DAA raises $1.2 million in pledges

By KATIE LEFEBVRE, Globe staff reporter
December 16, 2004

The Diocesan Annual Appeal for the Diocese of Sioux City has collected a total of $1.2 million in pledges as a result of 13,329 donors that have given as of Dec. 13.

"We are very grateful to all those who participated in the 2004 Diocesan Annual Appeal," said Steve Elbert, director of development for the Diocese of Sioux City. "We are hopeful that more people will commit to this year's appeal. We are hopeful that we will eventually get to $1.35 million."

Pledges and donations to the appeal coming in during the early part of the year is not unusual, so the final tally for the year should increase.

"A number of folks give towards the end of the year, and others wait until the spring to contribute to the Diocesan Annual Appeal," said Elbert. "We are very hopeful that more people will come to the table to support our ministries for the Roman Catholic Church in our diocese."

There has been roughly 50 percent participation every year, commented Elbert. There is hope that the percent gets up to 54 or 55 percent this year.

"The support that we receive for the DAA is very important," said Elbert. "The money is used for various ministries that are conducted on a diocesan level as well as on the parish level."

The money raised through DAA is important to different programs whether it be Catholic Charities, adult and family ministry, multi-cultural ministries, tribunal, permanent diaconate, religious education, the media center, information services and general program underwriting.

Not only are the diocesan level programs and ministry needs supported, all diocesan Catholic schools and every parish benefit from funds raised through the Diocesan Annual Appeal.

"Without the support of the many people and parishes of our diocese, many of these services could not be carried out," said Elbert. "It is a benefit, too, that our diocesan offices are able to minister to many parishes. Therefore our parishes don't have to hire someone individually at that parish, so collectively they are able to address some of the ministries through positions at the chancery office. That is good stewardship."

According to Elbert, there is an advisory committee that meets to suggest different methods or changes for the year. He added that their comments and input from the group this past year are very appreciated.

"If those that haven't given would contribute or think about contributing some, that would be great," said Elbert. "We understand that there are some people that just cannot do that at this time for whatever reason. We ask those folks to pray for the success of the DAA and to please know that we also remember them and hope their situation improves."