For the fourth consecutive year, the “Make a Joyful Noise” fundraising campaign united parishioners, families, alumni, and friends in joyful support of Catholic education across the Diocese of Allentown.
What began four years ago as a creative and spirited fundraiser has grown into a cherished annual tradition – one that celebrates the heart of our Catholic schools while strengthening the bonds of our faith community.
This year’s campaign ran from Jan. 25 to Feb. 23 and reached new heights. With more than 1,300 individual donations, the “Make a Joyful Noise” initiative raised an impressive $171,000, surpassing last year’s total and demonstrating once again the generosity and commitment of our Catholic community.
Each donation served as a vote of confidence in the mission of Catholic education and in the educators who guide and form our students each day.
Leading the campaign in total funds raised were:
- Good Shepherd Catholic School, Northampton earned first place with a whopping $44,000 raised.
- Nativity BVM High School, Pottsville finished second with over $27,000 raised.
- Immaculate Conception School, Pen Argyl secured third place with more than $11,000 raised.
While these schools earned top fundraising honors, every participating school brought its own unique voice, creativity, and enthusiasm to the campaign. Through music-filled videos and joyful performances, students and staff showcased not only school spirit, but the values that define Catholic education: faith, service, community, and joy.
Beyond the outstanding financial results, the true impact of “Make a Joyful Noise” was reflected in the hundreds of heartfelt notes of encouragement and messages of love submitted alongside donations. These messages offered powerful testimony of the deep connection to our schools.
To honor the dedication, creativity, and success of all participating schools, a special awards ceremony will be held in April to formally recognize their efforts. This celebration will acknowledge both fundraising achievements and the spirit of collaboration that made the campaign such a success.
To everyone who donated, thank you. Your generosity has a direct impact on our schools.
With hearts full of gratitude and a few tunes still stuck in our heads, we now look ahead with excitement. 2027 will mark the fifth anniversary of “Make a Joyful Noise.” Until then, thank you for helping our schools make a joyful noise.
Article Author Valerie Versmee is the Director of School Development for the Office of Education.
Photo from the 2026 “Make a Joyful Noise” video by Good Shepherd Catholic School, Northampton.
