A Night of Grace and Generosity for Inclusive Catholic Education

St. Margaret of Castello Granting Fund Benefit

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan is deeply grateful to all who joined us on Wednesday, September 10 for the St. Margaret of Castello Granting Fund Benefit at Penna’s of Sterling Heights. It was a beautiful evening filled with prayer, friendship, and a shared commitment to welcoming every child into a Catholic education.

From the first warm greetings at the door to the final blessing, guests experienced the spirit of St. Margaret—joyful, inclusive, and rooted in the Gospel call to receive each child as Christ Himself. Supporters gathered over a strolling supper, met families and educators leading the way in special education, and heard inspiring words about the dignity of every student.

Thanks to the generosity of so many, the evening surpassed its $50,000 matching challenge and raised $123,000 to strengthen Catholic special-education programs across Michigan. With these gifts, the St. Margaret of Castello Granting Fund has now grown to more than $1.8 million, moving steadily toward the $5 million endowment goal that will ensure long-term support for inclusive education in our Catholic schools.

Growing Statewide Impact

In just two years, the Fund has opened doors for more than 15 students across three campuses, inspiring schools throughout Michigan to follow their lead. Six additional schools have already applied for grants for the upcoming school year—evidence of a movement that is taking root and growing.

An impact flyer shared at the event highlights how your generosity is transforming early pilot sites such as St. William in Walled Lake and Divine Child High School and Elementary in Dearborn, while building momentum across the state. Your gifts are helping new schools say “yes” to inclusive Catholic education.

Keep the Momentum Going

The celebration may be over, but the mission continues. You can still take part in this work of faith and inclusion:

• Make a Gift: Give online and help us reach the $5 million goal.
• Invite Others: Share this mission with schools, parishes, and families so that more children can receive the gift of a Catholic education.
• Volunteer: Join the committee or event team and help expand opportunities for students of all abilities.

Thank you for your prayers, your presence, and your partnership. Together we are answering the call of the Gospel and ensuring that Catholic schools across Michigan remain places where every child belongs. St. Margaret, pray for us!

Give Today to Support Inclusion Grants 

Learn more about the St. Margaret of Castello Fund