The St. Joseph School Foundation was established on July 10, 1991, with the full support of the St. Joseph Church Finance Committee. Its creation was deemed essential to ensure the future operations and stability of St. Joseph School.
The Foundation began with a dedicated five-member Board of Directors: Ray Widmer, Bill Marek, Jim Boss, Dan Roling, and Diane Bennett. Guiding the effort were Father Brendan Griffey, Pastor of St. Joseph Church, and Sister Katherine Mary Westhues, Principal of St. Joseph School at the time—both of whom played key roles in the Foundation’s formation and early success.
The board met weekly to draft by-laws and work closely with legal counsel to meet all state and federal requirements. Once these were completed, the by-laws and informational pamphlets were printed and distributed, officially establishing the Foundation’s structure and mission.
To build a strong financial base, the board explored many fundraising avenues—including memorials, Lord’s Acre offerings, wills, life insurance policies, certificates of deposit, special gifts, and endowments. Many parishioners still fondly remember the Prime Rib Dinners, hosted by Foundation members, their families, and friends. Church organizations were encouraged to sponsor their own fundraising projects, and letters were mailed to alumni seeking their support.
Each October, the Foundation continues its annual membership drive and fundraiser—a tradition that remains vital to the ongoing success of St. Joseph School. Thanks to the dedication and generosity of its supporters, the Foundation has grown to include more than 200 members.
Today, the Foundation invests all funds received, using the earned interest to support the school’s ongoing needs—covering repairs, building maintenance, utilities, insurance, and the purchase of books.
The purpose of the St. Joseph School Foundation is clear and enduring:
To ensure the continued vitality of our Catholic school and to provide a lasting source of quality education for the children of our parish and community.