Partners in Charity Ends 2013 Appeal at $4,868,683

Partners in Charity Ends Appeal at $4,868,683

Campaign ended ahead of last year’s total, despite missing $5M goal

September 12, 2013, WORCESTER, MA -- The Office for Stewardship and Development of the Diocese of Worcester announced today that the annual Partners in Charity appeal ended the 2013 campaign on August 31, 2012 after having raised $4,868,683. The total represents 97% of its $5 million goal and was ahead of last year’s total of $4,835,157.

“Allow me to express my gratitude to clergy, religious and laypeople who worked together so diligently on this campaign,” said Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, Bishop of Worcester. “May we all offer a prayer of thanksgiving and gratitude for the many sacrifices our donors make in order to support the ongoing charitable, educational and pastoral works which rely on this annual appeal.”

The bishop continued, “The continuing economic pressures on families and individuals has challenged our agencies and ministries to respond to the physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of those we serve. I am confident that with God’s help the Catholic Church will continue to bring hope to those who turn to our diocesan programs over the coming year.”

In the 2013 campaign 17,825 donors responded to the appeal with an average gift of $273.13. These donors included 117 St. Paul Society members who contributed a total of $807,756 to the campaign. The St. Paul Society consists of members who commit to a donation of $5,000 or more.

Michael Gillespie, director of the Office of Stewardship and Development, offered his thanks to the people of the diocese and to the pastors who direct the parish appeals. “We also owe a debt of gratitude to the pastors and the parish lay leadership, who helped us communicate the need for this appeal so effectively throughout Central Massachusetts,” added Mr. Gillespie.

Mr. Gillespie also made note of the advisory committee consisting of pastors and laypeople which assisted with this year’s campaign, “whose insights helped this year and in future campaigns.”

Campaign Highlights
Although the campaign did not make its goal, the appeal experienced many successes:
• It reached 97% of goal, despite a sluggish economy, and exceeded last year's total by approximately $33,526.
• It added 1,608 new donors
• 67 parishes reached or surpassed their goals, higher than last year
• 5 new members joined the St. Paul Society

A complete listing of parish results along with information about programs supported by the appeal can be seen online at www.partners-charity.net.