DAA raises $1.23 million, effort continues

By RENEE WEBB, Globe editor
December15, 2005

Each fall the Diocese of Sioux City holds an appeal to fund diocesan-level programming and ministries.

According to Steve Elbert, director of development for the diocese, 13,154 donors have pledged $1,235,883 to the Diocesan Annual Appeal as of Dec. 9. Thus far, the average gift has been $93.95.

"We are very grateful to the people of the diocese for their continued kindness to the DAA. The appeal is vital for many programs - both diocesan as well as parish programs," he said. "We are very thankful to those who have contributed and encourage those who haven't participated to help us with a gift to DAA."

Money raised through DAA helps to fund programs and ministries of Catholic Charities, adult and family ministry, multi-cultural ministries, tribunal, permanent diaconate, religious education, the media center, information services and general program underwriting.

In addition to supporting diocesan-level ministries, parishes and diocesan Catholic schools also receive financial benefits as a result of DAA. Each parish receives the following return: a parish with two parish schools will receive 74 percent and the diocese receives 26 percent; a parish with one school receives 34 percent and the diocese receives 66 percent; a parish with no school receives 5 percent while the diocese receives 95 percent.

Any money raised that is above the parish's specific goal, is returned directly to the parish.

Elbert stressed the fact that there is still time to give.

"The DAA drive typically takes place in September and October, however we receive gifts throughout our fiscal year. The fiscal year ends on June 30," said Elbert. "We continue to receive gifts up until that time."

By year's end, the development director said they hope to reach $1.4 million. Last year's campaign raised $1.32 million. To date, this year's totals are running slightly ahead of last year.

"We are hoping that those who have not yet contributed to the Diocesan Annual Appeal find it in their hearts to help with a financial gift either this year or early next year," said Elbert.

The development director noted that he understands there may be circumstances that prevent some families from participating in the appeal but asked that they keep the DAA and diocese in their prayers.

"When times are better for them, we ask that they consider supporting us," he said.

For those who wish to make a donation, they might opt to make a pledge or a one-time gift. A convenient reminder system is in place for those who wish to fulfill their pledge over a designated length of time.

"This was our 30th anniversary for DAA - so if you think of the years that we have had the appeal, the impact of this particular drive is enormous for our programs and ministries throughout our diocese," said Elbert. "Again, we are very grateful to past generations, present generations and future generations who have and will support the DAA in the coming years."