This week, the timeless belief that seeing is believing took center stage as donors of the Catholic Education Foundation received a firsthand glimpse of the profound impact of their generosity.

“Being able to see where the money goes and how it helps was a really special experience,” says Chris Phelan, CEF supporter and member of Curé of Ars parish in Leawood.

Holy Name of Jesus Catholic School, located on Southwest Boulevard in Kansas City, KS, welcomed Phelan and other CEF donors and Board members on Wednesday, April 17, for a special school tour. Beginning with an all-school Mass, this event highlighted the ways in which CEF scholarships support the success of students and our Catholic schools.

After touring the school, Holy Name principal Randy Smith spoke to guests about the challenges and celebrations that students and the Holy Name community have experienced.

Smith shared that many of Holy Name’s students have difficult home lives, some with a parent who is currently incarcerated or who have lost a sibling due to gun violence or illegal drugs.

“They’re safe here and part of our Holy Name family," says Smith. “Kids need Catholic schools. If it wasn’t for CEF scholarships, many students wouldn’t be at Holy Name.”

With just 129 students enrolled in preschool through 8th grade, Smith emphasized that although Holy Name is small, its community is mighty.

One of four CEF-supported schools in Wyandotte County, Holy Name is expecting enrollment to increase for the fifth consecutive year, as students transfer from Christ the King Catholic School in Kansas City, KS, which recently announced its decision to close at the end of this academic year.

“It was heartbreaking news for many people, including the CEF staff and board members,” says Vincent Anch, CEF Executive Director.

CEF is working closely with the Archdiocese’s Catholic Schools Office and families to ensure that every student from Christ the King can transfer their CEF scholarships to whichever school they choose. Furthermore, the Catholic Education Foundation is increasing scholarship awards for all CEF students.

“We know that CEF funding is helping to keep several schools open,” adds Anch. “Our goal is to help schools move from just surviving to thriving.”

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