Faith communities build enduring legacies

Faith communities have always played a vital role in caring for others and creating community. Now, a growing number of local faith communities are partnering with the Quad Cities Community Foundation to ensure their missions thrive for generations to come.

Faith communities have always played a vital role in caring for others and creating community. Now, a growing number of local faith communities are partnering with the Quad Cities Community Foundation to ensure their missions thrive for generations to come.

In Illinois, First Presbyterian Church of Coal Valley has created an endowment fund and a reserve fund at the Community Foundation designed to sustain their charitable and church work well into the future. Michelle Kahley, a church elder, said the idea emerged after the sale of their manse. “We didn’t want the proceeds to trickle away. We wanted a strong plan that would support the church for the next 50 years.”

With input from their full congregation, they established two funds to support local missions, outreach, and operational needs. “We immediately felt an alignment with the Community Foundation,” Kahley said. “Their local roots, their responsiveness, and their willingness to walk alongside us really stood out.”

Edwards Congregational United Church of Christ in Davenport recently opened a reserve fund structured to serve both their long-term needs and as a home for donor-restricted funds. For a church with a 185-year history of progressive ministry and community outreach, the fund is another step in living out and preserving their values.

David Reinders, chair of Edwards’ endowment committee, said the Community Foundation offered exactly what they needed as their existing fund outgrew a previous model. “We wanted a fiduciary partner we could trust—one who shares our values and commitment to this community. The Community Foundation has provided professional investment stewardship, clear reporting, and the local connection we were looking for.”

Edwards’ funds support everything from scholarships and food pantry outreach to worship music and professional development for their pastor. “These funds allow us to honor the legacy of past donors and empower future ministry,” Reinders said. “We found a partner and a plan that reflect the generosity and commitments of our congregation.”

To date, 23 charitable funds have been established by local faith communities, trusting the Community Foundation to house and professionally manage their endowed funds. “We’re so proud that these community organizations have decided to partner with us,” said Anne Calder, Community Foundation vice president of development. “Our work is about helping them protect the stewardship entrusted to them and magnify their missions, now and in the future.”

To learn how your faith organization could benefit from a local financial partner, reach out to the Community Foundation Development Team at development@QCCommunityFoundation.org or 563-326-2840.

Will Van Camp