Members and friends of the church are encouraged to consider leaving a gift to the Fund through their estate. Most donors will make their gift at the end of their life through provisions of their will or trust, or by naming the Endowment Fund as beneficiary of their retirement plans or life insurance. This could be done using any of the following options (or any combination of options):

• A percentage of your estate or trust
• A stated amount
• Specific property
• The remainder of your estate after gifts to other beneficiaries are made
• Contingent bequest (for example, if a named heir predeceases you, that gift could be directed to the Endowment)

Many different assets can be used in making gifts from your estate including:

• Cash
• Stocks, bonds and mutual funds
• Real estate, including your home, land, rental properties, etc.
• Retirement plan assets
• Life insurance proceeds
• Charities receiving retirement plan benefits (IRA, 401k etc.) don’t pay income tax on the distribution received like individual beneficiaries do. Another tool is naming the Endowment as beneficiary of your life insurance policy
• Some donors take advantage of tax laws which allow the donor to make a gift now but retain use of the property and income from the property during the remainder of their life. Examples include:
• Gift of real estate with a retained life interest
• Charitable trusts (several types)

Yes, gifts can be directed to any of the 6 accounts designated in the Charter. They are:

• Undesignated: This account has the greatest flexibility; income can be used to support ministries with the greatest need at the time.
• Missions, Evangelism and Outreach: Income used for missionary support, work and witness programs, and missionary projects locally and beyond.
• Children and Youth: Income used to help increase participation by children and youth in worship, discipleship, service, educations and fellowship. Also, to expand services provided and support development of children and youth programs.
• Education and Scholarship: Income used for:
  • Educational opportunities, evangelism programs, scholarships, discipleship, leadership training, camps and special workshops or seminars.
  • Scholarship grants to students seeking  post-secondary education.
  • Scholarship grants to students desiring to participate in early childhood education programs of the Church.

• Worship Arts: Income used to enhance the worship experience and provide funds for musical instrument replacement or major repairs, leadership, ensembles, special programs and drama, technology needs and enhancement for the worship environment.
• Building and Facilities: Income used to provide for capital improvements, major repairs, equipment, furnishings or decorations  of church property.

The above options are intended to cover ministry areas most donors may have an interest in supporting. In addition, donors can create a named account with specific designations if contributing at least $50,000. Please consult with a member of the Endowment Committee if considering creating a named account.

Most donors will make their gift at the end of their life. However, gifts can be made during your lifetime if that works better with your plans and goals.

A gift during your lifetime qualifies for the charitable deduction on your annual tax return. An end-of-life gift qualifies for a charitable deduction in your estate. Consult with your tax advisor.