As the Diocese of Wichita embarks on the final phase of its "One Family, Fully Alive in Christ!" Campaign, the impact is set to extend well beyond the campaign's summer conclusion, thanks to the prospect of future estate gifts. These contributions are poised to sustain and enhance the campaign's priorities for future generations.

Connor Meier, assistant director for development & planned giving, emphasized the historical generosity that has built the diocese's current facilities and ministries. He remarked, “The Diocese of Wichita has always been blessed by the generosity of so many, including and especially those who came before us.”

A key component of the Fully Alive! Campaign is the establishment of endowments. These endowments, including 38 for teacher salary enhancements and another for Camp Kapaun's operations and scholarships, are aimed at ensuring the long-term success and growth of diocesan services.

Mike Wescott, director of development & planned giving, highlighted the range of estate gifts the diocese has received and the enthusiasm from families interested in legacy contributions. He remarked, “Especially with the new parish-based teacher endowments, parishioners have such strong affinities for their own parishes and schools, and we believe they will be attractive opportunities for greater support at a local level.”

Recently, an anonymous estate gift was pledged, aimed at supporting teacher salaries within the diocese, showcasing the ongoing generosity of donors. Wescott commented, “We continue to be amazed at the response we have seen throughout this campaign, and this particular gift benefiting our teachers is yet another example of people’s generous hearts.”

Planned gifts provide donors a chance to craft a legacy while also optimizing their financial benefits. Meier noted the importance of these gifts, saying, “Similar to the vision of those leaders in our diocese who came before us, we really have that same sense of hope with the Fully Alive! Campaign priorities.”

For more information on planned gifts or the campaign, interested parties are encouraged to contact the Diocese's Office of Development & Planned Giving.