What Is the Upper Peninsula Catholic Foundation?
The Upper Peninsula Catholic Foundation (UPCF) is an independent organization, separately incorporated from the Diocese, dedicated to growing and sustaining the Catholic faith across our beautiful peninsula. Through the power of permanent endowments, the Foundation helps to ensure the long-term financial health of our parishes, Catholic schools, and ministries. The UPCF supports the Church’s mission today and for generations to come.
The UPCF currently manages 41 different investment funds totaling $41.6 million.
What Is a Permanent Endowment?
A permanent endowment is a fund established by one or more donors to support a particular purpose, such as a parish or school. The principal amount given to start the fund, as well as future gifts, is never spent. Instead, in simple terms, the annual interest income is donated to the designated beneficiary as outlined in the fund agreement. This ensures the core value of the endowment remains intact forever.
Think of the UPCF as a long-term savings resource for the Diocese's future needs, in contrast to weekly donations to parishes or the Upper Peninsula Catholic Services Appeal (UPCSA), which largely support current obligations.
Who Manages the UPCF?
The UPCF is governed by a Board of Directors made up of parish and community leaders from across the Diocese. They are responsible to both donors and the ministries served by the funds. The Board engages the National Catholic Investment Pool to professionally manage and invest the Foundation’s assets. In addition, the Foundation undergoes an annual financial audit.
The Board ensures that all operations follow federal, state, and canon law. It serves in an advisory capacity to the Bishop of Marquette, although the Bishop does not participate in regular board meetings or daily management. The Diocese provides administrative services through a formal agreement, assisting with accounting and development operations.
Are the Funds Invested in Agreement With the Tenets of the Roman Catholic Church?
Yes. All UPCF investments follow the guidelines issued by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The Foundation gives donors confidence that their gifts will always be handled according to their intentions and guided by strong Catholic principles. The Board of Directors, faithful Catholics committed to Church teaching, carefully upholds these standards.
Is the UPCF Only for Big Donors?
Not at all. The UPCF welcomes gifts of any amount. Every contribution strengthens the Foundation’s mission and allows more people to experience the joy of helping others through lasting charitable support.
Can the Bishop of Marquette spend money from the UPCF?
No. The Bishop cannot withdraw or spend UPCF funds. Each fund is governed by a legal agreement that strictly defines how its assets may be used. Funds can be distributed only for the purposes specified in those agreements.
What Is Legacy of Faith?
Legacy of Faith is the largest endowment within the UPCF. It was created to nurture and advance the Catholic faith throughout the Upper Peninsula. Legacy of Faith provides grants benefiting Catholic schools, parish faith formation, Catholic Social Services, and specific diocesan initiatives identified by the Bishop.
How Can I Donate to the UPCF?
Many donors choose to support the Foundation through bequests or other planned giving arrangements. Others prefer to give directly by mailing a check, indicating the fund they wish to support, to:
UPCF
1004 Harbor Hills Drive
Marquette, MI 49855
Online giving is also available at:
What other questions can I answer for you about the Upper Peninsula Catholic Foundation Fund? Please don't hesitate to contact me today: