The Catholic Foundation of Central Florida

06/17/2026

Please join us in welcoming M. Lisa Amoroso, CTFA, to The Catholic Foundation’s Planned Giving Advisory Council.

With more than 30 years of experience as a trust advisor, Lisa brings extensive expertise in fiduciary services, wealth preservation, and estate planning. Throughout her career, she has helped individuals and families navigate important financial decisions while working to achieve their long-term goals.

Lisa currently serves as a key fiduciary resource at Cypress and is actively involved in the estate planning community through her service with the Central Florida Estate Planning Council and the Orlando Estate Planning Discussion Group.

We are grateful for the knowledge and experience she brings to our Council as we continue supporting donors in creating meaningful and lasting legacies.

Learn more about Lisa and our Planned Giving Advisory Council: https://cfocf.org/welcomenewpgacmembermlisaamoroso/

06/12/2026

Faces of Philanthropy Friday: Meet Johnny Svajko

We’re excited to spotlight Johnny Svajko, CPA, a member of our Planned Giving Advisory Council and an active parishioner within the Diocese of Orlando community.

As a CPA with Olivari & Associates, Johnny specializes in tax management for individuals, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations. His professional experience, combined with a deep commitment to his faith, has shaped his belief that financial success and generosity go hand in hand.

“I’ve come to realize just how deeply so many of us are blessed by both our faith and our financial success,” Johnny shares. “With that success comes a meaningful obligation to step up and be a blessing to others.”

Johnny is passionate about helping people understand that planned giving is about more than future estate gifts, it’s also an opportunity to experience the joy of making an impact today. He values the Foundation’s role in helping donors put their faith into action and support ministries throughout our community.

Read Johnny’s full Faces of Philanthropy Q&A and discover what inspires his heart for giving: https://cfocf.org/staff-group/fop/

06/12/2026

This month, eight men from across the Diocese of Orlando were ordained to the Permanent Diaconate, answering God's call to a life of service, faith, and ministry.

Deacons play a vital role in our diocesan community serving at the altar, proclaiming the Gospel, accompanying families through life's joys and challenges, and bringing Christ's love to those most in need. Their ministry strengthens our parishes and extends the Church's mission throughout Central Florida.

In a recent Florida Catholic article, these newly ordained deacons share their journeys of discernment, the experiences that shaped their vocations, and their desire to serve God's people with compassion and humility. We invite you to read their inspiring stories and join us in praying for these men, their wives, and their families as they begin this new chapter of ministry.

Learn more and support the future of the Permanent Diaconate in our diocese: https://cfocf.org/diaconatefund/

Read the full article: https://www.thefloridacatholic.org/eedition/orlando/page-02/page_b0195e8e-f01c-53ec-b3ab-381f85fc539e.html?utm_source=thefloridacatholic.org&utm_campaign=%2Fnewsletter%2Foptimize%2Feedition%2Forlando%2F%3F-dc%3D1779469213&utm_medium=email&utm_content=read%20more&cid=1OXtlCVhryFansxT8xUM5WAqJb3gaMEQiQ7alqbFdeW8djnhDrZ7Ft6J3mBCZZt-8VSvVmU4iwu-LnPYpYWHv9XckbzglPXzeFyd0vvHU7k4=

06/10/2026

Our June Newsletter is filled with stories of impact, stewardship, and opportunities to grow in faithful giving.

This month, we introduce our new Ways to Give series highlighting how donating appreciated stock can help maximize your charitable impact. We also share grant news, introduce our newest Planned Giving Advisory Council member, and continue our Hearts of Philanthropy series.

You'll also find highlights from the Diocese of Orlando's Diaconate Ordination, a link to watch tomorrow's Mass of Consecration, an invitation to participate in the 2026 WPGC Grant Voting, and insights from Concord Advisory Group.

Subscribe to join our community and never miss an update. Read the full June Newsletter at: https://cfocf.org/newsletters/

06/05/2026

Generosity often begins with the lessons we learn at home.

In this edition of Hearts of Philanthropy, a Women’s Philanthropic Giving Circle member and Donor Advised Fundholder reflects on the lifelong influence of her mother, who taught her that every act of kindness is an opportunity to serve Christ in others.

Through the WPGC and her Catholic DAF, she has found meaningful ways to live out that calling while supporting ministries and organizations throughout our community. Her story is a beautiful reminder that when individuals come together in faith and generosity, small gifts can grow into something far greater.

Read the full Hearts of Philanthropy Q&A and learn how collective philanthropy and intentional giving can help create lasting impact: https://cfocf.org/heartsofphilanthropy/

06/05/2026

We are grateful to support Catholic Charities of Central Florida's Agape Mission Market at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lake Wales through a $10,000 distribution from The Catholic Foundation's Mercy Fund.

Made possible through the generosity of our Board of Directors and faithful donors, the Mercy Fund supports Catholic Charities’ ability to respond to increased needs of the people of God in the Diocese of Orlando This grant will help replenish the Mission Market's pantry with essential food items, ensuring they can continue serving neighbors with dignity, compassion, and care.

This fiscal year, Holy Spirit's Agape Mission Market has served over 350 households and 1,234 individuals, distributing nearly 8,000 pounds of food each month with the help of 72 dedicated volunteers. This funding will help sustain their food supply through the end of 2026 as they work to secure long-term support for this vital ministry.

Learn more about the Mercy Fund: https://cfocf.org/mercyfund/

06/04/2026

Through our partnership with Concord Advisory Group, we remain committed to investment strategies that balance strong performance with faithful stewardship.

May's Market Highlights explore how rising interest rates can affect financial obligations and long-term planning. While higher rates often create challenges for borrowers, they can also reduce the present value of future liabilities, improving financial positioning for organizations and investors alike.

Visit the link to read more about how changing interest rate environments may influence financial planning and investment decisions: https://cfocf.org/concordadvisorygroupjune2026markethighlights/

06/03/2026

The Women’s Philanthropic Giving Circle (WPGC) brings women together in faith, generosity, and purpose to make a meaningful impact throughout Central Florida.

As a member, you'll have the opportunity to learn about local nonprofit organizations and participate in the grantmaking process that helps support their important work.

Don't miss your chance to participate in the first round of grant voting. Submit your membership form by June 15 and join us as we continue to grow the impact of collective philanthropy in our community.

Learn more: https://cfocf.org/wpgcmembership/

Women's Philanthropic Giving Circle Membership VideoGet more infor...

05/29/2026

Faces of Philanthropy Friday: Meet Charlie Van Patten

We’re excited to spotlight Charlie Van Patten, JD, CAP®, a member of our Planned Giving Advisory Council and a parishioner at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church.

As an associate attorney with ShuffieldLowman, Charlie supports clients in estate planning, helping them navigate important decisions with clarity and confidence. With more than a decade of experience in charitable planned giving, he is passionate about helping individuals and families align their estate plans with their philanthropic goals.

“Planned giving provides avenues for people to generously and creatively support the ministries that have impacted their lives,” Charlie shares.

Having previously served as Director of Philanthropy at The Catholic Foundation, Charlie values the opportunity to remain connected to its mission through his role on the PGAC. He believes thoughtful planning can help maximize impact while supporting the Church and community for generations to come.

Read Charlie’s full Faces of Philanthropy Q&A and discover what inspires his heart for giving: https://cfocf.org/staff-group/fop/

05/28/2026

In this Philanthropy Moment, Madelyn W**d, CFRE, CAP®, President & CEO, reflects on the importance of sharing your story and values as part of your legacy.

Through thoughtful reflection, she highlights how what we pass on extends beyond financial gifts to include faith, purpose, and the values that define us.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/Jfsj9YZAplo?si=3qG0kNvJtSvw0Czw

Madelyn W**d, CFRE, CAP® President & CEO discusses: Tell Your Famil...