Archdiocese of America launches $250,000 matching grant program for parishes

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America has opened applications for its new Parish Planned Giving Matching Grant program, following a commitment made by Archbishop Elpidophoros of America at the 48th Biennial Clergy-Laity Congress.

The program will initially provide ten grants of $25,000, totaling $250,000, with the support of the Leadership 100 Endowment Fund. The grants are intended to help parishes strengthen their long-term financial sustainability by establishing dedicated endowments and encouraging planned gifts.

Priority during the first round will be given to parishes that have attended one of the ten regional workshops being held across the Archdiocese this year. Applicants will be asked to explain how their planned-giving program was established, how it will support the parish’s long-term needs, and how they intend to match the grant amount.

The initiative responds to findings from a CARA survey, in which 62% of Parish Council presidents identified financial generosity, sustainability, stewardship strategies, and supporting materials as areas requiring improvement in their parishes.

As part of this broader effort, Archdiocesan programs relating to stewardship,…