catholic financial life member magazine, fall 2015

MemberMAGAZINECatholic Financial Life

FALL 2015

Inside this issue: President’s Message / Mensaje del Presidente

What type of insurance should families consider? ¿Qué tipo de seguro deben considerar las familias?

2 Catholic Financial Life Fall 2015

Cultivate an Attitude of GratitudeWhen you think of Thanksgiving, what images come to mind — roast turkey, pumpkin pie, football or perhaps the Thanksgiving Day Parade? While most of these things go hand-in-hand with long-standing family traditions, it’s important not to forget the essence of Thanksgiving — the actual giving of thanks.

Gratitude magnifies our experience of the good things in life, enabling us to enjoy them more thoroughly. It also helps us to endure the hard things in life with dignity, perhaps even with humor. The Thanksgiving season also presents an opportunity to express our gratitude to those important in our lives — to be thankful for our family, friends, colleagues, and the talents we share with one another.

We recently celebrated our Triennial Convention with nearly 700 delegates and guests present, and I was reminded about how grateful I am:

I am grateful for… the outpouring of support for our national partner, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, shown at the 8th Annual Friends of the Poor Run/Walk.

I am grateful for… our delegates’ commitment to our Society’s fraternal governance process — a process that elects directors from among the membership in order to provide fiduciary oversight and strategic guidance.

I am grateful for… the opportunity to lead our Society and to continue to fulfill our mission of serving God through serving others; providing financial security; and enhancing the quality of life of our members and their communities.

You can read more about the convention beginning on page 6 of this magazine.

Expressing heartfelt gratitude to God and others is one of life’s greatest joys. It’s the true purpose of Thanksgiving, and I thank God every day for the blessings He has shared with our fraternal Society!

Fraternally,

William R. O’Toole President and CEO [email protected] 800-927-2547

President’s Message

President & CEO Bill O’Toole (right) with Wisconsin Deputy Commissioner of Insurance Dan Schwartzer (left). Schwartzer was one of several dignitaries that addressed delegates at the convention.

“Expressing heartfelt gratitude to God and others is one of life’s greatest joys.”

read more on the web catholicfinanciallife.org

(L to R) Daniel Guerino, Ken Boivin and Janet Guerino participate in the Society of St. Vincent de Paul Friends of the Poor Walk during the Catholic Financial Life Convention.

Our Mission: Catholic Financial Life, a faith-based membership organization, puts Catholic values in action by: serving God through serving others; providing financial security; and enhancing quality of life.

About the cover.

Board of DirectorsExecutive Officers

William R. O’Toole, Pleasant Prairie, Wis.President and Chief Executive Officer

Jeff Tilley, Franklin, Wis. Secretary and Chief Financial Officer

Elected Directors

Mary Baker, Wauwatosa, Wis.Carla C. Breunig, Menomonee Falls, Wis.Robert Dippold, Maria Stein, OhioDennis Kabat, New Holstein, Wis.John Kenawell, St. Louis, Mo.Patrick J. Murphy, Milwaukee, Wis.Paul B. Pinsonnault, North Attleboro, Mass.David Singer, Kenosha, Wis.Mike Stivoric, Pewaukee, Wis.Thomas VanHimbergen, Mequon, Wis.Arthur Wigchers, Brookfield, Wis.

Appointed Director

Jay Mack, Hartland, Wis.

Spiritual Director

Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki, Milwaukee, Wis.

Catholic Financial Life Magazine is the official publication of Catholic Financial Life, 1100 West Wells Street, P.O. Box 3211, Milwaukee, WI 53201-3211.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Catholic Financial Life Magazine, Catholic Financial Life, 1100 W. Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233. Phone: 414-273-6266 or 800-927-2547.

Copyright © 2015 Catholic Financial Life. All rights reserved.

MemberMAGAZINECatholic Financial Life

Fall 2015, Volume 6, Issue 3

Features 6 Convention Coverage Delegates and guests gather

for the 2015 Triennial Convention

9 Archbishop Listecki Servant of the Poor Award Winners Announced

Members who embody our mission of service

10 Board of Directors Elected for Three-Year Term

Five new members to join the board

12 SVdP Friends of the Poor Run/Walk

Hundreds gather to support those living in poverty

14 Bylaw Changes Update Unanimous approval

by delegates

DEPARTMENTS

5 A Message From Our Spiritual Director

Un mensaje de nuestro director espiritual

16 A Teachable Moment: What type of insurance should families consider?

¿Qué tipo de seguro deben considerar las familias?

18 Serving God by Serving Others: Members Giving Back

22 It’s all About ME (Member Experiences): An Active Fun-Filled Summer for Members!


Cultivar sentimientos de gratitudCuando se piensa en el día de Acción de Gracias ¿qué imágenes se le vienen a la mente: pavo asado, pastel de calabaza, fútbol americano o tal vez el desfile del día de Acción de Gracias? Mientras la mayoría de estas cosas se juntan con antiguas tradiciones familiares, es importante no olvidar el espíritu del Día de Acción de Gracias: es decir, el acto mismo de agradecer.

La gratitud amplía nuestra experiencia de todas las cosas buenas de la vida y deja que también las disfrutemos completamente. Además la gratitud nos ayuda a enfrentar las cosas difíciles de la vida, tal vez con un poco más de humor. La temporada del Día de Acción de Gracias nos presenta una oportunidad para expresar nuestra gratitud a las personas más importantes en nuestras vidas: para darle gracias a Dios por nuestra familia, por los amigos, colegas y los talentos que compartimos el uno con el otro.

Acabamos de celebrar la Convención Trienal con la participación de casi 700 delegados e invitados, todo lo cual me hizo recordar lo agradecido que estoy:

Estoy agradecido por: las muchas muestras de apoyo de nuestro socio nacional, La Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul, que se demostró en la Octava Marcha de Los amigos de los pobres.

Estoy agradecido por: la dedicación de todos los delegados en el proceso fraternal de gobierno de nuestra sociedad, un proceso en donde se eligen directores entre los socios para aportar supervisión fiduciaria y dirección estratégica.

Estoy agradecido por: la oportunidad que se me ha dado para dirigir nuestra Sociedad y continuar cumpliendo con nuestra misión de servir a Dios al servir a los demás; aportando seguridad financiera; y mejorando la calidad de vida de nuestros socios.

Se pueden leer más detalles sobre la Convención en la página 6 de esta revista.

Expresar nuestro agradecimiento de corazón a Dios y a los demás es una de las mejores alegrías de la vida. Es realmente el espíritu de Acción de Gracias, y yo le doy gracias a Dios por las bendiciones que ha compartido con nuestra sociedad.

Filialmente,

William R. O’Toole Presidente & Director Ejecutivo [email protected] 800-927-2547

Mensaje del Presidente

“Expresar nuestro agradecimiento de corazón a Dios y a los demás es una de las mejores alegrías de la vida.”

El presidente y director ejecutivo, Bill O’Toole (al lado izquierdo) y los consejeros Eleazar López y Gabe Rivera preparan almuerzo en el Picnic de Apreciación de Socios del Capítulo 110 Milwaukee Central.


Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As members of Catholic Financial Life, we share our Catholic faith as a common bond. Recently over 700 members gathered for the Triennial Convention of Catholic Financial Life. Gatherings like our convention help to ignite that faith, to energize us about what it means to be Catholic. That same weekend, I had the pleasure of traveling to Washington, D.C., for the Pope’s U.S. visit.

Pope Francis has called for a spiritual renewal of both the Church and the family. While he was in the U. S., the Holy Father participated in the World

Meeting of Families. The focus of that gathering was to strengthen the bond between families and to promote the crucial role of marriage and family in society.

“Faith” and “Family” are among the core values held by Catholic Financial Life. With our many local chapters and volunteers, our organization is in a good position to help spread the message of this renewal as called for by Pope Francis. I applaud all members of Catholic Financial Life for actively living your faith and passing on your values to the next generation of members.

Your work with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and Catholic Relief Services, and your support for parishes and schools strengthen both faith and families. You profess your faith through action, inspiring others to do likewise.

During this Thanksgiving season, we take time to appreciate the many blessings God has given. I am grateful for the work that you do on behalf of those in need. Thank you for truly being disciples and boldly living your faith!

I wish you and your family a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. God bless!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Jerome E. Listecki Archbishop of Milwaukee

Queridos hermanos y hermanas en CristoComo miembros de Catholic Financial Life, compartimos la fe católica como un vínculo común. Recientemente más de 700 miembros se reunieron para la Convención Trienal de Catholic Life Financial. Reuniones como la nuestra ayudan a encender la fe y nos animan a entender lo que significa ser católico. Ese mismo fin de semana, tuve el placer de viajar a Washington D.C. para la venida del Papa a los Estados Unidos.

El Papa Francisco ha pedido una renovación espiritual de la Iglesia y de la familia. Durante su visita en los Estados Unidos, el Santo Padre participó en el Encuentro Mundial de las Familias. El objetivo de esa reunión fue fortalecer el vínculo entre las familias y promover el papel fundamental del matrimonio y la familia en la sociedad.

La “fe” y la “familia” son algunos de los valores principales de Catholic Financial Life. Mediante nuestros numerosos capítulos y voluntarios locales, nuestra organización se encuentra en una buena posición para ayudar a difundir el mensaje de esta renovación como el Santo Papa lo ha pedido. Aplaudo a todos los miembros de Catholic Financial Life que viven su fe activamente y transmiten sus valores a la siguiente generación de miembros.

Su trabajo con la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul y Catholic Relief Services, su apoyo a las parroquias y las escuelas fortalecen la fe y las familias. Ustedes profesan su fe a través de la acción e inspiran a los demás a hacer lo mismo.

Durante esta temporada de Acción de Gracias, tomamos el tiempo para apreciar las muchas bendiciones que Dios nos ha otorgado. Estoy muy agradecido por las obras que hacen en nombre de los necesitados. ¡Gracias por ser verdaderos discípulos y por vivir su fe con valentía!

Les deseo una maravillosa celebración de Acción de Gracias a ustedes y a sus familias. ¡Dios les bendiga!

Sinceramente en Cristo

A MESSAGE FROM OUR SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR

Call it a business meeting, a celebration of fraternalism, or simply a family reunion, the Catholic Financial Life Triennial Convention, as described by its delegates and guests, is most certainly the tangible proof of our Society’s democracy in action. Gathering in Milwaukee from September 25-27, men and women representing 155 chapters from 17 states fulfilled their responsibility as delegates by electing the board of directors and reviewing Society bylaws. It is a form of corporate governance dating back to the our founding in 1868 and central to our fraternal structure. The convention was visible proof of our members’ commitment to the spirit of Catholic Financial Life, as a financially strong, faith-filled and family-friendly organization.

The convention stepped off, so to speak, on the campus of Marquette University with nearly 400 participants helping to raise funds and awareness for the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul during the annual Friends of the Poor Run/Walk. You can read more about the run/walk on pages 12-13.

Our national cause of helping the poor was also the focus of the early part of Friday night’s celebration at the Wisconsin Center. Five dedicated member volunteers were presented with the Archbishop Listecki Servant of the Poor Award. Each received a monetary donation to their local Saint Vincent de Paul Conference or Council and a stunning framed lithograph highlighting the life of Saint Vincent de Paul created by the Rev. Anthony Brankin. (See story on page 9 for biographies of the recipients.)

In keeping with Friday evening’s theme, “All-American Night,” the Wisconsin Center featured displays representing our four major regions: New England, Midwest, and Southwest, as well as the Society’s hometown of Milwaukee. Delegates and guests, numbering nearly 700, were also treated to commemorative photos featuring poses before either a virtual Mount Rushmore, Golden Gate Bridge, or the U.S. Capitol. Against the musical backdrop of jazz, bluegrass and barbershop, delegates enjoyed a cavalcade of sports from golf and hockey to football and baseball

while meeting the board nominees in a relaxed atmosphere.

On Saturday morning, the business session convened and delegates elected the new Board of Directors, approved committee reports and voted on changes to the bylaws. President & CEO Bill O’Toole and Secretary & CFO Jeff Tilley delivered a “State of the Society” while Senior Vice President John Borgen presented an overview of the newest member programs and benefits to be unveiled in 2016. Due to the Pope’s U.S. visit, Cardinal Dolan of New York and Archbishop Listecki of Milwaukee sent their video greetings, as they were both meeting with His Holiness on the East Coast.

The afternoon session highlighted the two major aspects of the Society: faith and finance. The story of today’s Catholic evangelization was eloquently presented by the Rev. John Burns, a priest in the Milwaukee Archdiocese. Marilyn Capelli Dimitroff, certified financial planner, presented the do’s and don’ts of financial preparedness.

Catholic Financial Life 2015 Triennial Convention


2015


Later in the day, the Most Rev. Louis E. Gelineau, bishop emeritus of Providence, R.I., was the principal celebrant at a Mass concelebrated with several chapter spiritual directors. His homily focused on how the Society’s volunteers and members are a beacon of hope to the world. Catholic musician and member Michael James Mette and his family provided the music for Mass.

Outgoing board members were honored during Saturday night’s banquet and

comedian Dennis Regan closed out the festivities.

The delegates returned home on Sunday motivated more fully to live the Society’s mission. They left optimistic by the Society’s plans to build an even stronger and more dynamic future, and confident in the Society’s financial and fraternal commitment to our members and the parishes and communities in which they live and serve.

CONVENTION2015


CONVENTION2015

Photo Captions:

1. Wisconsin Deputy Commissioner of Insurance, Dan Schwartzer 2. President & CEO Bill O’Toole and Secretary & CFO Jeff Tilley 3. Senior Vice President & Convention Co-Chair John Borgen 4. President & CEO Bill O’Toole greets U.S. Representative Gwen Moore. 5. U.S. Senator Ron Johnson 6. Marilyn Capelli Dimitroff, CFP 7. American Fraternal Alliance President and CEO Joe Annotti 8. Father Jim Burns 9. U.S. Represen-tative Glenn Grothman 10. Board Chair Robert Dippold

1 1 2

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During the Triennial Convention, President & CEO Bill O’Toole and National Council of the United States SVdP CEO, David Barringer recognized the following members as recipients of the 2015 Archbishop Listecki Servant of the Poor Award.

Jim and Bernie Hafenstein – Chapter 48, Beaver Dam, Wis. In June 1984, a tornado ripped through Jim and Bernie Hafenstein’s yard, destroying their home. With four young children and twins on the way, they turned to SVdP for assistance. SVdP helped rebuild their home and provided support for their growing family. Jim and Bernie vowed they would give back to SVdP in the future. Since 2011, Jim has been president of the SVdP council in Beaver Dam. When he took this position, the local SVdP store had less than 10 regular volunteers and was struggling financially. He rallied volunteers and donors for a new building. The new facility, with 40 regular volunteers, just celebrated its one-year anniversary. Bernie, who volunteers at the store, assists workers with special needs. The Hafenstein’s niece Kate Meyer states, “Jim and Bernie vowed to give back when they could, and our community is better because they did.”

Valeria Kempf – Chapter 223, St. Anna, Wis. Valeria Kempf is a member of the committee that works with the SVdP meal program and volunteers at the local SVdP store in Kiel, Wis. She coordinates all of the volunteers from Chapter 223 and organizes a Thanksgiving collection for SVdP at her parish. Her volunteer hours for SVdP have also earned matching funds from Catholic Financial Life. Valeria’s concern for the poor reaches far beyond her local community. As a member of the St. Ann Mission group, Valeria helps make patchwork quilts using old clothes donated to the SVdP store that cannot be sold. These quilts are added to care packages that are sent out to people in need all over the world.

Ruth Przybylski – Chapter WI52, Milwaukee, Wis.Ruth Przybylski has coordinated the monthly meal program team from Chapter WI52 and St. Matthew’s Parish in Oak Creek, Wis., since 2005. Ruth’s tasks include recruiting and scheduling volunteers, purchasing and delivering food to volunteer cooks, picking up completed meals, and helping to serve hundreds of guests at the meal program site on Milwaukee’s south side. Ruth has been a Vincentian since the 1960s and is a strong supporter of her parish conference. As Chapter WI52 Secretary/Treasurer Bruce Bultman states, “It is the Vincentian Spirit which permeates all she does.” Meal Site Coordinator Angela Wright also says, “Ruth has truly been a blessing to our meal ministry.”

Gerald Tilot – Chapter 288, Sugarbush/Luxemburg, Wis.Gerald Tilot began volunteering with SVdP in 1983, delivering food and providing other services to families in need. Following his retirement, he decided to donate his time to a local SVdP store, along with home visits as a Vincentian. To this day, Gerald and his wife, Marcella, volunteer more than 600 hours of service to SVdP each year. At the store in Green Bay alone, Gerald has clocked over 4,000 hours of volunteer time. According to East Store Manager Walter Hobbs, “Jerry is very inspiring to me and embodies the essence of what I feel a dedicated volunteer should be.” In his own words, Gerald says, “Occasionally I’m asked if I get paid for working in the store. I tell them no, that I’m giving back for blessings received and I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

Ruth Anne White – Chapter 40, Waukesha, Wis. Ruth Anne White has been secretary of the SVdP St. William’s Parish Conference for over 12 years. In addition to volunteering at the local SVdP store and food pantry, Ruth has also made home visits and coordinated efforts to assist many families in need. Among all that she does for SVdP, perhaps the most notable is the work she has done with her husband, PJ, to organize the annual Friends of the Poor Walk at her parish. Eight years ago, when they coordinated the first walk, the event raised $1,500. This past year, due to Ruth Anne’s tireless dedication, along with some new and innovative ideas, the walk made over $35,000 for SVdP. “She is a true Vincentian,” says Julie McIntyre, Executive Director at SVdP Waukesha County, “she walks the talk, lives every day to serve God, her family, neighbors, friends, and especially people in need.”

2015 Archbishop Listecki Servant of the Poor Awards


(Left to Right) SVdP CEO David Barringer with Servant of the Poor Award Winners Gerald Tilot, Ruth Przybylski, Ruth Anne White, Valeria Kempf, Bernie and Jim Hafenstein; and President & CEO Bill O’Toole.


Your Board of Directors Six board members were re-elected to the board and five new board members were elected to serve three-year terms at the Triennial Council Convention.

The five newly elected board members are Allan Lorge, Chapter 70, Belgium, Wis.; Jay Mack, Chapter 272, Lake Country, Wis.; Lisa Mick, Chapter 19, Fond du Lac, Wis.; Susan Obermiller, Chapter 307, Eaton, Wis.; and Marion Strauss, Chapter 318, Mequon/Cedarburg, Wis. In addition, Kristine Rappé, Chapter 89, Lakeside, Wis., will serve as an appointed director beginning in 2016.

The five board members whose terms will expire at the end of 2015 are Mary Baker, Chapter 216, Milwaukee NW Wis.; Carla Breunig, Chapter WI54, NW Suburban; Robert Dippold, Chapter 943, Cassella, Ohio; Thomas VanHimbergen, Chapter 318, Mequon/Cedarbuerg, Wis.; and Art Wigchers, Chapter 216, Milwaukee NW, Wis.

Allan Lorge had a long career with Catholic Financial Life, retiring from his position of Secretary, Treasurer, and Executive Vice President in 2014. He is a retired CPA and also holds the designations of Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Fellow, Life Management Institute (FLMI). In addition to holding a senior leader position with the organization for more than 30 years, Lorge has been involved with numerous chapter, parish and community projects. He has held several board and committee positions in the City of Cedarburg, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church, and the St. Mary’s Hospital Ozaukee County Foundation. He currently serves on the Finance Council for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, and the Investment and Debt Financing Committee for the City of Cedarburg. He is a recipient of the Archdiocesan Vatican II Award for Service Administration.

Jay Mack has served as an Appointed Director for Catholic Financial Life since 2012; and has served on the Audit, Finance and Investment Committee, as well as the Strategy and Risk Oversight Committee. With more than 20 years of experience in the banking industry, he is currently the President and CEO of Town Bank in Hartland, Wis. His board service includes St. Anthony School in Milwaukee; National Advancement Council, St. Paul’s Catholic Center at University of Wisconsin-Madison; the Milwaukee Public Museum; Impact Seven; Hebron House, Waukesha, Wis.; Cardio Vascular Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin; President’s Council for Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. He currently serves as the Treasurer for the Greater Delafield Community Fund. He is a past Board President for the Waukesha County Economic Development Corp. and past Treasurer for the Waukesha County Museum and Historical Society.

Lisa Mick has been a member of Catholic Financial Life since 1992, currently serving as President of Chapter 19, Fond Du Lac, Wis. She has held numerous Triennial Committee positions, and had served on the Bylaws Committee, which completed a thorough rewrite of the Society’s Bylaws in 2012. In 2011, she established the “Soup du Jour,” a six-chapter event that has raised over $16,000 to benefit local St. Vincent de Paul councils. She is also very involved with the Scenic Shore 150 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, establishing an annual music-based event, “Shakin’ the Shack,” which has raised more than $25,000 since it began in 2006. Lisa’s dedication to the fraternal mission of Catholic Financial Life and the many hours she has dedicated to community service earned her the American Fraternal Alliance Fraternalist of the Year Award in 2013. In addition to her dedicated service to the community, Mick is Supervisor of the Grounds and Auto Departments at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.

The five newly elected Board Members include:


Susan Obermiller currently serves as President of Chapter 307, Eaton, Wis., and has been a member of Catholic Financial Life since 1984. She is an information technology audit professional in the area of cyber security risk assessment. Her parish and community service include volunteering for St. Matthew’s Parish, Salvation Army, American Red Cross, Hospital Sisters Health System, and City of Green Bay Elections. She has also served as a Board Assistant for the Astor Neighborhood Association and was on the fundraising committee for the Creekside Christian Montessori School. She also is the webmaster for the Fox Valley/Central Wisconsin Chapter of the Institute of Internal Auditors. Obermiller has a B.S. in Business Administration, with a minor in History from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.

Marion Strauss joined the Society in 1969 and is currently serving as the Secretary and Treasurer of Chapter 318, Mequon/Cedarburg. She has also served as a member of Catholic Financial Life’s Resolution Committee at the 2009 and 2012 Triennial Conventions. Earning a degree in Real Estate in 1988, her professional background includes several positions in the Real Estate and Mortgage Industry. She served as Parish Administrator at St. Joseph Catholic Church for 18 years, where she has also held the positions of Parish Council President and Secretary. She served on the board for the parish’s school, as well as the home and school association. Strauss is a Certified Lay Minister earning the designation at St. Francis de Sales Seminary in 1998 and regularly makes pastoral visits to Aurora Hospital.

Directors who were re-elected to the Board include:

Dennis Kabat, Chapter 266, New Holstein, Wis.

Patrick Murphy, Ph.D., Chapter WI52, Milwaukee, Wis.

Paul Pinsonnault, Chapter N042 North Attleboro, Mass.

David Singer, Chapter 151, Kenosha, Wis.

Michael Stivoric, Chapter 272, Lake Country, Wis.

John Kenawell, Chapter 1038, St. Louis, Mo.

Kristine Rappé, a life-long member of Catholic Financial Life, has held a number of executive positions with Wisconsin Energy Corporation including Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer, Corporate Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer, and Vice President of Customer Service. Kris currently serves on the boards of Waterstone Financial, Inc., and Froedtert Health. She is also a Trustee of Marquette University. Kris has a B.A. in Economics and Urban Planning, and has attended executive programs at the Harvard Business School and the University of Michigan’s School of Business Administration. An active community leader, Kris has served on numerous not-for-profit boards as well as co-chair of community campaigns including the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and the United Performing Arts Fund.

Appointed Director


On the same day that Pope Francis addressed the United Nations General Assembly to discuss issues confronting humanity in the 21st century, hundreds gathered on the Marquette University Campus in Milwaukee, Wis., to focus on families in need. The 8th Annual Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVdP) Friends of the Poor Walk/Run brought together Catholic Financial Life convention delegates, Marquette University students, and many local Vincentians to raise awareness and funds for the poor and hungry. The event also served as the official kick-off for the Triennial Convention.

Leading the charge that day were the leaders of three Catholic organizations: National Council of the United States SVdP CEO, David Barringer; Catholic Financial Life President & CEO, Bill O’Toole; and Marquette University President, Michael R. Lovell. “Marquette University was honored to co-sponsor and hold such a worthwhile event on our campus,” said Lovell.

The proceeds from the walk totaled more than $25,000. The funds raised will help support two area SVdP meal programs that serve more than 167,000 free meals each year, with more than 33,000 of those served to children. The Catholic Financial Life team was

named as the top fund-raising team for the fifth straight year. “Family is the foundation of our Society and helping those less fortunate is something Catholic Financial Life has been committed to for nearly 150 years,” stated O’Toole.

“With the support of national sponsors such as Catholic Financial Life, the Friends of the Poor Walk has grown tremendously over the past eight years, providing resources allowing our organization to deliver significant assistance to those living in poverty across the country and right here in Milwaukee,” stated Barringer.

Catholic Financial Life established an official partnership with SVdP in 2008. Since that time, more than $850,000 has been raised, matched or donated through Catholic Financial Life and our local chapters. Catholic Financial Life members have also given of their time, dedicating over 102,000 volunteer hours to help SVdP.

“As a member-owned organization, we are accountable to being both a trusted financial partner to our members and one that gives back to the communities in which they live. Our national partnership with St. Vincent de Paul is just one of the ways our associates

and members take an active role in working to fulfill this mission,”

remarked O’Toole.

Convention Kick-OffHundreds Walk/Run to Benefit Those in Poverty


The Society’s Bylaws were thoroughly reviewed, updated and restated in 2011 with the approval of more than 90 percent of all delegates from the 2009 conventions of the former Catholic Knights and Catholic Family Life Insurance following their merger to form Catholic Financial Life (the “Society”) in 2010. That process was led by a Merger Articles & Bylaws Committee (the “Bylaws Committee”) which consisted of 15 delegates from the 2009 conventions of both former societies. The 2012 Triennial Council approved one bylaw amendment and certain technical language changes to the Articles to align them with the updated bylaws. The Bylaws and the Articles are the governing documents which currently guide the Society’s governance process.

Based on the Judiciary Committee’s thorough review of the matters submitted for consideration in 2015, the Committee recommended amendments to the language with regard to the issues noted on this page. All recommended amendments were unanimously approved by delegates at the 2015 Triennial Council.

Following is a summary of the issues addressed by the Judiciary Committee and voted on by delegates.

Grandfather ClausesThe Society’s Bylaws included four “grandfather clauses” relating to matters that had been included in the Catholic Knights and Catholic Family Merger Agreement. Three of those “grandfather clauses” were no longer needed because the dates they referenced had either passed or the reason for the clause no longer exists. The Judiciary Committee recommended deleting those clauses from the Society’s Bylaws. Sections 2(f), 2(b), and 8(s) were impacted by these recommendations.

Triennial Council Business – Timing of Specific MattersThe Society’s Bylaws had included deadlines relating to the timing of specific matters related to Triennial Council business by referencing a specific number of days prior the Triennial Council meeting. As an example, the last sentence of Section 2(a) says that, “chapter officers must be notified of the date and place of the Triennial Council meeting not less than 240 days before the date the board sets for the Triennial Council meeting.” The Bylaws had similar language referencing a number of days for chapters to elect delegates, members to file information for Triennial Council committees to consider, and applications to be filed to be a candidate for an Elected Director position. The Judiciary Committee recommended replacing the number of days methodology with a reference to a specific month and day.

In addition to referencing deadlines as specific dates, the Judiciary Committee proposed moving the timelines 30 to 60 days earlier. Moving the timelines earlier will provide for better planning and allow more flexibility in setting Triennial Council committee meetings earlier before running into the busy July/August vacation months. This is of particular importance for the Nominating Committee, which may have to schedule several meetings and candidate interviews. Sections 2(a), 4, and 6 were impacted by these recommendations.

To view the bylaw updates in detail as amended by the Council on September 26, 2015, please visit www.catholicfinanciallife.org/2015-bylaw-changes.

To read the Articles and Bylaws in their entirety please visit www.catholicfinanciallife.org/bylaws. Members may also request a copy by mail by calling (800) 927-2547.

Articles and Bylaws Updates

“As we move forward, we will continue to be good stewards of the resources that you have entrusted to us. We will continue to implement our growth plans and make investments in our people. We will continue to make investments in technology to meet the expectations of new generations. If we do those things while remaining firm in our faith, then I am confident in our success.”

– William R. O’Toole Excepted from the CEO’s 2015 Report to delegates


Help Us Keep Your Records Up-to-DateInsurance regulations make it critical to verify your records and ensure your information is complete and up-to-date. Complete and accurate records allow us to process life insurance claims quickly, deliver on our promise to members, and provide funds to beneficiaries at a time when they may need it most.

It is also important to make sure that your contact information (mailing address, phone numbers and email), social security number and beneficiary designations are current. To update your records, please give us a call at (800) 927-2547 or visit join.catholicfiannciallife.org/update-your-info.

Are your parents listed as your beneficiaries? Are they still living?

Are “children of the insured” listed as your beneficiary? Have they gotten married or changed their names?

Find the Radiant CrossWe have hidden black

and white versions of the “Radiant Cross” icon – like the one

you see on this page – somewhere in this publication. Members who correctly identify the location of at least one of the five Radiant Cross icons hidden in this issue will be eligible for a drawing to receive $25. Please note: the Radiant Cross featured on this page does not count.

Submit your entry by January 15, 2016. Visit our Web site and click on the Fall Member Magazine link or mail your entry to: Member Magazine, Catholic Financial Life, 1100 W. Wells St., Milwaukee, WI 53233. Be sure to include your name, address, phone number and the location of the Radiant Cross.

The winner of our summer issue Radiant Cross activity was Pauline Weber.

Catholic Advent CalendarCatholic Financial Life is offering an online Advent Calendar to help keep the holidays Christ-centered. Register for our Advent Calendar – bringing a daily gift of scripture, inspiration, and Christmas activities to your inbox. Visit www.catholicfinanciallife.org/advent.


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Decisions. Decisions. What type of insurance should families consider?

Decisiones y más decisiones… ¿Qué tipo de seguro deben considerar las familias?

A TEACHABLE MOMENT

If you do a google search for insurance, you’ll quickly discover that it seems to come in all shapes and sizes. You know protecting your family is important, but do you know the differences between the various plans?

Term Life InsuranceSeguro de vida a término

Most people are surprised to learn how affordable term life insurance coverage can be. If you need coverage but have a limited budget, term life insurance might be the choice for you.

La mayoría de la gente se sorprende al saber lo económico que es el seguro de vida. Si Ud. necesita cobertura pero tiene un presupuesto limitado, el seguro de vida a término puede ser la mejor opción.

• It’s temporary. Es temporal. You can purchase it for ten-, twenty-, or thirty-year periods. Catholic Financial Life also offers a term life plan for children that helps parents begin a child’s financial future.

• There’s no cash accumulation. No hay acumulación de dinero en efectivo. With term you are paying for coverage only and not building any cash value like permanent life insurance plans will do. You can think of term insurance as “renting vs. buying.” When it expires, it’s done. There’s neither coverage nor cash.

• It’s affordable. Es económico. A 30-year-old in good health could pay less than $20 per month for $250,000 of 20-year term life insurance coverage.

• It can be exchanged for permanent coverage. Se puede cambiar por cobertura permanente. Some plans also allow you to convert your coverage to a permanent life insurance plan without any medical questions.

• Coverage can be renewed. Se puede renovar la cobertura. At the end of the term you can renew; however, you will likely have to pay much higher rates, and your premium could as much as quadruple due to the increased risk of health problems that comes with age. For this reason, it’s important to take advantage of this temporary insurance plan sooner rather than later.

Whole Life InsuranceSeguro de vida permanente

While term insurance may seem more affordable, whole life insurance may actually save you money in the long run.

Aunque el seguro de vida a término puede parecer más económico, es posible que el seguro de vida permanente le ahorre mas dinero a largo plazo.

1. It’s permanent coverage. Es cobertura permanente. As long as the insurance is paid for, the coverage never expires.

2. The premium never increases. La prima nunca aumenta. The younger the individual is at the time of the purchase, the cheaper the premium will be, and this price is guaranteed to be locked-in for life.

3. Cash value begins to accumulate after a few years. El valor del dinero en efectivo empieza a acumularse después de algunos años. You can borrow from this cash value, but be sure to pay back the loan to avoid interest charges and a decrease in the coverage provided by the policy.

4. It has a variety of purchase options. Hay varias opciones de pago.

• PurchaseaTraditional policy and pay premiums for life; or

• Setupa20-pay policy and stop making premium payments after 20 years. Even though the premiums end, the coverage continues; or

• Payonlyoncewithasingle premium policy. You’re covered for life and never have to think about it again!


Si Ud. hace una búsqueda de seguros de vida, se dará cuenta muy pronto que hay de todo tipo de seguros. Ud. sabe que el seguro de vida es importante, pero ¿sabe también las diferencias entre los distintos tipos de planes?

When deciding between the various types of life insurance, always make sure that you are purchasing enough for you, your family and your future. While you can do a lot of research on your own, often the best and most efficient way to determine your needs is by meeting with one of our advisors.

Life insurance is their profession and they will work with you, explaining why certain options might be better for your situation. Life insurance needs also change over time, so if you haven’t met with an advisor in the last year or two, contact a Catholic Financial Life advisor today!

Universal Life InsuranceSeguro de vida universal

Universal life is somewhat of a mix between term and whole life insurance. If you want more flexibility with your life insurance plan, consider a universal life policy.

El seguro de vida universal es, en cierta manera, una mezcla entre el seguro de vida a término y el seguro de vida permanente.

• It’s flexible. Es flexible.You can pay in level premiums, or you can increase and decrease payments at different times in your life. In addition, the amount of coverage can vary as your level of need changes.

• It should be reviewed annually. Se debe renovar anualmente. With universal life, you must review your policy often because of changes that can happen based on interest, loans, or withdrawals.

Critical Illness InsuranceSeguro de enfermedades graves

While critical illness insurance isn’t life insurance, it’s an important type of coverage to consider. Thanks to medical advancements, your chances of surviving a critical illness are better than ever. But are you and your family prepared for the financial burden of recovery? Health insurance doesn’t come close to covering all expenses!

Gracias a los avances médicos, la probabilidad de que Ud. sobreviva una enfermedad grave es más alta. Debe asegurarse, sin embargo, de que Ud. y su familia están preparados para la carga financiera de la recuperación de una enfermedad grave. El seguro médico ni apenas cubre todos los gastos médicos.

Critical illness insurance helps supplement lost income and pay the mortgage for the critically ill. It’s especially important when the healthy spouse must take time off work to care for a sick loved one or when the illness prevents someone from returning to work.

• Critical illness insurance pays a lump-sum cash benefit. El seguro de las enfermedades graves le paga a Ud. dinero en una sola paga. Upon the first diagnosis of a covered illness or procedure, you receive the benefit quickly so you can focus on your treatment, not worry about your finances.

• The cash benefit is paid directly to you. El beneficio del dinero en efectivo se le paga directamente a Ud.

• You can use this money any way you choose. Ud. puede usar este dinero como quiera.

When choosing between the various types of family protection plans, always make sure that you are purchasing enough for you, your family, and your future.

This article is meant to provide general information about life insurance and is not to be considered as a solicitation for life insurance. Not all Catholic Financial Life products and services are available in all states.


SERVING GOD BY SERVING OTHERS

Members of Chapter N443, Saint Jean-Hardwick, Vermont, presented a check with profits from their Match Fund ham dinner event. The chapter raised $779 to benefit Our Lady of Fatima Church. Catholic Financial Life provided another $500 in match funds.

Chapter WI46, Madison, Wis., held a luncheon to support the St. Olaf Council of Catholic Women. All food, beverages and paper goods were donated from Chapter WI46 and St. Olaf families. About $1,600 was donated to the council thanks to the efforts of this event.

Members of Chapter WI16, Green Bay, Wis., participated in a Match Fund event Fundraising for a Cause to help a friend diagnosed with lymphoma, who is now in remission. It was a one-day kickball tournament and auction that raised over $25,000. Members played kickball, and some volunteered in the concession stand.

“We are carriers of God’s love and whoever you are, you can become one also.”

–Mother Teresa

Members Giving Back.

Catholic Financial Life Chapter 317, Crivitz/Coleman, Wis., put Catholic values into action by sponsoring a bake sale at St. Augustine Church in Wausaukee, Wis. The recipients of the matching funds were St. Vincent De Paul, Amberg-Wausaukee and Crivitz Council. A total of $1,270 was donated through chapter funds raised and matched by Catholic Financial Life.


Catholic Financial Life advisors Paul and Debra Hill presented students Megan Hanson and Adam, Jonathan, and Tyler Sigwarth their scholarships from Catholic Financial Life.

Here are just two of several Chapter WI09, Chilton, Wis., members who helped run a rest stop at the Ledge View Nature Center Bike Tour. As a primary sponsor of the event, the Catholic Financial Life chapter presented a check from the proceeds to the park’s volunteer coordinator.

Chapter 72, St. Mark Parish-Rothschild, Wis., held a brat fry fundraiser to benefit St. Vincent de Paul in June. The chapter donated over $1,050 through fund raising and matching funds from Catholic Financial Life.

Chapter 118, Charlesburg, Wis., and Chapter 126, Johnsburg, Wis., came together to support the Ehlers Danlos Syndrome Awareness brat fry and bake sale in May. The event was held in honor of Calvin Casper and his family. It was certainly a successful day. Including Catholic Financial Life’s Match Funds, proceeds exceeded $12,000.

Top photo: Chapter 58 of Ripon, Wis., donated a raffle basket and volunteered at Poy Sippi Days, a fundraiser in the park to benefit the Poy Sippi Public Library, With matching funds almost $1,000 was donated to the library. Bottom photo: Chapter 216, Milwaukee NW, hosted a dinner, raffle, and bingo night to benefit St. Catherine’s Residence. With Match Funds, over $2,000 was raised to provide St. Catherine’s with two new stoves and extra funds for further updates.


SERVING GOD BY SERVING OTHERS

7. Chapter 929, St. Raphael the Archangel, Ill., organized a bake sale to benefit St. Joseph’s Table. The event provided over $1,800 with Matching Funds from Catholic Financial Life.

8. Catholic Financial Life advisor Pauline Huven presented a First Holy Communion Gift to Ethan Schiedermayer, who received the sacrament for the first time in May at St. Michael’s in DePere, Wis. The First Communion Benefit is just one of several Sacramental benefits offered by Catholic Financial Life.

9. Chapter N413, Lewiston, Maine, hosted a bean supper to benefit the Prince of Peace Parish poor box. The chapter raised $500 and Catholic Financial Life provided a match of another $500 to benefit the cause.

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1. In April, Catholic Financial Life President and CEO Bill O’Toole attended the member recognition dinner for Chapter 120, Watertown, Wis.

2. Chapter 68, St. Thomas Parish, Newton, Wis., cleaned up a two mile stretch of Highway 42 with the help of a youth group from St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Community.

3. For Join Hands Day in May, volunteers from Chapter 88, Madison, Wis., joined with students and parents at Immaculate Heart of Mary School in Monona for their annual Hispanic Heritage Festival which was held as a fundraiser for the Hispanic scholarship program at the school. The festival consisted of traditional Hispanic food and drinks and performances from different Hispanic dance and music groups. Catholic Financial Life volunteers set up tables, served food, and helped with clean-up.

4. Milwaukee, Wis., area chapters 89, 206, 275, 306, and WI52 gathered to celebrate the 130th anniversary of Flag Day. A flag-raising and social was held at Jackson Park in honor of Old Glory. Boy Scout Troop 580 from West Allis, Wis., participated in the ceremony. A new flag was also donated to the park.

5. Ethan Hackel was the recipient of a Catholic Financial Life Catholic elementary school scholarship. Carla Soczka, Catholic Financial Life advisor in Wausau, presented the scholarship to Ethan.

6. Members from six Wisconsin Chapters, 118, Charlesburg; 194, Charlestown; WI09, Chilton; 222, Jericho; 266, New Holstein; and 223, St. Anna, gathered to receive 50-year membership rosaries and 75-year membership Blessed Virgin Mary statues. Board member Dennis Kabat presented the awards.


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12. Chapter 265, Auburndale, Wis., held its annual member celebration in July, complete with a potluck lunch and bingo.

10. Chapter N441, Westport, Mass., and parishioners of St. George’s Church held their annual yarn collection during the month of May, donating over 20 large bags of assorted yarn, crochet needles, and knitting needles for volunteers to make afghans. The finished afghans were donated to Saint Vincent’s Behavioral Health Services which provides care for the mind, body and spirit of individuals and families with coping with mental health issues and substance abuse.

11. Members of Chapter 261, Cross Plains, Wis., helped to sponsor a Casino Night to benefit the Endowment fund of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and School. Chapter proceeds from the event were $600 including matching funds from Catholic Financial Life.


Summer 2015 was full of fun for Catholic Financial Life members. Regional events attracted more than 8,000 members to enjoy affordable and family-friendly events.

America’s favorite pastime was a popular attraction for members who attended a Milwaukee Brewers game in May, and several minor league baseball games in Wisconsin and on the East Coast including the Timber Rattlers in Appleton, Wis.; Sea Dogs in Portland, Maine; Express in Eau Claire, Wis.; Mallards in Madison, Wis.; and the Paw Sox in Pawtucket, R.I.

Many families and friends also came out for July’s Zoofari at the Milwaukee County Zoo which included not only admission, but a private picnic area with free refreshments and face painting. In August, members enjoyed cream puffs and raffle prizes at the Catholic Financial Life tent at the Wisconsin State Fair. Finishing the summer event season was the 60th Annual Pilgrimage in mid-September at the National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette in Attleboro, Mass.

2015 Summer Member Events

IT’S ALL ABOUT ME (MEMBER EXPERIENCE)


IT’S ALL ABOUT ME (MEMBER EXPERIENCE)

1 Student must be a financial member of Catholic Financial Life for at least one continuous year prior to applying for this benefit. A set amount of money is available on an annual basis for scholarships. Eligibility for a benefit does not guarantee receipt of a benefit. All benefits are non-contractual and may be discontinued or modified by Catholic Financial Life at any time.

Apply by March 31 for 2016-2017 Scholarshipsto Catholic elementary & high schools. College scholarships also available.Solicite antes del 31 de marzo para becas de las escuelas católicas primarias y secundarias del año escolar del 2016-2017. Hay becas disponibles para la universidad.

Your membership in Catholic Financial Life gives you access to special member-only benefits like our scholarship programs.

Scholarship ProgramsMembers are eligible to apply for a number of scholarship programs.1 The deadline for applications is March 31, 2016.

■ Catholic elementary school $200 scholarships (renewable annually) are available for students entering grades 1-8.

■ Catholic high school $500 scholarships (renewable annually) are available for students entering grades 9-12.

■ College scholarships for $500 (two-year institutions) and $1,000 (four-year institutions) are one-time awards and are not renewable.

Apply OnlineIt’s easy to apply online. Scholarship applications are located on our website catholicfinanciallife.org in the “Account Access” section.

Please note that you will need to log on using the student’s name who is applying for the scholarship.

If more than one student is applying, a separate registration and login is required for each applicant.

To Register1) Click on the “Register Here” link.

2) Complete the online registration form and click “Create Account.”

3) You will receive a verification email from Catholic Financial Life.

4) Once you receive the email, click on the verification link contained in the email. You may then proceed to your account access and apply for benefits.

Need help?If you have any questions or problems logging into your account access, please call (800) 927-2547 during regular business hours.

Si Ud. tiene preguntas o tiene problemas para acceder a su cuenta en el internet, por favor llame al (800) 927-2547 durante las horas de oficina.

catholic financial life member magazine, fall 2015

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