The Diocese of Arlington was recognized recently by the International Catholic Stewardship Council for its outstanding fundraising efforts. The organization presented Bob Mueller, executive director of development, and Jeanne Combos, director of annual appeal programs, with the Total Annual Appeal Effort Award for Excellence Oct. 3 at its 60th annual conference in Anaheim, Calif. The award recognizes the best total program for a diocesan annual appeal.
“I extend my sincere congratulations to Bob Mueller and Jeanne Combos and their colleagues in the Office of Development, as this award is a reflection of their collective talents and abilities,” said Bishop
Michael F. Burbidge. “This great honor from their national peers is a recognition of the team’s dedication and service to lead a successful Bishop’s Lenten Appeal in the Diocese of Arlington, which enables us to continue serving through many ministries, especially to those most in need.”
Mueller said that receiving the award was an honor for the diocese, Bishop Burbidge, diocesan priests and parish staff, as well as a personal highlight for him and Combos, who has led program implementation of the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal for 17 years. The BLA was first run in 1977 as a means to raise money to annually fund the mission of the diocese. This year, approximately 35,000 donors have made a gift.
“This award recognizes the extensive work that goes into the BLA by all of these people and the donors in our diocese who so generously respond,” Mueller said. “It is a privilege to work for our church and see the faith of our parishioners put into action through over 40 different programs and ministries that are funded through the BLA.”
