What is Planned Giving
Planned giving focuses on the future, creating a gift for the church from your estate or investments. Unlike annual pledges or offerings that support daily operations, planned gifts provide long-term support for Epworth’s ministries, missions, and facilities.
Planned Giving is your opportunity to touch the future today.
Romans 8:28
“And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
Types of Planned Gifts
There are several ways to make a lasting gift to Epworth.
Bequests
A bequest passes directly from your will or trust to the church. Gifts may include cash, securities, real estate, or personal property.
Charitable Gift Annuities
A charitable gift annuity provides a guaranteed income for life to the donor and makes a contribution to the church at the end of that term.
Life Insurance
Naming Epworth as a beneficiary on a life insurance policy is a simple and meaningful way to leave a legacy.
Additional Options
Donors may also use instruments such as Pooled Income Funds or Charitable Lead Trusts to meet their philanthropic goals and support the church’s mission.
How Large Should a Gift Be
Your gift should reflect your own circumstances and comfort. Planned gifts are not limited to large estates. Every gift, regardless of size, strengthens Epworth’s mission and ensures the continuation of ministry for generations to come.
Next Steps
Contact the Planned Giving Committee or the church office at 419-531-4236. A committee member will gladly assist you in exploring the best way to support the church’s future.
You may also email plannedgiving@epworth.com.
About the Fund
The Epworth Legacy Endowment Fund (formerly called the Epworth Foundation) was established in 1946 to hold and invest church funds intended for capital and operating support. The Fund also encourages planned giving and ensures that gifts made to Epworth will continue to strengthen and sustain its ministries well into the future.
Purpose and Investment Philosophy
The investment objective of the Legacy Fund is to pursue capital appreciation while maintaining a moderate level of risk and generating reasonable income. The Fund is intended to exist in perpetuity, maintaining assets that support authorized withdrawals while growing in overall value to allow continued support for ministry and outreach.
Governance
The Legacy Fund operates within Epworth’s governance structure. It includes nine trustees elected by the charge conference and five trustees serving ex officio. The Fund is amenable to the Administrative Council and is not separately incorporated.
How the Fund Supports Ministry
Income from the Legacy Fund provides long-term stability for Epworth’s ministries, missions, and facilities. Gifts entrusted to the Fund are invested responsibly to ensure they benefit both the current congregation and future generations of faith.
Questions
Questions about the Epworth Legacy Endowment Fund may be directed to the Epworth Treasurer or the Church Business Office.