The fund delivered a return of 17.66% for investors in 2025. When compared against a peer group of endowments and foundations with between $100 million and $1 billion in total assets, the Diversified Fund’s performance has ranked in the top decile at the 1-, 3-, 7-, 10-, 15-, and 18-year marks.
About 80% of assets managed by the Foundation are in the Diversified Fund, including our own permanently restricted endowments. It’s one of six investment options offering varying levels of risk exposure. The others are Income Only, Conservative, Balanced, All Equity, and the UMF Development Fund, currently returning 3.75% to investors – a rate competitive with a savings account, money market or CD.
Formula for success
Members of the Investment Team attribute their success to a tradition of rigorous debate and analysis. Another factor is the team’s longstanding relationship with Callan, an employee-owned, independent firm that serves as the Foundation’s investment consultant.
“This ranking honors the many hands that forged a sound investment process over the years – including the staff, past and present committee members, and our partner Callan,” said Team Leader Steve Wilson. “While we are grateful for these results, our focus turns to the next 10+ years, which begin at 0%.”
The Diversified Fund (70% stock and 30% fixed income) is designed to meet the investment objectives for endowments:
The Investment Team (pictured below at a quarterly meeting) recommends a 4% spending policy for endowments in the Diversified Fund, a threshold to ensure funds will be available in perpetuity while allowing for an annual disbursement. Clients have the freedom to utilize whatever spending policy best meets their financial needs. Since 2008, the Foundation has adhered to the 4% level for its own permanently restricted endowments. Click here to see the Investment Policy Statement.
The United Methodist Foundation of Western North Carolina, Inc. does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. It is recommended that current and prospective clients of the Foundation seek advice from their respective professional(s) prior to engaging in any contractual relationship. Past investment fund performance does not guarantee future results.
United Methodists work to preserve legal aid for immigrants
The roots of this effort go back to February when members of the WNCC’s Blue Ridge District traveled to Washington, D.C. for a march against immigration injustice. Four months later, the group turned its message into action.
Foundation will host workshop for clergy, lay persons
The Foundation will host a workshop on Stewardship in the Black Church led by Rev. Melvin Amerson, a nationally recognized speaker and author of numerous books on faith and generosity.
From passion to purpose: How a team hears and values the wisdom of every voice
One person's professional development may not seem like a game changer. But Maggie Armstrong now has a set of practices she can infuse into the work of Disaster Ministries. Healthy communication means greater capacity to do God's work.
