First Lutheran Church

Memorial & Endowment Funds

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

Your gifts help sustain the mission of First Lutheran Church for generations to come.

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.

Thank you for honoring the past and investing in the future of First Lutheran Church.”