Giving to CGSUSA

Our Story

Through their joy, their wonder and awe, their capacity for love and prayer, and their radical simplicity, they offer us adults a glimpse of what it means to fall in love with God. This has been the work of CGSUSA for over 40 years: to advocate for the child’s joy.

Our Impact

Each year, CGSUSA provides formation courses, publishes new books for continued study and contemplation, and continues to support catechists and religious leaders across the nation and the world in helping children find their own path to God’s love.

• • We are a membership association of over 5,000 active members.
  • Our catechists serve an estimated 140,000 children in over 6,500 atria in churches, schools and independent Catechesis of the Good Shepherd ministries across the US and the world.
  • We are offering over 300 formation courses a year, led or co-led by more than 150 CGSUSA Formation Leaders.
  • Since 2018, almost 9,000 catechists have received CGS catechist certificates, averaging approximately 1,800 catechists formed in our method each year.
  • CGS catechists volunteer an estimated 36,000 hours per month serving the religious potential of children with love and joy.

Our Giving Priorities

Our mission is to support catechists, parents, and others in the Church and beyond, as they grow in their understanding of the religious potential of children. In fiscal year (July 1-June 30) 2023-2024, 281 donors gave $196,500 to CGSUSA’s Annual Appeal. We use philanthropic support to enhance our impact in the following areas:

• • Catechist Formation
  • Technology
  • Formation Leader Discernment, Training and Continuing Education
  • Outreach and Atrium Development
  • Infant/Toddler Formation
  • International Resources and Support for Religious Communities
  • Publications, Events and Educational Resources
  • Mustard Seed Growth (support to dioceses, regional groups, etc.)

Our Leadership 

It takes an experienced, dedicated team to harness the power of philanthropy to drive meaningful change. We draw on a deep commitment to the religious potential of children, which drives us to advocate for their spiritual needs. Please contact Erin Miller, Stewardship Coordinator, for information today.