PERRYVILLE – A Catholic ministry rooted in rural Southeast Missouri is receiving national attention for work that is changing lives far beyond the confines of its 50-acre campus in Perryville.
The Association of the Miraculous Medal (AMM) has been named Nonprofit of the Year by the Nonprofit Alliance Christian Development Council, a national organization that supports Christian ministries through leadership development and fundraising education.
The honor will be presented later this summer at the Faith & Fundraising Forum, a gathering that brings together Christian nonprofit leaders from across the country to share best practices and celebrate excellence in mission-driven work.
According to Christian Development Council (CDC) leaders, the Association stood out for its ability to pair growth with careful stewardship—expanding its reach while remaining focused on accountability and impact. The nomination also noted the organization’s exceptional internal culture, citing AMM’s emphasis on collaboration, respect, and empowerment among staff.
“We are grateful to receive this recognition, not only for what it says about our organization, but also for what it says about the impact faith-based ministry can have on people’s lives,” said Don Fulford, Executive Director of the Association of the Miraculous Medal. “From our home in Perryville, we have the privilege of serving members across the country and around the world while remaining deeply rooted in the values of this community and the people of Southeast Missouri. Every prayer request, every conversation, and every act of support is an opportunity to share hope, and that remains at the heart of everything we do.”
The latest honor adds to a growing list of recognitions earned by the organization and its leadership team. In 2020, the Association of the Miraculous Medal was named Business of the Year by the Perryville Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2023, Fulford received the Difference Maker of the Year Award for his leadership and service to the community. That same year, AMM Chief of Operations Renee Brueckner was honored with the Distinguished Service Award from the National Catholic Development Conference in recognition of her lifetime contributions to Catholic fundraising. Earlier, in 2017, the National Catholic Development Conference recognized the Association for its distinguished marketing campaigns.
The Association of the Miraculous Medal traces its roots to the 400-year-strong Vincentian tradition of evangelization. AMM has been a familiar presence in Perryville and the surrounding region since 1918. From its Southeast Missouri headquarters, the organization supports spiritual life through prayer resources, devotional outreach, and a global network of members connected by shared faith.
AMM also maintains the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, which is located on the same campus as the Association’s headquarters. The National Shrine opened in 1929 as an annex to the historic St. Mary’s of the Barrens Church, home of the Vincentian priests and brothers of the Western Province. Each year, thousands of visitors are welcomed to the Shrine and the Rosary Walk on the 50-acre establishment.
“The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal is a place where people can step away from the noise of everyday life and encounter God’s peace,” said Fr. Clayton Kilburn, C.M., Spiritual Director of the Association of the Miraculous Medal. “Whether someone comes seeking reflective space, healing, guidance, or simply a moment of prayer, they are welcomed here with open arms and the loving presence of Our Lady.”
Every year, thousands of AMM members share their testimonies about Mary’s intercession in their lives, as well as their gratitude for the many ways the Association offers them prayerful support.
“It is of great comfort to me to know I can call in to AMM with my intentions and speak to someone personally,” one member shared when Association staff phoned to thank her for her recent offering. “I am so thankful for your call, which has made me feel closer to the Blessed Mother.”
To learn more, visit AMM online at amm.org, or call AMM during weekday business hours at 800-264-MARY (6279).