Budget reflects Foundation’s call to be a steadying partner

The 2025 operating budget invests in new forms of ministry, strengthens clergy and lay leadership, and supports recovery work in communities impacted by Helene.

The Board of Directors met Tuesday, Nov. 12 to carry out the business of the Foundation and enjoy a Thanksgiving lunch that has become a tradition. Board members received updates on ministry priorities and measures of financial health. They also approved an operating budget for 2025.

For the fourth consecutive year, the budget includes a 10% tithe of income to the Western North Carolina Conference. The tithe reflects the Foundation’s call to be a faithful partner in the renewal of the United Methodist Church. It’s a way to give thanks for the resources entrusted to us.

“We preach and teach biblical stewardship,” said President David Snipes. “This is about setting an example for those we serve.”

Supporting our Conference

The budget also projects a three-to-five-year commitment toward recovery efforts in Western North Carolina. This support will involve cooperation with the Conference’s new Office of Recovery, disaster response staff, individual churches and the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR).

The Foundation’s leadership development offerings will incorporate a component on emotional intelligence. The adaptation comes after a series of pilot workshops that earned positive feedback from 52 participating WNCC clergy and lay leaders. In times of political and cultural tension, emotional intelligence leads to healthier relationships and fruitfulness in achieving God’s vision.

Priorities outlined in the budget flow from a strategic vision – a blueprint to respond to the needs and aspirations of those we serve. In early 2025, Foundation staff will travel to WNCC districts to share the vision and have fellowship with current and prospective partners.

Among other highlights from the board’s November meeting:

• Foundation managed funds performed well in 2024, again outpacing benchmarks for the long term. Robust growth maximizes resources for our investment partners, allowing them to make greater impact in their communities.
• Since January, the Foundation has held 114 in-person or Zoom conversations with individuals and churches interested in establishing or strengthening relationships.
• The Reynolds Program in Church Leadership, celebrating its 25th anniversary, welcomed a new class of participants from across six conferences in the Southeast Jurisdiction. These clergy will learn ways to leverage their strengths and lead their congregations more effectively.
• The Reynolds Ministry Fund in 2024 awarded 33 grants totaling $445,000. Grants fuel missional social enterprise, outreach to neighbors in need, youth mentoring, community events and more. The program is now accepting applications for the 2025 cycle.

The board heard a devotion from Joseph Navarro, who attends Wofford College with scholarships awarded by the Foundation and United Methodist Higher Education Foundation (UMHEF). Joseph recalled how the congregation of Harrison UMC in Pineville sustained his family during his mom’s cancer journey. Reflecting more than a decade later, Joseph said he feels a responsibility to give back to the Church that gave so much to him. He intends to serve in a lay leadership role while pursuing a career in sports medicine.

With the board adjourned until February, we give thanks for the wisdom of those who guide our mission to build the Church for generations to come.