Development Executive Council

There was a time when I was reluctant to be a part of Development. I did not like to ask for funds. I did not like to talk about raising money. I preferred more mission-oriented activities. When did I change my attitude? Why did I change my attitude?

I remember participating in a meeting years ago when we were deciding whether or not to recommend a national collection for religious to the bishops. In the midst of a variety of arguments pro and con, one sister stated, "If we wish to sustain our mission we must ask for funds." That statement decided the question. Mission is the key.

Whether it is the library in Ghana, Africa, or hospice care in our infirmary in Dubuque, Iowa, mission is central to BVM identity. When we participate in development activities, we help the BVM congregation to realize our mission, and we help others to promote this mission. Development is mission.

Freedom, charity, education and justice - these are the core values of the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The way in which they are operationalized, energized and brought into our world through the prayers and actions of the BVMs is the reason why I continue to support them and their ministries. As an alumna of Mundelein College in Chicago and a graduate of Wahlert High School in Dubuque, I was gifted with a Catholic education imbued with personalized academic quality as well as with an invitational call to explore and deepen my faith, my sensitivity to systemic injustice, and the courage to pursue making this world into the Kingdom God envisions. I attribute the development of my God-given gifts to the BVMs and am committed to support them with financial, prayerful and social capital.

I am a relative newcomer to supporting the BVM community, or even having an awareness and appreciation for them. I did not attend one of their schools, or have ties to any particular sister until six or eight years ago. Serving on another charity's board with a BVM, I was drawn to her quiet humility, integrity and firm convictions. I gradually came to know a few more BVM sisters, and witnessed more and more of those qualities I admire and seek to emulate. I knew this was a group I wanted to learn more about.

We all have limitations on our time, talent and treasure. We all must decide where to use these resources to further the work of Our Lord here on earth. Supporting the BVMs allows me to further Christ's work with the poor and disenfranchised around the globe, as well as continuing to provide superior educational opportunities here in the United States. Their devotion to Christ, their integrity, their missions, the examples they provide in their daily lives...these are the reasons I support the BVMs. I invite you to discover your own reasons.

The mission of the BVMs is a mission my husband and I believe in and financially support. We admire their life work in communities around the world.

I was personally and positively influenced by my aunt, Sr. Carola Broderick, BVM. Her love of art, music and her faith were very positive influences on me. Over the years, I grew to love and appreciate the religious life she chose as well as members in her BVM community. Gratitude initially motivated my interest in the BVMs. Today my motivation includes both gratitude and legacy.

As an adult woman, the BVMs continue to inspire me by their courage and leadership living out their beliefs to be influencers and women leaders in matters related to: faith, social justice, education or health care. I feel more educated, curious, inspired, and have a greater sense of conviction, after I've spent time with BVMs!

We BVMs support our community fundraising efforts in a variety of ways. For me, a product of BVM education, serving on the Development Executive Council is a perfect fit in using my gifts to help our BVM community. Inviting BVM friends and families to become more a part of our ministry and mission through giving has made me aware of how much they want to be a part of us. Our donors are so grateful and appreciative of the BVMs who through ministry and prayer so positively influenced their lives.

The BVM Development Executive Council is composed of a group of generous men and women who have committed their time, expertise and treasure to assist us. Serving with Diane, her staff, and the Development Executive Council demonstrates to me how much our former students, our co-workers, our families and our friends want to remain an active, supportive part of BVM ministries and to assist the meeting the needs of our retired sisters.

The BVM core values of freedom, charity, justice and education represent the pillars of democracy of any vibrant, successful and meaningful society. These values allow the BVMs to work and make our world a better place. BVMs go unnoticed, yet they give so much of their time and talents. They are strong, dedicated, caring and nurturing women driven by a commitment to make the world a better place.

Personally, the BVMs support a cause that is near and dear to my heart, education. The Ghana library project is bringing education, joy and hope for the future for many young children and some adults who might not otherwise have this opportunity. Donate to or partner with the BVMs to preserve a rich history and maintain an energetic legacy in order to make the world a better place. This is an organization that you can support that will have an impact to your local community and the world at large. With their presence in the U.S. and around the world, the BVMs work at the grass roots to enhance the development of our society.

Support the BVMs and together we will make the world a better place.