Supporting liberal religion is a challenge! Compared to megachurches nearby, our resources sometimes feel small. That is why we need to be smart about how we financially support our principles.
Annual pledges are the largest source of HVUUC’s income. In good years pledges often rise, but when the economy falters, pledges may drop.
HVUUC’s endowment fund can reduce funding volatility. This money is intended to provide long-term, stable income to the church. The fund’s bylaws require it to donate 4% of the rolling 3-year balance to the church each year. Real growth of the endowment fund therefore relies on continued donations from the congregation over time.
The endowment fund has a bit over $163,000 invested and will contribute $6,435 to next year’s annual operating budget.
Historically, the largest donations to the endowment fund have been from estates and similar donations. Wills can be written to bequeath a specific amount of money, or a specified percentage of the available funds.
Some donations have been made by businesses. For example, Lynn and Paulette Byrd, owners of the RE/MAX Results Real Estate Team, provide a percentage of any commission associated with congregants.
And lastly, individual congregants make donations designed to honor life events (e.g., graduations, marriages or even divorces). Gifts are also made to memorialize someone who passed away. In 2024 so far, 10 such donations (ranging from $25 to $250, with a median of $75) have been contributed, and they add up – over $900 just this year so far.
Honorary gifts are easy! Write a check to HVUUC with “endowment fund” written on the note line. You can attach a note to identify an honoree. Turn it in with the weekly plate or mail to the church. The endowment committee will write you an acknowledgement and inform the honoree (or their surviving family) of your generosity.
If you have any questions about the endowment fund and how it operates please don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing endowment@hvuuc.org.