Jim and Carlene Svoboda were proud supporters of the mission of our Catholic schools for many years, and their generosity began with a simple act of gratitude.

Jim ran the funeral home and Carlene helped behind the scenes in countless ways, they were both deeply committed to ensuring their four children received a quality education in a Catholic environment.

Jill, Trisha, Mandy, and Tim all attended St. Wenceslaus School, with three of them graduating from Bishop Neumann. Even when their children were still in elementary school, Jim and Carlene started setting aside what they could to plan for giving back.

When their children later reviewed their estate plans, they discovered documents dating back to the 1980s. “Mom and Dad had planned to give something even when we were in elementary school,” Jill shared. “They always wanted to give back, and they showed us that through their careful planning. We just didn’t realize how generous they were going to be.”

That simple act of thanksgiving and foresight has now provided a $75,000 boost to three schools—St. John Nepomucene (where two of their grandchildren attended), St. Wenceslaus, and Bishop Neumann. Additionally, a $50,000 gift to the Endowment has been established as the Jim and Carlene Svoboda Memorial Scholarship, ensuring support for students for generations to come.

Jim and Carlene’s story reminds us that a little planning today can make a lasting impact tomorrow.

If you’d like to financially support this scholarship, please click the donate button or contact the development office.
Families must apply in FACTS to be considered for this Scholarship program. Families only need to complete one application for all scholarships. One application fee applies per family.