The Shepherd Foundation

01/23/2026

A steady classroom. Familiar teachers. A sense of belonging.
Your generosity helps keep a Catholic education consistent for children when families are navigating job loss, illness, or other unexpected challenges.
Know someone who would love this mission? 💙 Tag them below or share this post to help us support families during moments of real need.

12/06/2025

10/12/2025

RSVP's not required but appreciated!

Join Us Saturday November 22, 2025 - Faith, Fellowship, & Catholic Education

10/10/2025

RSVP's not necessary but requested!

Join Us Saturday November 22, 2025 - Faith, Fellowship, & Catholic Education

10/01/2025

Please join The Shepherd Foundation for a fun night of pickleball. We will play a mixed doubles Round Robin format. Come d**k, drink and help us drive up awareness for a great cause! We will have great prizes, too! Individual registration is $75

The Shepherd Foundation makes Catholic K-12 education affordable for more families in the Archdiocese of Washington 501(c)(3) Charity

09/22/2025

You're invited! Join us at the the Annual Shepherd Foundation Mass & Reception on Saturday November 22, 2025 at 5 p.m. at St. Bartholomew's Catholic Church, Bethesda, MD. The Mass will be co-celebrated by Rev. Msgr. John Enzler and Pastor Mark Smith, with the inspiring voices of The Archbishop Carroll High School Choir.

For 38 years, The Shepherd Foundation has helped make Catholic education accessible by providing need-based scholarships to families across the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Washington. Your presence and support help us continue this mission -- making a Catholic education affordable for more students in our community. All are welcome.

04/23/2025

🌟 Join us for a Moms’ Happy Hour with a Mission! 🌟

Looking for a fun way to connect and make a difference?
Come to Alatri Brothers on May 13, 5–7 p.m. and support The Shepherd Foundation, which helps local families afford a Catholic education for their children.

🎟️ Tickets & info: theshepherdfoundation.org

✨ Your support helps open doors for kids from all backgrounds to thrive in our Catholic schools.

Can’t make it? Learn more or make a donation at theshepherdfoundation.org!

03/11/2025

Dear Friends of The Shepherd Foundation,

In 1986, Msgr. John Enzler, Rick Sullivan, Sr., my father, Dick Ridgway, along with Vinnie Delvecchio, Bruce Ellis, Jeff Ellis, Joe Horning, Tom Matan, Ray LaPlaca and George Reese founded The Shepherd Foundation with a heartfelt mission—to support families facing unexpected financial hardships so their children could continue receiving a Catholic education.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, The Shepherd Foundation has raised and donated over $14 Million and assisted over 10,000 students across 61 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Washington. Every dollar contributed goes directly to students’ tuition assistance, with 100% of administrative costs absorbed by The Shepherd Foundation Board. This is a testament to our shared commitment to ensuring that a Catholic education remains within reach for families in need.

After eight years leading The Shepherd Foundation, I am excited that Lizz Durante will now be leading our ever important efforts. Lizz is an Executive Vice President at PNI HCM, Inc. (formerly Payroll Network) and has been a dedicated member of The Shepherd Foundation Board for over 20 years. Her passion for our mission has been evident in the concerts and parish events she has organized to raise awareness and support for The Shepherd Foundation. I, along with the Board, have the utmost confidence in her leadership and look forward to seeing The Shepherd Foundation thrive under her guidance.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Your generosity has made a lasting impact, and with Lizz at the helm, I know that The Shepherd Foundation will make an even greater difference in the lives of so many amazing students and families in our community.

With immense gratitude,

Brian Ridgway