Good Shepherd Lutheran School

THE CHALLENGE

Since opening its doors in 1981, Good Shepherd Lutheran School in Pekin, Illinois, has faithfully provided Christ-centered education rooted in academic excellence and the love of Jesus Christ. Supported by its three founding congregations and sustained by dedicated teachers, families and church partners, the school has flourished in mission and ministry. Yet a long-standing financial burden remained. In 2009, Good Shepherd took a bold step to secure its future by purchasing and renovating its current building. While some funds were raised, the majority of the cost was financed with a loan. After years of stewardship and sacrifice, nearly $1 million of the debt remained with hefty payments threatening to limit investment in programs, faculty and students. Previous attempts to fully retire the debt had fallen short, and school leaders knew a new approach was needed.

THE VISION

A singular need was clear: eliminate the remaining debt and secure a strong future for the school. Finally retiring the debt meant:

• Strengthening financial stability and flexibility, allowing resources to be redirected to academic programs, students and faculty.
• Expanding ministry and educational opportunities by removing barriers to growth and innovation.
• Preparing for the future by establishing a fund for long-term maintenance of the school’s building and grounds once the debt is eliminated.
• Uniting the community in faith and stewardship, emphasizing generosity as a response to God’s grace and a shared commitment to Christ-centered education.

THE SOLUTION

Good Shepherd partnered with Fellowship Development to bring professional leadership, structure and spiritual depth to a new capital campaign. Fellowship Development guided the school through every phase of the effort maintaining a clear timeline, organizing and equipping volunteers and producing inspiring, well-crafted campaign materials. The team fostered strong relationship with staff and the wider community while keeping the Moving Forward as One in Christ Capital Campaign grounded in prayer and faith, reminding the community that stewardship is not merely financial, but a vital expression of discipleship. This approach energized the school family, strengthen unity and renewed confidence in the mission. The results were transformative: generous early gifts reduced the remaining debt to just $850,000, positioning Good Shepherd to become debt-free ahead of schedule. A well-managed, unique campaign in partnership with Fellowship Development not only advanced fundraising goals, but also nurtured the spiritual life of the community, allowing the school to move forward with joy, purpose and renewed capacity to serve the students and families of the school for years to come.