In 1993, First UMC of Forest City established one the Foundation’s earliest endowment accounts after receiving a $1.6 million bequest. The endowment supports a wide range of causes, from scholarships to housing and utility assistance for families in crisis.
“It’s amazing how many varied ways that our endowment has affected the church and the community,” said Mike Gavin, former chair of the endowment committee. “It’s money that we can put to work. And it’s put us on a good path.”
The bequest came from Robert N. Holmes, whose father, the Rev. Parker Holmes, pastored the Forest City church from 1920-1924. Robert spent his childhood in Forest City and moved to New York in the 1930s. He returned home in 1958 and lived in Forest City for many years before retiring to Clemson, S.C.
Distributions are split evenly among congregational ministry, such as youth and children’s camp scholarships, and mission in the community. Today, steady investment growth enables First UMC to proclaim God’s message of hope in new, impactful ways, as Mike explains in a video spotlight story.
Go paperless! Enroll in ACH for fast, convenient transactions
In an ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and responsiveness, the Financial Services Team is transitioning recurring payments to ACH transfers
Visit the Foundation team at Annual Conference! Here’s how
Visit the Foundation tent for a T-shirt, annual report, and special gift while supplies last. You'll find a cool breeze (we hope) and warm conversation between sessions.
New Chief Operating Officer brings familiarity, passion to role
Rev. Dr. Glenn Kinken will join the Foundation staff as Chief Operating Officer, bringing management expertise and a zeal for innovation to a place he knows well.
