Over the course of my legal career, I have helped clients with their family and business needs, and one of the most effective tools is estate planning. Many of my Catholic clients have been looking for the Catholic version of the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, but there wasn’t anything comparable. I also work with heirs in estate administration when a loved one dies. In certain cases, the deceased family member left bequests to a long list of Catholic charities, however, some of those organizations had ceased to exist. In still other situations, a client may have created a donor-advised fund but the heirs did not want to deal with its administration. In all these circumstances, there was not a ready, trusted, and collaborative partner to offer assistance.

Marisa Petrella Managing Member, Petrella Brown PLC B.A. and law degrees from the University of Detroit Mercy Mercy High School, Farmington Hills St. Bede Catholic School, Southfield, Grades 1-8 Long-time parishioner, St. Regis, Bloomfield Hills Founders’ Circle and Board Member. Chair of the Marketing and Fund Development Committee.

Now, through the Catholic Foundation of Michigan, I can more easily assist those who want to contribute to Catholic causes either now, upon their death, or even beyond. The Foundation serves as a connection between the investment and donor communities, and Catholic apostolates. Our goal is to highlight the good work being done by these ministries and to create awareness of their many needs.

In addition, the Catholic Foundation of Michigan invests funds according to the guidelines of the U.S. Catholic Conference of Bishops so that investments are aligned with values. Further, if a Catholic organization is left a bequest, but is no longer active, the Catholic Foundation of Michigan may designate a like-charity or help the family decide on an alternative charity. The Foundation also will assume the proper and orderly administration of donor-advised funds.

It’s clear the Spirit is at work in what we’re doing, and you can’t hold the Spirit back! The Catholic Foundation will exceed our expectations because God is working through us.

Join the Founders’ Circle: I encourage my fellow Catholics who are financially able, to join the Founders’ Circle out of gratitude to God for the gifts they have received. Everything we have comes from God. What a privilege it is to share with those in need, and for the benefit of parishes and Catholic schools.

Membership in the Founders’ Circle is open through the end of 2018. Individuals who contribute $5,000 for five years to support the ministry of the Catholic Foundation, during its formative years, will be remembered in perpetuity. Benefits include public recognition as well as invitations to annual education, social and spiritual events hosted by the Foundation. To join the Founder’s Circle, or for more information, contact Angela Moloney, President and CEO at Info@CatholicFoundationMichigan.org or call (248) 204–0332.

Testimonial