We are thrilled to share that Josh Diedrich, Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Green Bay, has been named the Outstanding Fundraising Professional by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), Northeast Wisconsin Chapter. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who exemplify excellence in fundraising, leadership, and service to their communities.
Josh was selected for his exceptional leadership, commitment to ethical fundraising, and his transformative impact on Catholic philanthropy in northeastern Wisconsin. With more than two decades of experience, Josh has built a legacy of trust, stewardship, and generosity that continues to shape the future of the Church.
A Legacy of Faith, Strategy, and Philanthropy
Josh’s journey with the Catholic Foundation began in 2000, and over the past 25 years, he has played a pivotal role in shaping its mission and expanding its reach. Starting as a Marketing Specialist, Josh quickly demonstrated a deep understanding of donor engagement and strategic communication. In 2004, he was promoted to Bishop’s Appeal Director and Assistant Director, where his leadership helped grow the annual campaign from $3.8 million to over $6 million to support essential diocesan ministries.
Josh also led the transformation of the annual Seminarian Collection, turning it into a diocesan-wide mailing campaign that raised over $1 million annually to support the education of future priests. Through the Advancing the Mission campaign, he helped raise nearly $40 million, establishing four endowments that continue to fund evangelization, leadership development, lifelong catechesis, and priest support. Three of these endowments have distributed more than $5 million in grants since 2009.
When Josh became Executive Director in 2018, he brought with him a strategic mindset and a deep commitment to partner with families interested in leaving a legacy to support the Church’s mission. His thoughtful, mission-driven approach has helped hundreds of families align their philanthropic goals with the needs of parishes, schools, and ministries. He oversaw the largest capital campaign in diocesan history—the one by One campaign—which raised over $96 million to support parishes, schools, and diocesan initiatives.
Why Leaving a Legacy Matters
Legacy gifts—whether through an endowment or bequest—are powerful ways to support ministries of parishes, Catholic schools, the Diocese of Green Bay, and other nonprofit organizations that make a brighter future in northeast Wisconsin:
- Endowments provide perpetual support for ministries, schools, and parishes.
- Donor Advised Funds offer flexibility and ongoing engagement in charitable giving.
- Bequests allow donors to make a final, faithful statement of support in their estate plans.
These gifts ensure that the Church can continue its work in education, service, and ministry for years to come.
“One of our greatest joys at the Foundation is helping families leave a legacy. These gifts are rooted in love, faith, and a desire to serve the Church for generations to come. It’s humbling to walk alongside families as they discern how best to share their blessings,” explained Diedrich.
A Mission That Transforms Lives
For nearly 30 years, the Catholic Foundation has supported Catholic parishes, schools, ministries, and organizations throughout northeastern Wisconsin. Through the Catholic Foundation, families leave a legacy of faith, helping others encounter Jesus and building a culture that cherishes life.
Josh’s recognition by AFP is a testament to his dedication, integrity, and the deep impact of his work. We celebrate this honor and look forward to the continued growth of Catholic philanthropy under his leadership.
About Josh Diedrich
Josh Diedrich has worked for the Catholic Foundation for the Diocese of Green Bay, Inc. for 25 years. During that time, he has raised millions of dollars for Catholic causes within the Diocese of Green Bay, positively impacting families, parishes, schools, and dozens of non-profits. His dedication to the profession is evident to all who meet him, as he readily shares stories of impact, builds meaningful relationships, and undertakes new endeavors to support the Church’s mission.