THERESIAN FOUNDATION |
What is the Theresian Foundation?
The Theresian Foundation is a not for profit organization whose purpose is to oversee the socially responsible investments of the corporation for the benefit of Theresians International. Each year the Foundation provides needed funding to the organization. Their sole purpose is to financially support Theresians.
How did it come to be?
The Foundation was first created under the name, E. C. Voss Endowment Fund. It was created after our founder, Msgr. Elwood Voss passed away in 1990. Msgr. Voss had purchased a home in Scottsdale, Arizona. After he died the home was sold and the funds in the amount of $97,000 were invested in the Endowment Fund. In 2001, the E.C. Voss Endowment Fund became a separate not for profit corporation under the name Theresian Foundation.
Why do we need a Foundation?
Theresians is supported solely by its members through annual membership dues. However, membership dues do not completely cover the annual budget of Theresians. As we continue to build the asset of the Foundation, it allows the Foundation to give additional funds back to Theresians International.
What is its purpose?
The sole purpose of the Theresian Foundation is to financially support Theresians International. No other entity benefits from the Foundation.
Where does the money come from?
The funds the Foundation receives come from a variety of sources, all member driven.
Celebrate Life Cards, Women of Vision recognitions, general contributions, Wills and Bequests,
Because Theresians have made such a big impact on women’s lives, women remember Theresians in their wills.
We pay dues – why give to the Foundation?
Membership dues paid by Theresians each year do not provide for all of the expenses of the organization. As we continue to try and develop Theresians, particularly for the next generation, additional funds are needed to reach out and invite more women.
Where does the money go?
All contributions to the Foundation are tax exempt. The Theresian Foundation is a not for profit tax exempt organization. Funds given to the Foundation go toward building the financial assets of the organization so it can continue distributing funds annually to Theresians International. The Foundation has granted nearly $20,000 each year to further the efforts of Theresians.
How are the funds invested?
Since the creation of the Theresian Foundation the Board of Directors has chosen to invest the funds with Christian Brothers Investment Services (CBIS). CBIS has a long history of providing professional and socially responsible investments for the Catholic Church and its related organizations, convents, schools, hospitals. We feel confident that the funds we invest with them are investments that are consistent with our faith and the social justice teachings of the Church.
Who makes up the Theresian Foundation Board of Directors?
The Board of Directors of Theresians is made up of Theresian members who have served either in national or international positions on the Theresians International Board or the U.S.A National Leadership Team. The board has seven members who can serve three consecutive terms. It is helpful if members have investment experience but it is not required. The Board meets four times a year, three by conference call and once in person. No funds are available for travel.
What is Celebrate Life?
Celebrate Life is a way that each one of us can contribute to the growth of the Foundation. Celebrate Life Cards are for remembering someone’s birthday, an anniversary or acknowledging a death in the family. A memorial can be sent to the Theresian Foundation in the person’s name.
What is Woman of Vision?
Woman of Vision recognitions is a beautiful way to recognize an outstanding woman who lives the Theresian motto of “Women in Support of Women – Reaching Out with Gospel Values.” A gift in the amount of $2,500 is given to the Foundation. The recipient receives a beautiful crystal sculpture.
How is a Woman of Vision recognition given?
The Woman of Vision recognitions can be given at a Theresian event, a Day of Prayer or National/International conference. Family members or Theresian members can nominate someone to receive this recognition and they must gather the funds together.


