FAQs
What are Diakon’s greatest needs?
Beyond facing the significant costs of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are focused on helping to fund Benevolent Care Endowments for Diakon Senior Living Services communities and the Diakon Lutheran Fund, which supports a wide array of programs including those for children, families and adults of all ages. All gifts, of any size and designated for any Diakon program, are welcomed!
What is the amount of benevolent care/donor support Diakon needs on an annual basis?
Diakon provides approximately $1.7 million a month in benevolent care through all of our programs and senior living communities. Our goal is to fund that amount of care.
Can I leave a gift to Diakon in my will?
Absolutely. In fact, much of today's ministry would not be possible without the support of donors past who have left bequests for our organization. For more information on this vital form of support, as well as on other planned giving vehicles, please click here.
What types of gifts does Diakon accept?
Diakon accepts gifts of cash, stock and other investments, and planned gifts (such as charitable gift annuities, IRA rollover dollars, and insurance policies).
Do you have annual events that support Diakon programs?
Yes, we have three two Dining with Diakon events annually, one in central Pennsylvania and one in eastern Pennsylvania. We also hold an Outdoor Adventure Challenge to support programs at the Diakon Wilderness Center..
What type of organization is Diakon?
Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries and Diakon Child, Family & Community Ministries are both nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charitable health care and social service organization. The two organizations annually touch the lives of nearly 70,000 children, youths, families, and older adults. Diakon is an affiliated social ministry organization of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America through Lutheran Services in America; it serves primarily in Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Do you serve only Lutherans?
Absolutely not! Lutheran social ministry organizations represent the theological foundation of the church in reaching out through service to help all people, regardless of their personal faith or faith journey.
Can I restrict my gift for a specific use, program or community, and how?
Yes, you can restrict your gift by providing a clear written note of explanation attached to your contribution, writing a note on the memo portion of your check or by using the drop-down giving option on the Diakon website.
Whom do I call for a personal contact?
Please call toll-free 1-877-342-5667, option 2, ext. 21219, and we will be happy to have a giving officer speak with you. You may also send an e-mail to Cindy Alexander, senior gift processor.
What is the financial stability of Diakon?
Diakon is a fiscally sound organization that has weathered any number of challenging societal conditions over nearly 150 years. In fact, our strength and commitment to staff have earned us awards and a positive reputation among banks and other financial institutions. Currently, in fact, our Fitch credit rating is BBB+, outlook stable. Our annual report, found on this website, provides details on our financial position for the last two years.
