Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between the Memorial and Endowment funds?
- The Memorial Fund is used for immediate or near-term projects that enhance our worship, ministries, or facilities—often given in memory or honor of a loved one.
- The Endowment Fund is a permanent fund where gifts are invested, and only the earnings are used. This ensures ongoing support for the church’s future mission and ministry.
2. How are funds overseen?
- Both funds are managed by the Memorial and Endowment Committee, appointed by the congregation.
- All gifts are recorded, acknowledged, and used according to the donor’s wishes and church policy.
- Financial activity is reported to the congregation annually for full transparency.
3. Is my gift tax deductible?
- Yes. First Lutheran Church is a registered non-profit organization.
- All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, and you will receive a giving statement for your records.
4. Can I designate how my gift is used?
- Yes. You may designate a specific ministry area or purpose, or make your gift undesignated to be used where it’s most needed.
5. Can I make a planned or legacy gift?
- Absolutely. Planned giving through wills, trusts, or estate planning is a wonderful way to ensure your faith continues to make an impact for future generations.
6. How do I request grant funds or a School Scholarship?
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure your project supports the mission of First Lutheran Church and fits the purpose of the Memorial or Endowment Funds.
- Complete a Form: Grant Request or Scholarship Application
Provide: • Contact information • Project description and amount requested • How it supports ministry or church legacy • Timeline for use - Submit Your Request- Send the completed form to the church office or complete form online.
- Committee Review- Requests are reviewed the second week of February, May, August and November. You will be contacted if more details are needed.
- Notification & Follow-Up-Approved grants are distributed per the project timeline.