Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

In a season dominated by consumer spending events like Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday, Giving Tuesday emerges as a day dedicated to philanthropy. On December 3rd, the Archdiocese of Louisville will join 50 other U.S. dioceses in the #iGiveCatholic initiative for the second consecutive year.

Molly Keene Smith, director of the Archdiocese of Louisville’s Office of Mission Advancement, explained that #iGiveCatholic is an annual day of giving centered around parishes and schools. It provides an opportunity for these institutions to seek funding for projects not covered by their budgets. "They can still support their alma mater or parish," said Keene Smith about those who have moved away but wish to contribute.

Last year marked the archdiocese's inaugural participation in this initiative, where 900 donors contributed $220,437 to 35 parishes and schools. This year, 28 parishes and schools are set to participate.

Ascension Church plans to use funds from this year's campaign to replace playground surfaces after last year's successful campaign improved campus safety with security enhancements. St. Aloysius Church and School in Pewee Valley aims to continue its lighting efficiency upgrades initiated last year with LED fixtures on its first floor; this year's proceeds will target lighting improvements on the second floor and at the church's main entrance.

St. Leonard Church intends to construct accessible access facilities for its church and parish house, while Holy Trinity Church will allocate donations towards replacing kneelers.

Though Giving Tuesday falls on December 3rd, advanced giving starts on November 18th. Donations can be made through louisville.igivecatholic.org and will directly support projects chosen by each participating parish or school.