Frequently Asked Questions

What is Noah’s Appeal?
A direct appeal to raise monies for the 22 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Kalamazoo.

How does Noah’s Appeal work?
All tax deductible donations to Noah’s Appeal will be collected through December 31, 2009. In the Spring of 2010 the monies will be disbursed in the following ways:

10% of the total amount collected by a parish will be set aside for that parish to use for tuition assistance for their Catholic School families in need.

The remaining amount* will be split evenly between Catholic School Students family tuition accounts and the 22 Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Kalamazoo.
*less campaign administrative costs.

Why now?
To secure the long-term financial stability of our schools in these challenging economic times.

Why should I contribute?
The Catholic school educational experience is essential to the mission of the Catholic Church. The faith formation of our children is of the highest priority and Catholic Schools have a proven track record of success for academic excellence and theological immersion.

I have children in the Catholic schools. Am I expected to participate?
While all donations are encouraged and appreciated, Noah’s Appeal is designed to inspire Catholics not already supporting this very important mission of the Church to consider a charitable donation.

I already give to KDSA (Kalamazoo Diocesan Services Appeal). Doesn’t that money aid the schools?
KDSA donations provide the financial support that make possible a number of diocesan programs and services. Less than 10 percent of the money raised through KDSA supports the schools in the diocese and this small portion is used to cover the administrative costs of the Office of Schools and for scholarships for the three Catholic High Schools in the diocese.

How is Noah’s Appeal different than the various school foundations? I’m confused as to where to give my money?
Noah’s Appeal is an annual drive where donated money is collected and distributed to all 22 Catholic schools within the diocese after the end of the appeal. This year’s Noah’s Appeal will run through   December 31st and monies will be distributed in Spring of 2010. This appeal is the only funding vehicle that supports all 22 Catholic Schools in the diocese.

When does it launch?
A direct mail brochure with a return donor card will be mailed to parishioner’s homes the week of November 2nd. Pastors are encouraged to discuss Noah’s Appeal at all the Masses the weekend of November 7&8 and if possible show a videotaped message by Bishop Paul J. Bradley. Monies will be collected through December 31st, 2009 and distributed in the Spring of 2010.

What other ways will parishioners hear about Noah’s Appeal?
In addition to your efforts as an Appeal Volunteer there are a number of planned communications including articles in The Good News, the diocesan monthly newspaper; online exposure at the diocesan website: www.dioceseofkalamazoo.org/noahsappeal; through parish-based communications including bulletin and pulpit announcements; and potential articles and features in daily newspapers around the diocese.

How can people contribute?
By filling out the donor card sent to their homes inside the direct mail brochure; or by using the extra envelopes at the parish and returning it to the Diocese of Kalamazoo offices, 215 N. Westnedge, Kalamazoo, MI  49007. Stock gifts and employee-matching programs are accepted. Contact the Diocese of Kalamazoo Business Office for more information: 269-349-8714, ext. 348,

How many schools will benefit from Noah’s Appeal ?
To date there are a total of 22 Catholic schools within the Diocese of Kalamazoo; 17 elementary schools, 3 middle schools and two high schools.

When will the money raised in the appeal be directed to the schools?
Monies raised in the Noah’s Appeal will be distributed to schools in April, 2010.

Can I designate which student will receive the money?
No.

When will the results of the appeal be announced?
During Catholic Schools Week, January 31st, 2010.

Who do I contact for more information?
Margaret Erich, superintendent of Schools, merich@dioceseofkalamazoo.org; 269-349-8714, ext. 239 or

Vicki Cessna, Director of Communications, vcessna@dioceseofkalamazoo.org; 269-349-8714, ext. 350.