The Give and Gain concept was formulated by Joseph J. Brennan, K.M., in 1955. Joe's expressed mission was to provide individuals with tax-saving opportunities to financially support charitable organizations while also retaining valuable assets for their families whom they worked a lifetime to support.
      In May 2003, Joe — together with his wife, Ann — completed an unprecedented Vatican collaboration between Cor Unum, the Papal charity, and Cross International Catholic Outreach.
 This relationship now allows American donors to receive a charitable tax deduction to support the mission of Cor Unum and also allows Cross International to remain in compliance with our United States tax laws.
      Cor Unum was established by His Holiness, Pope Paul VI on July 15, 1971 and now continues under His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, the Successor of Saint Peter. Cor Unum is charged with one mission: "to respond to the charitable intentions of the Pope bringing emergency aid to the suffering poor throughout the world".

Click here to read about Joe and Ann's recent visit with Pope Benedict XVI concerning the continuation of the collaboration between
Cor Unum and Cross International Catholic Outreach.

The Shared Mission of Cor Unum and
Cross International Catholic Outreach

      The Pontifical Council Cor Unum for Human and Christian Development was established by Pope Paul VI in 1971. It directly assists the Pope and is his instrument for carrying out special humanitarian actions when disasters occur — which included outreaches to the tsunami victims in Southeast Asia, a response to famines in Africa and programs to assist hurricane survivors in the United States. Cor Unum also encourages the faithful to give a concrete witness to evangelical charity, and it works to coordinate the initiatives of Catholic organizations through the exchange of information and by promoting cooperation. It encourages theological reflection among pastors in order to strengthen the Christian roots of charity, and it fosters and supports volunteer service to help the poor.
Click here to read more about Cor Unum.
      Cross International Catholic Outreach is proud to have been selected by Cor Unum for this unique collaboration, which has enabled donors the ability to accomplish so much in our Lord's name and for His glory. Through this unprecedented relationship, Cross is able to support the Holy Father's important outreaches to the poor and expand its own ability to respond to natural disasters and other emergencies around the globe.

Click here to read more about Cross International Catholic Outreach.