BSM has implemented a new way to look at philanthropy. A program called The Common Basket is a well-rounded approach to giving, emphasizing a balance of sharing time, talent and treasure.
What is the historical connection? The theme stems from a historical reference of students in Christian Brothers’ original schools sharing bread with each other at school. While some students would have plenty of bread to bring for lunch when at school, others did not. Those who were able to place extra bread into baskets, which were discretely positioned in the back of a room, did so. In turn, others were encouraged to anonymously take from the basket, if they needed to do so.
 How is Common Basket implemented each school year? During the school’s opening Mass, Fr. Tim Wozniak blesses the baskets, using a blessing written by campus minister Mike Jeremiah. All those present symbolically place into baskets their talents that they offer to the school community. Then starting with Homecoming Mass, and at each of the following Masses, baskets are passed again, this time for financial offerings to support philanthropic endeavors.
**Latest Results: The Catholic Schools Week collection brought in over $8,000 (a record by far!) for Haitian relief efforts.
Will participating in these offerings teach students about philanthropy? We certainly hope so, but beyond practicing philanthropy, students also learn more about the concept, overall. The BSM faith formation department has developed curriculum, specific for each of the theology classes. Also, each Common Basket collection is hosted by one of BSM’s major academic departments.
What is an example of a project? In 2009-2010 the math department selected Kiva, an online micro-lending organization that empowers individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs around the globe. BSM math teachers infused micro-lending lessons into the curriculum for each student to gain an understanding of this practice. After learning about Kiva, students were given an opportunity during Mass to make a donation toward this Common Basket project.
 Where did we get the baskets used? The baskets that are used were brought back from Rwanda, where BSM teachers James Cave and Dave Kuntz visited to study that country’s culture for curriculum enhancement.
Projects for 2008-2009:
Feed My Starving Children
The Lost Boys of Sudan
BSM’s Tuition Assistance Program
Rushford, Minn. Food Shelves
BSM’s Christmas Basket Program
Rwanda
Projects for 2009-2010:
Kiva
Central Asia Institute
Adopt a Family Christmas Common Basket
Catholic Relief Services – Haiti Relief
Open Arms Orphanage – South Africa
Do you have suggestions for Common Basket donation recipients? Complete our Recommendation Form and send it to Lisa Lenhart-Murphy at BSM.
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