There was a special tribute for Anne Martin to mark the conclusion of her three-year tenure as board chair. Anne’s steadying presence proved invaluable as the Foundation navigated post-pandemic recovery, disaffiliation and accompanying challenges.
In a reflection on the Foundation’s history, President David Snipes lifted past chair Sam Smith, who died Jan. 2 at the age of 85. Among his many contributions, Sam championed the construction of our building in Huntersville and helped the Foundation earn its place as a leader in the Connection.
The board also recognized Susan Cothern, who will step down in March to move closer to her parents. As Chief Operating Officer, Susan modernized the Foundation’s building and technology systems as well as its staffing model. Just as importantly, Susan brought a spirit of joy and authenticity that made the office a fulfilling place to work.
The Foundation in 2024 reached an all-time high of $347 million in total assets, a testament not only to strong leadership, but also the trust and faithfulness of those we serve.
Healthy returns enabled the Foundation to contribute $279,000 toward Conference initiatives, with the funds coming from a tithe in the operating budget as well as surplus dollars. Of particular note, the Foundation has made a multi-year commitment to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.
A closer look at ministry areas
In 2024, the Foundation was welcomed to 103 meetings with current or prospective clients and celebrated 16 new clients who joined the family. Partnerships with peer Foundations allow churches across both Carolinas to benefit from competitive-rate loans as low as $50,000 from the UMF Development Fund.
Reynolds Ministries and Programs invests in those who proclaim God’s message of hope. Three distinct clergy cohorts will convene in February for leadership development. The Reynolds Ministry Fund received 81 grant applications totaling $1.75 million, giving the Reynolds Ministry Team an impressive list of ministries to consider.
Under the direction of Caroline Wood, associate director of programs, the Foundation has published a pair of timely study resources for clergy and laity. The Faithful Path…for Now by Rev. Beth Crissman offers a framework to re-imagine ministry amid cultural and institutional change. Blessed are the Peacemakers by Rev. John McGill uses the Lenten journey to explore the role of emotional health in our call and vocation.
The Foundation is blessed to give back in these ways and live into its call to be a ministry of the Church for the Church. As we look ahead to the 2025 Annual Conference in June, we offer gratitude for those who fulfill our mission to build the Church for generations to come.
Above (from left): Outgoing Board Chair Anne Martin; Susan Cothern, Chief Operating Officer; and Wanda Musgrave, Board Member.
Balanced approach protects, grows your investment dollars
We are committed to maintaining discipline, balance, and, most importantly, a long-term focus in the decisions we make on your behalf.
The response continues: Lifting up our neighbors after Helene
As Western North Carolina moves toward the recovery stage, the Foundation is walking alongside partners – ensuring they have resources to fulfill God’s promise of deliverance.
Strong investment returns mean more ministry for those we serve
The Foundation’s four managed investment funds outperformed their respective benchmarks, resulting in a year of strong returns for our clients.
