Hannah Dercks

Life can be challenging. There are times when people feel so lost. They find help through Catholic Charities and the many programs and resources in our Diocese. Your gift to the Bishop’s Appeal helps people experience Christ’s love and helps Catholic Charities be able to serve so many people throughout northeastern Wisconsin.

St. Pope John Paul II declared, “We are an Easter People.”  We are called to rejoice in Jesus’ sacrifice and deep love for us.  Not only should we rejoice, but also, we should live as Jesus lived: to share the Father’s love and message with everyone we encounter.  Together in faith, we can leave a legacy that shares Jesus with the world. 

More than a quarter century ago, a legacy to benefit the Catholic Church was being built right here in northeastern Wisconsin. Here at the Catholic Foundation, it is our honor to partner with you in leaving your legacy to benefit the Church. The success of the Catholic Foundation is because of friends like you who love the Church and want to see more people discover Jesus in their lives.

More than 25 years ago, Bishop Robert Banks, Donald Long Sr., and Cindi Brawner planted a seed in northeastern Wisconsin.  It was with humble beginnings and deep faith that the seed was sown all those years ago.  Thanks to the generosity of families like yours, we have seen great fruit and brought Jesus to thousands of people. Here’s to another 25 years of prosperity and partnership with generous families like yours!

Rev. Monsignor John Bernard Dewane, a Catholic Foundation board member emeritus, devout pastor, and diocesan administrator, passed away on February 15, 2024, at the age of 89.  His leadership was driven by the Holy Spirit.  He brought Jesus to hundreds through his diocesan work and played an important part in the beginning years of the Catholic Foundation.

Ash Wednesday kicks off the Lenten season on February 14, 2024, and with it comes many opportunities to grow our faith. Through Lenten observations, there is a recurring theme for this holy, reflective season: we give. With great love, we can give to others.  That is our mission for Lent. Together, we can follow Christ’s example and share our love with thousands throughout northeastern Wisconsin. 

“New Year, new you.” You’ve probably heard this saying time and time again, and with it comes people trying all sorts of new experiences to transform themselves. You can make a positive change not only for this year, but also for years to come. Creating a plan for giving can transform the lives of families across northeastern Wisconsin.