Igniting Hearts: Catholic Foundation of Michigan Celebrates Annual Grant Awards

DETROIT — The Catholic Foundation of Michigan gathered donors, ministry leaders, pastors, and community partners for its annual Grant Award Celebration on December 10 at the Detroit Athletic Club, where $206,000 in grants were awarded to 27 ministries, parishes, and schools across Michigan.

Since its founding in 2017, the Catholic Foundation has helped steward more than $34 million in grants, empowering hundreds of ministries to serve, accompany, and inspire thousands of people across the state. This year’s breakfast celebration highlighted the theme “Igniting Hearts: where faith grounds us and the Holy Spirit propels us forward,” reflecting the Foundation’s commitment to uplifting Spirit-led innovation and strengthening communities throughout Michigan. 

Back by popular demand after a one-year hiatus, the event was made possible by the generosity of Merrill Lynch MG Group, whose partnership allowed the breakfast to be offered at no cost to attendees.

Board member Anthony Schena, outgoing chair of the Grants and Impact Committee, opened the program with reflections on the Parable of the Talents, reminding guests that God multiplies the gifts we offer back to Him. “Your generosity, your compassion, and your faithfulness ignite hearts,” Schena shared. “The ministries we support are multiplying Christ’s love in immeasurable ways.”

This year’s applications represented a broad spectrum of ministries — from Catholic schools expanding formation opportunities, to parishes strengthening family life, to outreach programs serving vulnerable neighbors. 

Board members, donors, and grant partners heard firsthand how these projects are renewing communities and responding to the needs of the faithful with creativity, compassion, and deep faith. A closer look at how these projects are renewing communities and serving the faithful is featured in the video below. For a full list of the 2025 grantees, please click here. 

This year’s celebration also included a special moment of gratitude for several of the Foundation’s founding board members, whose seasons of service—beginning in 2016—have now come to a close. President & CEO, Angela Moloney, Board Chair Chris Allen and incoming Chair Mike Vlasic recognized the following members for their years of faithful leadership: Harry Cendrowski, John Hale, Tom Fabbri, Frank Migliazzo, Stefan Wanczyk, Dan Weingartz, and Founding Chair Patrick Fehring.

Reflecting on the Foundation’s growth, Angela noted the enduring legacy of its founders. “Nearly ten years ago, a group of visionary and faithful lay leaders responded to a bold call—to establish a transparent, lay-led Catholic foundation that would serve our Church with integrity, excellence, and generosity,” she said. “Because of their courage and commitment, we stand here today strong, mission-focused, and flourishing.”

Incoming board chair Mike Vlasic also offered words of appreciation for outgoing chair Chris Allen. “Chris is bold, generous, and impactful,” Vlasic said. “His leadership has brought focus, strength, and confidence to this Board, and we are fortunate that he will remain a board member following his service as chair.”

Lastly, the celebration also honored Angela Moloney, the Foundation’s President & CEO whose visionary leadership has guided the Foundation from its beginning. The board expressed heartfelt gratitude as she prepares to begin her next chapter at Gleaners Food Bank.

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