21st Annual Crozier Gala Committee Inspired to Serve - Major Catholic Community Foundation Fundraiser Kicks Off

Phoenix, AZ, October 30, 2008 --(PR.com)-- The Valley’s premier Catholic social event, the 21st annual Crozier Gala will be held May 2, 2009, at the Arizona Biltmore. Raising funds to support the work of the Catholic Community Foundation, it is the result of long-term planning by a volunteer Gala Committee. The Committee gathered Sept. 24, 2008, at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix Pastoral Center to kick-off event preparations.

The day began with Mass led by His Excellency, Thomas J. Olmsted, Bishop of Phoenix. Held in the Piper Chapel— named for one of Phoenix’s most generous philanthropists, Virginia C. Piper—the Mass celebrated the event’s theme, A Call to Serve. Taking inspiration from the life of St. Katharine Drexel, the Foundation’s patron saint, the Gala is the only major fundraiser for the Foundation, which supports Catholic educational, charitable and spiritual ministries. Cindy Todare, 2009 Gala Chairwoman, comments “As St. Katharine took to heart the divine call of ‘freely you have received, freely give,’ so our Committee is embracing that spirit… we’re very excited about how the Gala truly helps those in need.”

Help is at the heart of the Gala; it is a celebration of philanthropy at its best. As such, the Gala will honor 90 year old Paradise Valley resident, Lorenza De Muro, noted Catholic philanthropist, whose generosity includes funding the construction of the chapel at Seton Catholic High School in Chandler, as well as other charitable causes.

The special combination of service and celebration uniquely defines the 2009 Crozier Gala, which promises to be both a highlight of the Valley’s social season and a beacon of hope for the wider community.

The Catholic Community Foundation was founded in 1983. It is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization whose mission is “To carry on the work of Christ by fostering philanthropy." Its purpose is to promote charitable giving from private sources through fundraising, special events, and special projects in support of grant and scholarship programs. With assets of more than $52 million, the Foundation specializes in endowment and grant fund management, as well as estate planning for the Catholic community.

###