FAQ

What are Diakon's greatest needs in 2012?

In 2012 we are focused on helping to fund the Benevolent Care Endowments for Diakon Senior Living Services, Diakon Kathryn's Kloset, Diakon Adoption & Foster Care, and the Diakon Wilderness Center’s Flight Program. For more information on these programs, see our How Your Gift Helps page.

What is the amount of benevolent care/donor support Diakon needs on an annual basis?

Diakon annually provides approximately $1 million a month in benevolent care. 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 Dining with Diakon events annually; one each year in Baltimore, Harrisburg, and Allentown. See our Dining with Diakon site for more information.

What type of organization is Diakon?

Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) charitable health care and social service organization annually touching the lives of more than 500,000 children, 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, Maryland, and Delaware.

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 Carol Kessler at kesslerc@diakon.org.

What is the financial stability of Diakon?

Diakon Lutheran Social Ministries 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 both have earned us awards and a positive reputation among banks and other financial institutions. Currently, in fact, our credit rating is Triple B+. For more information, please feel free to read our annual report, which provides details on our financial position for the last two years.