Press Releases

Dear Friends, Members, and Donors of the Carmel Mission Foundation,

This letter is to provide our donors and supporters an update on the Carmel Mission Foundation. The Carmel Mission Foundation (CMF) was established in 2009 to ensure the historical preservation of the structures on the grounds of the Carmel Mission Basilica. While closely tied to this iconic site and National Treasure, the Foundation is not a religious organization. Instead, it is dedicated to the historical, architectural, and structural preservation of the Mission, focusing on raising funds for projects and programs that safeguard its legacy and enhance public awareness of its historical significance. We take our fiduciary responsibility to our donors seriously, ensuring that all contributions are used strictly in alignment with the Foundation's mission and purpose.

With the above purpose in mind, the Carmel Mission Foundation is a viable organization in every respect that is well managed with a dedicated and experienced Board of Directors. CMF is financially sound with approximately $1 million on deposit at the present time. We assure you that these monies will be used for their intended purpose. Though we continue to accept donations, we are not actively soliciting donations because of the ongoing litigation with the Diocese. With respect to that litigation, you will be pleased to hear that the cost for this litigation is covered by our D&O (Directors and Officers) liability insurance. With respect to that litigation, there has been very little activity from the Diocese. Our hope is that the Diocese will conclude that there was not much merit to the litigation and proceed with restoration projects funded by CMF for the benefit of the Carmel Mission Basilica.

We do hope to resume normal fundraising efforts soon and will keep you informed of important matters relative to the DOM litigation.

In closing, on behalf of the Carmel Mission Foundation and its Board of Directors, we wish you a blessed Christmas and a peaceful and healthy 2025.

Sincerely,

Rich Denier
Chairman
Carmel Mission Foundation