On Nov. 29, the tenth anniversary of Giving Tuesday, the global philanthropic movement that follows Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday, Catholic schools in the Diocese of Trenton collectively highlighted the value of a faith-based education while appealing for community support.

Christine Prete, associate director of development operations for the Diocese, led the campaign that is a part of the Diocese’s “Catholic Schools Have It All” initiative.

“I am humbled at the outpouring of support to make our fifth Giving Tuesday in support of Catholic education a successful event!  Alumni, parishioners, school staff, diocesan staff and school families came together to raise over $57,000 in 24 hours. Crowdfunding – raising small amounts of money from a large group of people – has proven to be a way to celebrate and recognize the value of Catholic Education. Funds raised will help alleviate the costs for tuition or other needs that require additional funding at the schools,” Prete said.

PHOTO GALLERY- See photos from Giving Tuesday 

In addition to making a financial donation, supporters were encouraged to volunteer time or say a prayer for their school of choice.

Students in the elementary schools were also given a paper smartwatch challenging them to complete acts of service in their schools, families and communities.

Donations are still being accepted at www.leadinfaith.org, where alumni, benefactors and friends of Catholic education may donate to a Catholic school in the Diocese.

Updated results from Giving Tuesday will be reported on the www.leadinfaith.org site and in continued coverage on www.TrentonMonitor.com.