philanthropy is not just about money, it’s also about being a champion of our work and helping connect us with other passionate individuals who care about the Church,” said Andrew Schaefer, Director of Mission Advancement.
Schaefer oversees the team of gift officers dedicated to enhancing the impact of donations and philanthropic goals.
“The Catholic Church has a great culture of community and giving in many different ways — that is just one way that makes the Catholic Church a special place,” Schaefer said.
Team Roster
Our team is here to be a resource for you and your family as you make philanthropic decisions that help advance the Mission of the Archdiocese within its more than 40 ministries including: Archbishop’s Catholic Appeal, Seeds of Hope, Catholic elementary schools, Prophet Elijah House, St. John Vianney Seminary, Redemptoris Mater Seminary, Annunciation Heights, Centro San Juan Diego, Bishop Machebeuf and Holy Family high schools.
Paul Dudzic
Chief Officer of Mission Advancement
Andrew Schaefer
Director of Mission Advancement
Andrew Castillo
Major Gift Officer
Kelsey Greiner
Major Gift Officer
Lisa Metcalfe
Major Gift Officer
Ways you can help Advance the Mission:
1. Make financial contribution commensurate with your capacity.
2. Invite others to connect with the mission advancement team and ministry leaders.
3. Evangelize to help advance our faith and share the Good News.
