Endowment Fund

The Fund in Action

In 2006, the members of Little River United Church of Christ established the General Endowment Fund to accumulate funds that will underwrite the mission of our church in perpetuity. Elected volunteers implement a formal policy that governs the administration and uses of this restricted Fund. The Fund’s assets are invested with United Church Funds in New York, established in 1909 and responsible for over one billion dollars in assets. They are affiliated with the United Church of Christ, but also serve other church denominations.

Thanks to generous and foresighted donors, the Fund has received gifts of over $455,000 as of December 31, 2023. Interest, dividends, and market growth have brought the total value of the Fund to $653,000.

The Fund is meant to grow over time, with its value never allowed to drop below the total of donor contributions. However, a portion of its value each year is available to support church operations and ministries. Disbursements first began in 2017, when donations reached a threshold value of $250,000. Since then, $158,000 have been approved by the congregation for various local and regional charities, a scholarship for LGBTQ+ students at Howard University Divinity School, seminary debt retirement and financial education for active ministers through the UCC Pension Board, and support for the Neighbor-to-Neighbor Afghan Relief program. Other uses have included audio-visual equipment and motorized solar shades in the sanctuary, a new stove in the kitchen, children’s musical equipment and storage cabinets in room 7, and redesign and enhancement of our website.

What is the significance of an Endowment Fund?

An endowment fund provides evidence of long-term stability of a church, offering potential donors the assurance that their gifts will be well managed and used wisely, in perpetuity. Our policy of allocating at least half of each year’s spending to outreach and educational ministries demonstrates that the Fund exists largely to benefit others beyond our own membership. A smaller portion gives us the ability to implement necessary capital projects or innovative ministries not possible within our annual budget.

How can I help Little River build its Endowment Fund?

You can help by giving thoughtfully and generously to the Endowment Fund in addition to your pledged giving to the annual budget. By doing so, you will help ensure that Little River will be able to nurture and care for the spiritual and programmatic needs of its members and the community for years to come. Giving to the Endowment Fund is a meaningful way to mark your commitment to Little River.

“Significant initiatives in ministry today are possible because of the faithful giving of past generations who wanted their passion for the gospel of Jesus Christ to create opportunities for mission and service long after they were gone.” —Verne Arens, Pastor Emeritus

When can gifts be made to the Endowment Fund?

Gifts may be made at any time. Frequently, they are given in memory of loved ones who have passed away. Such gifts provide a permanent source of support to the church, and they forever memorialize the life and contributions of the departed. Or, you may give to the Endowment Fund to honor a special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, or graduation. You may also give periodically to the Endowment Fund, just as you do for the church’s operating fund.

Many people choose to leave a bequest to the church via a will. Donors also may arrange so-called planned gifts, such as charitable gift annuities, which provide lifetime payments to the donor and benefit the Endowment Fund upon the donor’s death. A gift from your estate is an excellent way to provide support that will continue your annual giving to the church in perpetuity.

Your estate planning professional can advise you and provide for your wishes. Further information is available also from members of the Endowment Fund Committee. Be sure that your lawyer or advisor has the full name and address of this beneficiary: General Endowment Fund of Little River United Church of Christ, 8410 Little River Turnpike, Annandale, Virginia 22003.

What can be given to the Endowment Fund?

Cash, stock, and some property can be given to the Endowment Fund. Appreciated stock and other property held for more than one year make ideal gifts, as they provide a fair market value tax deduction to you, and you do not have to pay tax on the appreciation as you would if you had sold the property. Consult your tax advisor to determine what is best for you.

Endowment Fund Committee

For further information about the purpose and management of the General Endowment Fund, to discuss a gift, or arrange a bequest, please contact Pastor Shelli Poe or a member of the Endowment Fund Committee. Consult the Leadership Roster, your church directory, or call the church office for assistance in reaching a current committee member.