Gifts That Keep On Giving...OCC's Endowment Fund

What is the Endowment Fund that I keep hearing about?


The Endowment Fund of Okemos Community Church is an investment account funded by member gifts. Earnings from the account are a source of funds for special projects that further the mission and work of the church or alternatively could serve as a hedge against challenging economic times. The Fund is segregated from other church monies and is managed by the Endowment Committee.


Further, it is intended to complete the financial foundation of the church as it complements the annual budget and the capital campaign fund by serving a different purpose.

  • How is ENDOWMENT giving different from other types of church giving?

    The difference between endowment funds and other types of funds, such as operating or capital funds, is that assets are invested in perpetuity. Other gifts to the church are spent shortly after they are received. The Endowment Fund is intended to provide a lasting financial base which will nourish the church's programs and activities over multiple years. It allows the church to broaden its vision and to create new programs and ministries of value to the church. Donating to Endowment is a way to make a gift that maintains its purchasing power over time while supporting the church continually.

  • How does the Endowment Fund impact the church?

    Money from the Endowment Fund is used to support grant requests submitted by church leaders and committees. It enables OCC to expand its religious, charitable and benevolent work beyond what is possible through its operating funds, mission funds, and capital-campaign funds. Endowment has supported Okemos Community Church year after year for more than 20 years. Its impact on the church is quite impressive.

    To find a list of project that have been funded by Endowment since 1989, CLICK HERE

  • How can I support the endowment fund?

    Gifts of cash (most common), stocks, bonds, real estate, or personal  property. 


    Gifts IN MEMORY or IN HONOR of a family member or friend, or in  celebration of special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries,  graduations, etc). 


    A bequest through your final Will & Testament. Your attorney can  write an amendment to your Will that includes a bequest to OCC’s Endowment Fund. 


    Name the Endowment Fund as a beneficiary in a life insurance policy  or retirement plan (IRA, 401(k), 403(b), etc.). 


    There may be tax advantages for donors. You are encouraged to seek  professional tax and legal advice in putting together a plan that is best suited to your individual situation and goals.

  • Can I contribute to the Fund indirectlY?

    Yes.  You can support the Community Foundation and the church at the same time by designating your contribution to fund number 779 - Okemos Community Church Endowment Fund.  Your gift will be invested and administered by the Foundation with income distributed to the Endowment Fund annually.  Gifts to the Foundation can be made on-line by visiting their website at: http://www.ourcommunity.org or by mailing them a check.

  • How Can I get More information?

    For more information about making current and future gifts to the Endowment Fund, you can contact any member of the Endowment Committee, or the Pastor. Contact the church office (517-349-4220) for the name of Endowment Committee contacts.