Faces of Philanthropy: Madelyn Weed
“Catholic philanthropy is a sacred response to God’s blessings – a way to love, serve, and leave a legacy of faith.”
Madelyn Weed
Corpus Christi Catholic Church
President & CEO
WPGC Member
St. Katharine Drexel Society Member
Vivos Christi Society Member
I have had the privilege of serving the Church in various capacities since 2001, dedicating my career to advancing faith-based missions through development and donor engagement. I joined The Catholic Foundation in 2019 to lead the newly established Donor Services Team, with a mission to foster a more donor-centered culture. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of launching the Donor Advised Fund program, founding the Women’s Philanthropic Giving Circle, transforming our planned giving efforts into a vibrant legacy planning initiative, and expanding the Foundation’s granting programs. I find great joy in walking alongside donors as they discern their philanthropic goals and helping them maximize the impact of their generosity in ways that reflect their faith and values.
My career in the nonprofit sector began with an internship at the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida while completing my degree at the University of Central Florida. That experience sparked a passion for development work that has guided my journey ever since. After returning to Illinois to be closer to family, I spent 18 years at Marmion Abbey and Academy in Aurora, IL, serving in various leadership roles, from Director of Communications and PR to Executive Director of Advancement, where I led strategic efforts in marketing, fundraising, and alumni engagement.
I now enjoy living in the incredibly beautiful suburb of Clermont with my husband of 27 years, Andrew, who also serves the Church in the Diocese of Orlando’s Office of Ecclesiastical Properties. We love spending time with our adult children, Aurora (Jack) and Coley, and are parishioners at Corpus Christi in Celebration. In our free time, we enjoy the theme parks, walking Florida’s beautiful beaches, and finding joy in God’s creation together.
Faces of Philanthropy Q & A with Madelyn Weed:
Q: What excites you most about the Foundation’s work?
A: What excites me most is the privilege of witnessing how faith and generosity come together to transform lives. At its heart, the Foundation is a vehicle for hope – not just for today, but for generations to come. I’m constantly inspired by the trust donors place in us and the way the Holy Spirit moves through their generosity to build stronger parishes, support Catholic education, care for the vulnerable, and bring others closer to Christ.
Q: How do you see your role shaping the future of Catholic philanthropy in the community?
A: I see my role as both steward and storyteller. It’s about nurturing trust, cultivating relationships rooted in faith, and inspiring a culture where giving is seen as a sacred response to God’s blessings. I hope to encourage more people to see their resources, financial and otherwise, as gifts to be used for His work. Catholic philanthropy is not just about writing a check; it’s about expressing our discipleship, and I want to help our community embrace that identity with joy and confidence.
Q: If you could tell donors one thing, what would it be?
A: Your gift is more than a transaction, it’s a testament. It’s a witness to your faith, your values, and your belief that the Church has a vital role in the world today. You are not simply giving to a need, you are investing in God’s work and leaving a legacy that speaks of love, hope, and eternal significance.
Q: What’s your favorite Scripture verse, quote, or saint?
A: St. Thérèse of Lisieux has always held a special place in my heart. Her “little way” reminds me that the most powerful acts of love are often the quiet, hidden ones – much like the often-unseen act of charitable giving. She teaches us that holiness is accessible in our everyday lives, and that we can change the world not by grand gestures alone, but by doing small things with great love. That’s the spirit I pray infuses all we do at The Catholic Foundation.
Q: What message would you give to someone just beginning their giving journey?
A: Start where you are, and trust that God can multiply even the smallest gift when it’s given with love. Philanthropy is not reserved for the “wealthy,” it’s a path of grace open to everyone. When we give in alignment with our faith, we participate in God’s mission of mercy and transformation. Don’t be afraid to begin, the joy you’ll find in giving far outweighs anything you give away.
Click here to learn more about the Catholic Foundation Team.