by Nicholas J. Vendikos, KHS
Director of Development
As I write this column, we have entered into the Season of Lent and, quite frankly, I ask that you please remember Futures In Education (FIE) in your almsgiving.
Even in these trying economic times, Futures must continue with our fundraising efforts to support the students and their families entrusted to our care. Currently, there are over 30,000 Catholic school students in our Diocese, and that number continues to rise. Your generosity this season is so important to us. It will allow Futures In Education to provide a Catholic, faith-based education to students who otherwise would have nowhere to turn but a failing public school system.
Your benevolence at this time will support families who are at or below the poverty level. Their only wish is to see their sons and daughters attend Catholic schools and have the same strong educational foundation successful individuals receive. I am not going to rattle of the statistics because you know them as well as I do. I am going to stress to you that there were over 2,000 children who could not attend Catholic schools in 2013 due to financial constraints. That total is way too high for us and, I know, for you and may like-minded individuals. Your compassion and generosity at this time will mean the difference in a child’s life.
I ask that you please support our efforts with a gift at this time as Futures continues its fundraising to provide for the academic opportunities that are synonymous with Catholic education.
Please be a messenger for Futures In Education and let your family, friends and colleagues know about us. One of our goals for 2014 is to increase awareness about our organization and attract more individuals to be an Angel, a partner in our ever-growing Adopt A School program, endowment benefactor, member of the Fons Vitae Society for planned giving or a special event sponsor.
Your Easter gift will demonstrate your commitment that the work done by Catholic schools and Academies will continue to shape generations that follow. Furthermore, it allows Futures In Education to approach corporations and foundations who often review donor participation rates before deciding upon which non-profits to support.
During these trying times when corporate dollars are cut, there is a mandate that non-profits demonstrate not only need but a constituency dedicated to its cause. Private dollars are now more important than ever.
Futures In Education tries to make giving extremely easy so you can mail your check to the Futures In Education, 243 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, New York 11215 or visit http://www.futuresineducation.org and click on “Donate” on our secure website.
Thank you for your support of Futures In Education and Catholic schools. I hope that you and your family have a very blessed Easter.