PROVIDENCE—Most Reverend Bruce A. Lewandowski, C.Ss.R., Bishop of Providence, has appointed Timothy McCaig as Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation of Rhode Island (CFRI) as well as Consultant for Diocesan Development. McCaig will lead the non-profit foundation which stewards endowed funds for the long-term stability of charitable, religious, and educational institutions within the Catholic Church in Rhode Island. One of the largest Catholic foundations in the country, CFRI has more than $159 million in assets under management.
“Our Catholic Foundation plays a critical role in ensuring the future good works of the Church across our state. It will be in good hands with Tim’s leadership. He has been highly effective as diocesan director of stewardship and I know he will bring his many talents, passion, and strong faith to the foundation,” said Bishop Lewandowski.
McCaig has most recently served as Director of Stewardship and Development for the Diocese of Providence for five years, including overseeing the annual Catholic Charity Appeal.
“Knowing him from his previous role as the Director of Stewardship and Development, our Board of Advisors is especially pleased by the appointment of McCaig as the Executive Director of CFRI. We are eager to begin collaborating with him on new initiatives that will enhance the visibility of the Foundation, further our mission, and assist donors in satisfying their charitable planned giving intentions,” said Joanne Speroni-Woody, CTF, Chair of the CFRI board of advisors.
Before the diocese, Tim served as Operations Director at a national fundraising consultancy to Catholic organizations, Guidance in Giving. An alumnus of Providence College, Tim earned a bachelor’s degree in English and history.
“I am deeply honored to accept the appointment as Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation of RI and Consultant for Diocesan Development. It is a true privilege to serve under the leadership of Bishop Lewandowski and to collaborate with such a dedicated board of advisors. I look forward to building upon the excellent work that has already been done and to helping guide future growth and renewal in service to the Catholic Foundation. I have been blessed to work alongside many exceptional pastors, donors, volunteers, and colleagues during my time here, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue supporting them and collaborating on new initiatives that strengthen our shared mission,” said McCaig about the appointment.
Bishop Lewandowski has also appointed Melissa Behm as Diocesan Director of Development and the Catholic Charity Appeal. She has been serving as Assistant Director of Stewardship and Development since 2023, with a primary focus on the Catholic Charity Appeal.
“I have every confidence that Melissa will continue to build on the great success of our Catholic Charity Appeal now in its 101st year,” said Bishop Lewandowski.
Prior to coming to the Diocese of Providence two years ago, Behm worked in the nonprofit sector focusing on homelessness.
“I am thankful that, through my work on the Catholic Charity Appeal and with the Diocese of Providence, I can continue to support ministries bringing hope and compassion to Rhode Islanders in need. I am deeply grateful to Bishop Lewandowski for entrusting me with this role and I thank Tim McCaig who has led the appeal with such dedication for the past five years.”
