2021 Impact Report
STEADY ON
In a storm, one of the most difficult things to do is to keep a ship moving toward its desired destination.
It will be buffeted by the wind and waves and all manner of external forces conspiring to push it off course. It is up to the person steering the boat to use his or her experience and knowledge to keep the ship moving in the right direction.
The experiences of 2021 were no less difficult than those faced by a sailor at sea. External factors such as the pandemic, uncertainty in the economy, fears about the world at large and anxiety about the future of The United Methodist Church could have thrown the foundation off course. But thanks to ministry partners like you and an experienced staff
DANIEL S. HAGER Chairperson, Board of Directors
and volunteer board, the foundation’s ministries and services remained sure and steady. That doesn’t mean we have reached our destination, however. 2022 will be no less challenging. There are still anxieties and unknowns, as well as unforeseen events that will occur. But the foundation is well positioned to face those issues with boldness, wisdom and courage because we know we are engaged in ministry to serve God’s Kingdom.
Thank you for allowing us to be on this journey with you.
HIGHLIGHTS
155
Loans to United Methodist churches and agencies
$109.3 million
Value of loans
$6.9 million
Total given to churches and agencies through payments from planned gifts, stocks, grants and investment earnings, plus estimated savings on interest with foundation loans
$51 million
REV. MARK BECKER President
Value of planned gifts managed by the foundation (trusts, donor-advised funds, charitable gift annuities)
$360,000
New grant money awarded
IMPACT REPORT
2021
CARING FOR SPIRIT AND SOUL
HELPING CHURCHES BREATHE
TEAMWORK
INVESTING FOR THE LONG TERM
CELEBRATING THE PAST, COMMITTED TO THE FUTURE
REIMAGINING MINISTRY
NAVIGATING A NEW MONEY CULTURE
A LESSON IN BECOMING FINANCIALLY WISE
FINANCIAL STATEMENT & TOTAL ASSETS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & OFFICERS
CARING FOR SPIRIT AND SOUL
Grace Rogers is grounded and well connected to her faith community, yet she says she is “a mess.” “It feels worse than the usual chaos,” the University of North Florida student said. “But this is common with young people. Most of us recognize … we’re struggling all the time.” The American College Health Association agrees, reporting nearly 60% of students feel overwhelming anxiety. That’s not news to Derrick Scott, executive director of Campus to City Wesley Foundation, the student ministry based at the university. And the COVID pandemic, he says, has made college life even harder. But there’s hope for students, thanks to the Wellness Project. It’s a pilot program led by the campus ministry to provide mental health training to student leaders across the state so they can focus on their own mental health and support their peers. On-demand content will also be available to young adults anywhere. A $100,000 grant from the foundation is making it possible. It’s part of the foundation’s commitment to invest in the next generations. “We must talk about all aspects of life and walk with people,” Scott said. “The Holy Spirit is inviting us to join the work of moving people toward perfection.”
— By Derek Maul
$100,000
Future Generations Fund grant awarded to Project Wellness, a pilot campus ministry mental health initiative
$40,500
Tuition paid on behalf of 18 Sinclair Scholarship recipients
$10,000
Grant to the Rev. Dr. Geraldine McClellan Scholarship Fund
DONATE TO THE FUTURE GENERATIONS FUND:
www.fumf.org/give-now
“In partnership with the foundation, Studio Wesley will (create) relevant content on the topic of mental health that will be available to college-aged young adults anywhere in the country.”
— Derrick Scott, Campus to City Wesley Foundation executive director
Wesley at UCF students emerge from the pandemic and begin to gather again. (WUCF photo/Richie Hartig)
HELPING CHURCHES BREATHE
Before the pandemic hit, the big storms the Rev. Dan Prine and members at Edgewater United Methodist Church in Port Charlotte worried about were those churning in the Gulf. But COVID-19 delivered its own blows. The church lost around 450 weekly worshippers and a projected $216,000 in giving, causing a spending freeze and the closure of a satellite campus. A break in the storm finally came when the church received $40,000 from a special relief fund. The foundation pledged $250,000 to it. The Florida Conference matched it. Prine says it couldn’t have come at a better time. “It’s been a tremendous season of loss and difficulty,” he said. “Any assistance … is greatly appreciated.” The Rev. Jeff Peck at Braden River United Methodist Church in Bradenton agrees. His church received $13,000 to cover lost income from the pandemic and a road project that cut off access to the church.
Both he and Prine say the grants gave their churches room to breathe after months of being on edge. “In the end, God is still blessing us and showing us new ways to reach people,” Peck said. “We’re still here, and we’re still doing good work.”
— By Michelle Bearden
$250,000
Matching grant to Florida Conference for COVID relief fund for churches
$78,000*
Total awarded to 11 active clergy to defray renewal leave costs
$70,000*
Total awarded to 14 newly ordained clergy to defray educational costs
$20,000*
Total clergy of color and culture scholarship funds awarded to four seminary students
*Funds provided through the foundation’s $1 million contribution to the Passing the Torch Fund.
“This is an example of the conference and foundation listening to what is happening to local churches and how they can help. It’s a wonderful and unexpected response.”
— Rev. Dr. Cynthia Weems, South East District Superintendent
Kids at Edgewater UMC, Port Charlotte, learn about self-control and making good choices. (FUMF photo/Mark Odell)
Build,
Habitat for Humanity project. (FUMF photo/Mark Odell)
TEAMWORK
Managing one endowment fund could be seen as a welcome challenge for a church team. Overseeing two or three might be downright overwhelming. Bruce Trembly is happy the 20 endowments at First United Methodist Church in Stuart are invested with the foundation. As the church’s endowment chairperson, he says it makes his job easier. Of the church’s $2 million in deposits with the foundation, 80% are invested in the foundation’s investment funds. “We only use the interest and leave the principle, which means the original gift just keeps growing and blessing us and others,” Trembly said. That strategy enables the church to fund campus projects and community ministries — like renovating church rooms so they can serve as temporary residences for homeless families and buying curriculum and iPads for the church’s preschool, which lost revenue during the COVID shutdown. It also provides a financial cushion for the future and peace of mind if the economy falters or emergencies arise. “Being good stewards of these gifts and donations is what we’re supposed to do,” Trembly said. “And with the foundation’s finance team, I have nothing but confidence in their management of our funds.”
— By Michelle Bearden
$111.02 million
Total investments
$84.09 million
Investments in largest fund — balanced growth
$61.7 million
Total invested by churches, agencies, Florida Conference
268
Number of accounts
“The benefactors put their faith in us to do the right thing with their gift, and the foundation provides the expertise and confidence to do just that.”
— Rev. Jeff Bennett, First United Methodist Church, Stuart
Scouts make car wash signs at FUMC, Stuart, in a classroom remodeled with proceeds from the church’s endowment fund. (FUMCS photo/Cynthia Reynolds)
INVESTING FOR THE LONG TERM
Conservative, balanced, more aggressive. The foundation’s investment funds now provide even more options to meet the ministry needs of churches and agencies. Switching to new investment consultant CAPTRUST Financial Advisors and revising the funds made that possible. “We still offer long-term, diversified investments, but we also want to provide something for our ministry partners who want returns that mimic the equity markets,” said the Rev. Mark Becker, the foundation’s president. In addition to balanced and aggressive growth funds, that something is the new long-term fund, designed for churches wanting greater returns. Those results are possible because 75% of the fund’s assets are in U.S. and international stocks, with the rest in alternatives, like commodities and real estate. “We understand that our valued partners demand an investment option that offers a higher return in the short run, while maintaining a long-term investment horizon for the vast bulk of our investments.” The switch to CAPTRUST and changes to the funds meet that goal. And it’s all guided by social principles. The foundation’s commitment to investing in a socially responsible way remains the same.
— By Connor Murphy
$3.32 million
Year-end balance of assets in the foundation’s new long-term fund
Long-term fund asset allocation
Recertified
Recertified with the Investment Steward Certification, a seal of approval from the Centre for Fiduciary Excellence
“The foundation helped us to reimagine how we could invest the resources of our church to fund the mission and ministry … in a way that will serve generations to come.”
—
Rev. Jose Nieves, First United Methodist Church, Kissimmee
CELEBRATING
THE PAST, COMMITTED TO THE FUTURE
In a pandemic year when churches faced many challenges, First United Methodist Church in Auburndale had reasons to celebrate. The church observed its centennial and paid off a $600,000 loan from the foundation — five years early. The loan helped the church upgrade its campus and build a 6,000-squarefoot education center so it could better serve the community. “We’re officially free of that debt,” the Rev. Jim Mitchell said. “That lifts a financial burden … and gives us a lot more flexibility for our future.” That future includes strengthening outreach efforts with nearby schools and a new development targeting firsttime homeowners and young families. “We’re located in one of the most dynamic, growing areas of Florida,” church member Mike Wnek said. “We have the space now. We can serve a need that this area could use.” And by offering more programs for young people, he says the church is nurturing future believers. Member Nancy Langston says it’s time to sit down and determine next steps. Paying off the loan and completing a capital campaign have given the church $55,000 more to work with each year. “Whatever we decide, I have all the confidence we will be successful,” she said, “because that’s the kind of congregation we (are).”
— By Michelle Bearden
955
Individuals invested in the Development Fund
$67.5 million
Total invested by individuals
$1.3 million
Interest individuals earned 1.75%, 3.75%
Fourth quarter investor interest rate, loan interest rate
“We were able to accomplish worthwhile goals from a lender with a strong interest in our mission. It really was a good experience, almost like working with a family member.”
— Rev. Jim Mitchell, First United Methodist Church,
Auburndale
Members at First UMC, Auburndale, burn their mortgage note during their centennial celebration. (FUMF photo/Connor Murphy)
The Rev. Emily Sterling-Strongman, a former member, preaches during the centennial celebration at First UMC, Auburndale. (FUMF photo/Connor Murphy)
REIMAGINING MINISTRY
When the Rev. Rafe Vigil arrived at New Horizon United Methodist Church in Southwest Ranches in 2014, he says he saw a lot of potential, particularly with younger generations. The church’s location in fastgrowing Broward County guaranteed a diverse population of new immigrants, families and suburbanites fleeing cities.
“There were so many opportunities for evangelization,” he said. “Our plan from the beginning was to get … more involved in ministries outside our own four walls.” That vision has taken shape at the church, which celebrated its 40th anniversary and dedicated a 5,000-square-foot mission building, made possible with a $1.4 million foundation loan.
Now there’s more space for ministry and community outreach. “We have a very robust membership that is committed to making this happen,” said Paul Pannier, building committee chairperson. “But having the financial backing of the foundation and its support of us taking this necessary step make a big difference.” Vigil believes the ministry possibilities are endless. “If you’re going to move forward, you can’t get stuck in a rut or hang on to tradition alone,” he said. “It’s time for the greater church to accept we’re in a rebirth and to go with it.”
— By Michelle Bearden
$1.2 million
Estimated interest churches and agencies saved with foundation loans versus commercial loans (with a market average of 5 percent interest)
770
Number of Development Fund accounts held by churches, other entities
$97.7 million
Total invested by churches, other entities $1.8 million
Interest churches earned
“We feel very fortunate to have this option, instead of going to the bank. We know the foundation is invested in our vision to expand and grow the church. We’re not just customers. We are partners.”
— Paul Pannier,
New Horizon United Methodist Church, Southwest Ranches
Members at New Horizon UMC, Southwest Ranches, distribute food during the pandemic. (NHSWR photo)
NAVIGATING A NEW MONEY CULTURE
Discerning how to minister in a new country wasn’t the only challenge for the Rev. Rodolfo Martinez. He also had to learn new financial habits. After serving with the Methodist Church in Cuba and as a missionary in Peru, the 49-year-old became pastor at Casa Vida Misión Metodista Unida in WahnetaWinter Haven. Once in the United States, Martinez and his family had to navigate a new money culture — one he calls a “system of dollars and cents.” “All my life I study theology, mission, Bible,” he said, “but never financial education.” The Rev. John Peterson, the foundation’s vice president of stewardship and education, is giving him one. Peterson provides financial planning to clergy at no cost. Martinez wanted to better manage his resources and have enough money in retirement. “(John) reviewed the current financial reality,” he said. “He drew a projected calculation line for the time of our retirement, with three scenarios.” It was practical and relational counsel. “Rev. Peterson was very pastoral,” Martinez said. “(He encouraged) us to continue building solid foundations with specific goals.” Now, Martinez and his family are confident they’ll have a healthy financial future.
— By Derek Maul
$325,852
Total loaned since 2019 to 10 clergy through the Fresh Start low-interest debt consolidation loan program
23
Number of free financial planning consultations for candidates for ministry and active clergy
“We feel relief and now have more hope to continue growing with financial health.”
—
Rev. Rodolfo Martinez
Members greet each other after worship at Casa Vida Misión Metodista Unida, Wahneta-Winter Haven. (FUMF photo/Connor Murphy)
Members worship at Casa Vida Misión Metodista Unida, Wahneta-Winter Haven. (FUMF photo/Connor Murphy)
Rev. Rodolfo Martinez preaches at Casa Vida Misión Metodista Unida, Wahneta-Winter Haven. (FUMF photo/Connor Murphy)
A LESSON IN BECOMING FINANCIALLY WISE
Chris Carlson has a message for other college students: make careful financial plans. “Money doesn’t do anything just sitting there,” he said. “It’s a long game.” The 21-year-old senior from St. Andrews United Methodist Church in Brandon said his parents instilled the importance of financial planning early on. But he’s still learning, and that’s one reason he and 29 other students attended a financial planning seminar sponsored by Wesley at UCF, the United Methodist student ministry at the University of Central Florida. The Rev. Mark Becker, the foundation’s president, led the session. He cautioned the students about educational debt and stressed the importance of having sound financial habits “even when you don’t have much income.” Carlson draws a direct line between that advice and achieving his goals. He’s also thinking about his impact on future generations. “Tithing and giving back to my kids and grandkids … if I’m not stable myself, I would find it difficult to justify giving money away,” he said. Senior Matthew Emerick says Becker made the information interesting and accessible. And like Becker, he has hope for his peers. “Our generation has a good head on our shoulders,” he said.
— By Derek Maul
296
Number of calls, meetings and emails with church members and district leaders offering assistance with stewardship initiatives
13
Number of workshops and presentations provided to churches on a variety of topics — clergy taxes and finances, family budgeting, end-of-life issues, foundation services
“I thought, here’s someone who knows more than I do. … Mark Becker helped me understand that looking at my options means leveraging whatever resources I have.”
— Chris Carlson, Wesley at UCF student
at UCF students pray after a group baptism at Warren Willis United Methodist Camp. (WUCF photo/Richie Hartig)
Although his parents taught him well, Chris Carlson attended the financial planning session for Wesley at UCF students because he’s “still learning.” (Chris Carlson photo) Matthew Emerick (bottom, third from right) said the information from the financial planning session for Wesley at UCF students was interesting and accessible. (WUCF photo)
$375,000,000
$350,000,000
$325,000,000
$300,000,000
$275,000,000
$250,000,000
$225,000,000
$200,000,000
$175,000,000
$150,000,000
$125,000,000
$100,000,000
$75,000,000
$50,000,000
$25,000,000 INVESTMENT FUNDS BALANCES Ending Balance Dec. 31, 2021
$2,077,824 Cautious $84,093,471 Balanced Growth $14,635,126 Aggressive Growth $3,319,365 Long-term Fund $4,890,872 Charitable Gift Annuity $111,016,658 TOTAL
BOARD MEMBERS (June 2021-June 2022)
Board members serve three-year terms for a maximum of nine years.
REV. LAWRENCE BARRINER
Simpson Memorial UMC, Jacksonville
STEPHEN R. BELL MS
Director of Development and Alumni Relations
Florida Southern College
First UMC, Lakeland
REV. ROBERT BLEDSOE
Trinity UMC, Bradenton
KIM CLARKE
Certified Public Accountant
Hyde Park UMC, Tampa
C. RONALD COLEMAN JR.
SECRETARY
President/CEO
Baronco Management Consultants Inc.
Calvary UMC, Orange Park
MARKITA COOPER
Professor, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
Florida A&M University College of Law
Peace UMC, Orlando
BRUCE FORD
Vice President
WHA Design
Cornerstone UMC, Cutler Bay
WILLIAM FRYE JR.
President
Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches Inc.
Youth Ranch Chapel, Boys Ranch, Live Oak
DANIEL S. HAGER
CHAIRPERSON
Chairman and CEO
First Southern Bank
Trinity UMC, Bradenton
LARRY HANNAH
VICE CHAIRPERSON
President, Demeter Energy LLC
Chairman, OMNI AI LLC
Boca Grande Lighthouse UMC
JERRY HARALSON
President The Haralson Group
First UMC, Orlando
EMMA HARMON
Music Educator, Orange County Public Schools
Director of Student Ministries
Peace UMC, Orlando
JOSEPH HURT
Visiting Professor of Law
Florida A&M University College of Law
First UMC, Winter Park
PHYLLIS KLOCK
Retired President/Chief Operating Officer
Comp Benefits Corporation
Asbury UMC, Maitland
REV. DR. SHERYL MARKS-WILLIAMS
Community UMC, Daytona Beach
REV. RICHARD NUSSEL
Ruskin UMC
FELIX RIVERA
Senior Buyer/Planner
Captiva Spine Inc.
First UMC, Port St. Lucie
BEN SIMMONS
Retired CPA and Partner
Deloitte & Touche
Cypress Lake UMC, Fort Myers
REV. CESAR VILLAFAÑA
Wesley Hispanic UMC, Coral Gables
REV. DR. DENNIS VLASSIS
Retired Executive Director
Community Christian Counseling Center of Palm Beach Gardens
Trinity UMC, Palm Beach Gardens
JANE ZODY
Accounting Information Systems Manager
Florida State Board of Administration
Bethel UMC, Tallahassee
NONVOTING, EX-OFFICIO DIRECTORS
FLORIDA CONFERENCE
BISHOP KENNETH H. CARTER JR.
REV. DR. SHARON AUSTIN
Director, Connectional and Justice Ministries
CRAIG SMELSER
Treasurer
STAFF OFFICERS
GINNY GARSKE
ASSISTANT SECRETARY
MARGARET COX
TREASURER
REV. MARK BECKER
PRESIDENT
ANDY CRASKE
PAM HICKS
TITA PARHAM
REV. JOHN PETERSON
VICE PRESIDENTS
450 Martin L King Jr Avenue Lakeland, FL 33815
Pisgah UMC sanctuary. (PUMC photo/Stacy Prato)