Gift Planning Team Attends The Theology of Gift Conference

What does it look like to ground philanthropic work in both faith and excellence?

A recent opportunity invited our Gift Planning team to explore this question — read more about their takeaways and how it’s impacting their work.

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In early February, members of the Catholic Community Foundation for Eastern South Dakota’s Gift Planning team traveled to Phoenix, Arizona to attend the Theology of the Gift Conference, hosted by the Institute for Catholic Philanthropy at the University of Mary.

Participating in the conference were our Gift Planning Officers—Joe Brinkman, Nicole Fuhrer, Marne Hult, and John Potts—alongside Casson Dennison, Director of Estate Planning.

The conference gathered Catholic development leaders from across North America to explore the theology of generosity and the practical realities of philanthropic ministry. Sessions focused on cultivating legacy gifts, strengthening donor relationships, and integrating faith with sound planning strategy. Our team also had the opportunity to network with peers serving Catholic ministries throughout the continent, sharing ideas and learning best practices that help strengthen the service we provide to donors across Eastern South Dakota.

Reflections from the Team

Each member of our Gift Planning Office returned with insights that continue to shape our work. Joe Brinkman reflected on how the conference reframed the purpose of fundraising itself. “Although the room was filled with fundraisers, we spent very little time talking about the tactics of ‘raising money,'” he shared. “Instead, the focus was on accompanying people in their faith journey. True fundraising is not just about transactions—it is about stewardship, discipleship, and walking with donors as they discern how God is calling them to share the gifts they have received. Our responsibility is not simply to secure gifts, but to honor them well.” Nicole Fuhrer found one of the most impactful talks explored the difference between charity and philanthropy. “Both are important and we need both,” she noted. “As a gift planning officer, we can adopt different approaches depending on the stage our donor is at. The goal is to guide them from a charitable mindset to a philanthropic one.” Marne Hult appreciated the spiritual and educational depth of the experience: “Each day we heard outstanding speakers who provided great faith-based education, along with the opportunity to attend daily Mass together. I feel blessed to work in a place that invests in us in such a meaningful way.”

Beyond the theological insights, the conference strengthened bonds within the team and across the broader Catholic fundraising community. Nicole expressed gratitude for the team-building opportunity, saying, “I am grateful for the incredible team-building opportunity with colleagues whom I consider friends.” John Potts emphasized the value of learning alongside others who share the same mission: “Gathering for the Theology of the Gift conference was truly a blessing. Having the privilege to pray, walk alongside, and learn from the wisdom of other faithful Catholic leaders is invaluable as we return and continue to grow in our service to the parishioners of the Diocese of Sioux Falls and beyond.” For Casson Dennison, the relationships built were among the most meaningful aspects: “One of the most meaningful parts of the conference was the opportunity to connect with other Catholic fundraisers from across the country. It is encouraging to be part of a broader network of professionals who are each dedicated to the same mission within their own communities.”