United Methodist Foundation of Michigan
March, 2021
Observing Lent: Not Just "Giving Up" but Giving Generously

I have observed Lent by giving up all sorts of things. Through the years I’ve given up desserts, caffeine, social media, and watching television. I’ve done this with the intention of spending more time in devotion to God. Sometimes I’ve made good on that intention and sometimes not.

I’ve discovered that despite my lofty “giving up something” plans for Lent, I’ve best prepared my heart for the joy of Easter by joining others in giving.

Is your faith community participating in a Lenten outreach project? In the weeks before Easter, many churches encourage gifts and service for community outreach. Congregations that I have served have changed lives with Lenten gifts to provide food, literacy support, shelter, dental care and clean water. Is there a community need that has been on your heart, a place that cries out for your support?

It may seem counterintuitive to “give” in a season when we are more likely to “give up” something. However, Lent can be a time for extraordinary generosity.

2020 was a Record Year!

Thanks to generous donors, we were able to award over $95,000 in grants and scholarships during 2020.
Help us make 2021 even better-
Five Reasons to Include Stories in Your Offering Talk

Offering talks—even in a digital space—still provide the single best opportunity for you to communicate the impact and life change your church is making. Don’t assume people know how you’re changing lives, or that they will somehow connect the dots

Like any effective strategy, adding stories to your weekly offering talk begins with a clear understanding of why. Joe Park, CEO of Horizons Stewardship, believes if you tell stories effectively and consistently, your core givers will celebrate and lean in, and you’ll inspire others to give for the first time.

Foundation Awarded Platinum Seal of Transparency

The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan was recently recognized for successfully being awarded the 2021 GuideStar Platinum Seal. The Platinum Seal is the highest achievement and recognition available from this highly trusted credentialing organization. GuideStar by Candid is one of the world's largest sources of information about nonprofit organizations. GuideStar is a philanthropic research database that compiles directories and reports on nonprofits that are available to the public. Their mission is to revolutionize philanthropy and philanthropic practices through information.
 
David S. Bell, President and Executive Director, stated, “We are absolutely delighted to have an outside organization recognize the dedication of our staff and the transparency of our policies and practices. GuideStar has long been regarded as a leader in sharing information about non-profit organizations. This 2021 Platinum Seal assures our clients and donors that we exceed standard best practices for non-profit governance and operations.” 
Deadline For Wayne C. Barret Steward Leaders Award Coming Soon

The Wayne C. Barrett Steward Leader Award was established by action of the Board of Directors of the Foundation upon Dr. Barrett’s retirement as President and Executive Director. The purpose of this award is to honor up to four United Methodist congregations across the Michigan Conference for their exemplary stewardship ministry and culture of generosity. Qualified applicants must submit an application prior to March 15th of the year in which they are to be considered for the award.

Don't Miss Out on $2500 for your church. Apply Today!