As a student, teacher, and leader, Ryan Costello has witnessed firsthand the transformative impact Catholic schools have on families and communities, particularly those facing the highest need. “Historically, Catholic schools in America have been access points for underserved families who desire to create as much opportunity as possible for their children,” Ryan explains. “It is vital that Catholic schools cling to their original mission to serve ALL students, especially those with the highest need.”

Seeing the Impact Firsthand

Ryan is not only a Catholic school alumnus but also taught at St. John Vianney Catholic School and Bourgade Catholic High School working firsthand with Catholic Education Arizona scholarship recipients. “My vocation as a husband and teacher, my group of friends, and, most importantly, my relationship with Jesus are all because of my time in Catholic schools,” he says.

“I have seen the incredible impact these scholarships have on schools, families, and students,” Ryan adds. “From revitalizing communities like St. John Vianney school— which grew from a small neighborhood school which consistently struggled with enrollment and finances—to one of the largest and most vibrant ministries in the Diocese of Phoenix.” Helping families access Catholic education changes communities and creates our future leaders. “There are families who share their transformation, many who now pray together, parents who are now married in the Church, children who have received sacraments, to students who have persisted to some of the most competitive colleges and careers.”

Supporting Underserved Students Through Monthly Giving

In 2012, Ryan’s commitment to this mission led him to support Catholic Education Arizona with his Arizona Individual Tax Credit. “With all that good, need still exists,” Ryan adds, “There are still families who cannot choose the education they desire for their children.” Last year, Ryan took the next step in his philanthropic journey and began supporting underserved students with monthly donations to Changing Lives with Legacy.

“My experience in Catholic schools has shown the deep need in some families and communities even after tax credit funds have been distributed,” Ryan says. “A donation to Changing Lives with Legacy gets us one step closer to providing families with the same graces, blessings, and opportunities I have seen throughout my career,” he shares.

“Having met the Changing Lives with Legacy team through Miranda, I felt confident I was entrusting a donation to good stewards who would serve these families and communities faithfully,” he says.

Share Your Story

Are you an Arizona Corporate or Individual Tax Credit Contributor or a Changing Lives with Legacy Donor? We want to hear your story and know why you believe Catholic Education Arizona is valuable. To tell us your story, contact legacy@ceaz.org or call (602) 218-6542.

To learn more about traditional donations to Changing Lives with Legacy, visit MyImpact.CatholicEducationArizona.org