Friends of Newman North

Dear Friends of Newman North,

The UB Newman Center is special. It’s not just the building—it’s the faith in action you see every day. Students find their community, families find support when they need it most, and everyone grows closer to God and to one another. While other institutions struggle to connect people, Newman continues to thrive because it offers what we’re all looking for: a welcoming community of faith.

Thank You!

Thank you for supporting the Friends of Newman North. FONN was founded in 2020, during a time of great uncertainty for both the Church and the world. Our mission is simple: to help ensure that the spirit of Newman endures for years to come.

Through your generosity, FONN has provided scholarships to UB students, funded programs and projects that strengthen the Newman Center’s ability to serve, and supported families in crisis. You’ve made a real difference.

What We’ve Accomplished Together

Over the past four years, your support has funded more than $64,000 in programs and improvements:

• Campus Ministry. Student dinners, Christmas gifts, activities, and outings that build the close-knit community Newman is known for.
• Event Sponsorship. Speakers like Prof. Massimo Faggioli, Fr. Pat’s farewell celebration, and student events at St. Benedict’s.
• Student Scholarships. Twenty scholarships to UB students actively involved in the Newman community.
• Emergency Family Assistance. Provided clothing, shoes, and food for families facing unexpected hardships.
• Facility Improvements. Stations of the Cross landscaping, new technology, and student lounge improvements.

A Shared Commitment

Your support of FONN complements — never replaces — your ongoing support of the UB Newman Center itself. Weekly collections and direct contributions remain essential to Newman’s daily operations, staffing, and ministry. FONN’s role is to stand alongside that effort, ensuring Newman’s ability to grow and serve in the years ahead, especially as the Diocese of Buffalo faces continuing financial challenges.

You may have noticed we don’t make announcements about FONN during Mass. We do that intentionally. It allows us to maintain our autonomy while still strongly supporting Newman’s mission. The result is that FONN operates independently of the Diocese of Buffalo, giving you an additional way to support Newman’s future with confidence.

Looking Ahead Together

As we look to the future, we’re asking you to prayerfully consider deepening your support in one of two ways:

– Make a one-time donation. This will help us continue the work you’ve already helped us start.

– Or, consider becoming a Sustaining Member. When you become a sustaining member, you help keep the spirit of Newman alive and growing—welcoming students, inspiring faith, and building lifelong friendships. Choose a level that feels right for you:

• St. John Newman Level – $2,500 per year. Your leadership gift keeps Newman strong and ready to serve for generations to come.
• Good Shepherd Level – $1,000 per year. Your steady support helps guide and nurture our community throughout the year.
• Fellowship Level – $500 per year. Your generosity helps students and friends stay connected through programs and shared experiences.
• Friendship Level – $100 per year. Every gift matters. Your contribution helps ensure that everyone who walks through Newman’s doors feels welcomed and supported.

Here’s how to contribute:

1. Mail a check to Friends of Newman North, 5171 Anfield Rd., Williamsville, NY 14221
2. Designate FONN as a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). (Friends of Newman North (“FONN”) is a New York State nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation)
3. Contribute directly from an IRA Required Minimum Distribution (RMD), reducing taxable income.
4. Or donate online on this website.

Join the FONN Family

Your sustaining support—at any level—helps ensure that the UB Newman Center remains a place where faith is strengthened, friendships are formed, and lives are changed for the better.

Thank you again for everything you’ve already done to support the UB Newman mission. We’re grateful to have you as part of this community, and we hope you’ll consider continued support as we work to secure Newman’s future for the students and families who need it most.

With sincere gratitude,

Mike Beato, Mary Maisano, Anne McGuirk, Greg Stamm, Mike Toner

Friends of Newman North Board of Trustees

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us using the form below.