As the season of giving unfolds, Catholics are again invited to unite in faith and generosity through the #iGiveCatholic campaign. This annual fundraiser connected to Giving Tuesday after Thanksgiving is more than just a giving day – it’s an opportunity for parishes, schools and ministries to tell their stories, connect with supporters, and build a stronger, more vibrant Catholic community. The funds raised through this campaign directly and significantly impact The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington, supporting key initiatives and helping those in need.
Giving Tuesday this year is on Dec. 3.
Last year, parishes and ministries across the Archdiocese of Washington raised more than $720,000, benefiting 269 Catholic ministries.
Carey Lozano, the development and digital outreach officer for the archdiocese, said a direct-mail campaign for #iGiveCatholic is spotlighting initiatives like the Catholic Schools Office, the Laudato Si’ Action Plan, the Community Food Security Program, and the Disaster Relief Fund. The archdiocese hopes to surpass last year’s giving total, in order to expand the reach of Catholic ministries impacting people’s lives throughout Washington, D.C., and the surrounding Maryland counties.
Parishes and ministries looking to make the most of #iGiveCatholic can focus on three key areas: storytelling, goal-setting and engagement.
Sharing real stories about how a parish or ministry makes a difference can be a powerful tool. Stories such as a student thriving in a Catholic school or a family receiving vital support through the parish food pantry can make a personal connection with potential donors, showing how their contributions change lives, and can inspire them to be part of the mission of that parish or ministry.
Successful campaigns often target specific projects, such as funding a youth program or purchasing new liturgical supplies. By narrowing the focus, donors can better understand where their money is going and the impact it will have.
Regular updates through bulletins, social media, emails and personal outreach help maintain interest throughout the campaign. Parishes like St. Dominic in Washington have also found great success using matching gifts to amplify donations, thanks to generous donors who double the impact of each contribution.
How to support a parish or ministry through #iGiveCatholic
Whether they are part of a parish community or simply looking to support a cause close to their heart, #iGiveCatholic offers numerous ways for people to contribute.
Giving online or by mail
Visit washington.igivecatholic.org to search for your favorite parish or ministry and donate online. People can also send cash or check donations directly to participating organizations for inclusion in their campaign totals.
Early giving
The early giving phase for #iGiveCatholic runs from Nov. 18 to Dec. 2, 2024. Early gifts help parishes and ministries kickstart their campaigns and gain visibility, setting a positive tone for the entire campaign.
Making a tribute donation
People can also make a donation to the #iGiveCatholic campaign in honor of a family member, priest or religious, offering a way to express gratitude while supporting the mission of a parish or ministry.
Spreading the word through social media
People can engage with #iGiveCatholic on social media by sharing posts, using the hashtag #iGiveCatholic, and encouraging friends and family to join the movement.
Supporters are encouraged to connect with #iGiveCatholic on social media and join the conversation using #iGiveCatholic on Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, Threads, YouTube, and LinkedIn (@iGiveCatholic). By sharing posts and stories, supporters can help spread awareness and inspire others to participate.
To learn more about #iGiveCatholic or to find your parish or ministry, visit www.igivecatholic.org. To find a parish in the Archdiocese of Washington participating in the campaign, visit: washington.igivecatholic.org.
