by Derek Lyssy
Recently, I had the joy of watching my daughter receive her first Communion.
It was a beautiful moment that reminded me how faith is passed from one generation to the next. Moments like these are made possible by the sacrifices and generosity of those who came before us.
Because of these sacrifices, children today can encounter Christ in the sacraments and begin a lifelong relationship with him. I am deeply grateful, and it is what inspires our work at the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas.
Much of what we do happens behind the scenes, but it is essential to sustaining the church. We help turn generosity into lasting support for the church by connecting individuals and families with meaningful ways to give. Each gift, whether given today or planned for the future, becomes part of something greater and more enduring.
One of the most important ways we do this is through endowments. These permanent funds are invested to provide steady, long-term support for parishes, schools, and ministries. Rather than being spent all at once, they generate reliable income year after year, creating a strong and dependable financial foundation.
We also manage donor-advised funds, which offer a flexible and simple way to give. Donors contribute, receive an immediate tax benefit, and recommend grants over time. For many families, this becomes a way to stay actively involved in their charitable giving and pass those values on to the next generation.
Supporting Catholic education is another key part of our work. Through scholarship funds, we help open doors for students and strengthen the future of the church, creating opportunities that can shape lives for years to come.
We also partner with parishes, schools, and ministries to strengthen their long-term sustainability, helping ensure the church remains vibrant for generations.
Since our founding, we have distributed more than $110 million in grants to Catholic ministries and other charitable causes. This growing legacy reflects the generosity of faithful donors across our community and the impact of thoughtful, faith-driven giving.
When I think back to my daughter’s first Communion, I am reminded that these moments are a gift. Together, we can help ensure future generations experience the same grace.
If this mission speaks to you, I invite you to reach out and learn how you can make a lasting impact. Contact us at: cfnek@archkck.org or call (913) 647-3062.
