“Early education is the foundation for building life-long professional, personal, and skills growth,” says Changing Lives with Legacy donor Judy Pendergast.
Judy knows the value of a Catholic education because she’s lived it. She attended a Catholic grade school from 5th through 8th grade. She later graduated from a Catholic nursing program at Marian College, earning her Juris Doctor degree from Marquette University School of Law. Though financial challenges prevented her from attending Catholic high school, the strength of her Catholic education stayed with her throughout her life, and today, she’s paying it forward.
For years, Judy contributed to Catholic Education Arizona through the Arizona Individual Tax Credit. But she felt called to do more.
“I receive a tax credit for my contribution, and it is a blessing for both the families and the donors. I choose to make a donation in addition because I want to make a true donation. I consider it a payback for all the benefits I have received as a result of my Catholic education.”
Judy now gives a monthly donation beyond the tax credit to help underserved families access affordable Catholic education.
“I want to be part of the program that assists families who need help providing this quality, faith-based education,” she says. “Catholic education provides children with both academic excellence and the Catholic values that guide a meaningful life. All children should be able to access this, regardless of their financial situation.”
“These children are our future,” she remarks. We owe them a quality education to support them throughout their lives. But sadly, not all families have access to a Catholic education. A donation, small or large, will provide the assistance they need.”
Share Your Story
Are you a supporter of Changing Lives with Legacy? 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.
