Keep Moving Forward: Fundraising Through Uncertainty

In times of economic uncertainty, Catholic school leaders understandably begin to worry - Will donors pull back? Will giving slow down? Should we pause our campaigns?

But history tells us a different story.

After the tech bubble burst in the early 2000s, Catholic schools that stayed active in fundraising emerged stronger, with deeper donor relationships and more focused messaging. During the financial crisis of 2008 - 2009, many advancement leaders who continued sharing their mission saw donors step up - not step back - because the schools remained faithful to their values. And when the pandemic hit in 2020, it was those schools that kept communicating with clarity and compassion that inspired record-breaking generosity.

The lesson is clear: mission-driven fundraising doesn’t stop during a crisis - it matters more than ever.

Now is the time to remind your donors that your school isn’t just a building or a tuition bill. It's a beacon of faith, formation, and hope in a world that desperately needs all three. Let them know:

• Your mission is unchanged. Your students still need faith-filled education and formation.
• Their gifts still make an impact. In fact, they make more of an impact during challenging times.
• You’re praying with and for them. That shared foundation of faith is a unique strength of Catholic schools.

Economic uncertainty will come and go, but your school’s mission is timeless. Keep telling your story. Keep inviting others into it. Keep moving forward - because hope is part of the Catholic identity.

"Let us hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope, for he who made the promise is trustworthy." - Hebrews 10:23