Support the Church in Northeast Ohio and make a difference with your gift. 
Enrich lives in Northeast Ohio through spiritual, educational, and charitable support. 
We help foster faith-based stewardship in the community for the spiritual, educational and charitable needs of all. Sold-out Alleluia Ball raises $1.74 million to support Catholic education throughout Northeast Ohio
Cleveland, OH - October 27, 2025 - A sold-out crowd of nearly 800 guests gathered at the 2025 Alleluia Ball, themed “Empowering Educators, Students & Innovation,” on Oct. 25 at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland. Hosted by the Catholic Community Foundation, which supports the mission of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland through faithful philanthropy, the gala raised funds to advance Catholic education across the diocese.
For the first time in the event’s history, proceeds will not only provide tuition assistance to help families afford a Catholic education, but also fund professional development opportunities for Catholic school teachers and innovative educational initiatives.
Within the 108 Catholic schools in the Diocese of Cleveland, nearly 40,000 students are educated each year, and more than 3,000 currently benefit from tuition assistance through the Diocesan Tuition Assistance and Fund A Dream programs. These programs ensure that families can access the gift of a Catholic education regardless of financial circumstance. Through the Fund A Dream initiative, $2,500 in tuition assistance is provided to individual students identified by schools through the scholarship application process. Students communicate with their donors throughout the year, sharing updates and gratitude for their support.
Renowned Catholic author and speaker Matthew Kelly was the featured guest at the gala. He inspired the audience with a message about becoming “the best version of yourself,” reminding guests that holiness begins with small, daily choices that align with God’s will. “Our lives change when our habits change,” Kelly shared, reflecting on how Catholic education helps young people form habits of faith, service, and excellence that last a lifetime.
The Most Reverend Edward C. Malesic, Bishop of Cleveland, offered words of gratitude and encouragement, highlighting how the evening’s purpose unites students, educators, and benefactors in one mission: strengthening Catholic education.“ In our schools, students learn who they are as children of God, and teachers help them discover their purpose,” Bishop Malesic said. “When we invest in our teachers, we invest in our students. Your generosity tonight ensures that both can continue to flourish — forming saints and scholars who will serve the world with their gifts. Together, we are shaping a future filled with faith, knowledge, and hope.”
Event Chairs were Meredith and Mike Hudec, Co-Chairs were Amy and Tim Conti and Beth and Mike Valentine. The bishop also thanked the sponsors, clergy, educators, and guests whose generosity continues to sustain Catholic education across all eight counties of the diocese.
The Alleluia Ball has a rich history. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $12 million to support Catholic schools and families seeking a Catholic education for their children. This year’s expansion to include teacher support and classroom innovation reflects the diocese’s ongoing commitment to both the students who fill the classrooms and the dedicated educators who guide them.
Information about supporting Catholic education can be found at www.CatholicCommunity.org/CatholicEducation, and information about Fund A Dream can be found at www.CatholicCommunity.org/FundADream.
*********************
About The Catholic Community Foundation
The Catholic Community Foundation is dedicated to enriching lives by encouraging faithful philanthropy. The Foundation supports the mission of the Diocese of Cleveland to provide for the spiritual, educational and charitable needs of people throughout Northeast Ohio. Since its inception in 2000, the Foundation has raised funds to support Catholic Charities, Catholic education, priestly formation, and other ministries in the Diocese of Cleveland.
Contact: Lisa King, Catholic Community Foundation
Phone: (216) 696-6525 ext. 1042
Email: lking@catholiccommunity.org