In Catholic education, our work transcends the bounds of daily tasks. Every decision, conversation, and dollar raised contributes to a vision far greater than ourselves. We're here to serve schools that nurture faith, intellect, and integrity in young lives. This mission, though inspiring, often brings its share of challenges—an unmet goal, a difficult ask, or ten people who haven't returned our phone calls. Yet, in the face of these challenges, I hold close my personal motto: "Always hopeful, never disappointed."

Hope is what makes our work different. In fundraising for Catholic schools, we're not just reaching out for contributions; we're inviting others to participate in something life-changing and giving them the opportunity to be generous. We are cultivating a legacy that will impact families, parishes, and entire communities. We are creating opportunities for students to grow in their faith and their potential.

Henri Nouwen captures the essence of our work beautifully: "Those who need money and those who can give money meet on the common ground of God's love. Even a seemingly small act of generosity can grow into something far beyond what we could ever ask or imagine." This calling is not just ours; it's God's work unfolding through us, and the Holy Spirit moves in the hearts of those we approach. Every gift—big or small—is an answer to a prayer, a piece of God's plan to sustain Catholic education for generations to come.

"Always hopeful" doesn't mean ignoring the struggles. It means actively seeking what we know is possible. It's about seeing beyond the obstacles to envision a thriving future for our schools and students, fueled by the generosity and faith of those who believe in our mission.

And then, there is "never disappointed." This part of my motto reminds me that each effort, even if it doesn't meet immediate success, moves us closer to our goal. Disappointment fades when we understand that every interaction we have, every outreach we make, is sowing seeds. Some seeds may take longer to grow, but they will bear fruit.  As my mentor always told me, "No doesn't really mean no; it means not yet."

For all Catholic school advancement team members, my encouragement to you is this: carry hope forward in every campaign, conversation, and community event. Hope in the generous hearts you encounter. And when challenges arise, embrace them with the knowledge that every step, even the tough ones, draws us closer to building a legacy of faith and excellence.

Together, with hope, we are creating something lasting. We are ensuring that every Catholic school remains a beacon of light, education, and faith. Always hopeful. Never disappointed. Let's keep inspiring and believing—knowing that our work, through God's grace, is never in vain.