Gratitude in Action
Our founders had one mission when they created The Endowment Board in 1891, and that was to support our beloved retirees. That support began in the way of pension contributions, and has morphed into everything from healthcare cost assistance to fellowship events.
Although the world has changed since 1891, the need for resources to support our clergy remains and the definition of that need is ever-evolving. Each year, The Endowment Board grants the Board of Pensions (BOP) funds to help retirees cover the financial gap that emerges when Medicare falls short. With the increasing cost of healthcare, this gap is growing. The support our clergy get from The Endowment Board is more crucial than ever to their health, comfort, and security.
You can support the ministry of The Endowment Board by making a tax deductible donation. We offer a variety of ways to give including cash, pledges, real estate, life insurance, stocks, pooled income fund contributions, obituary memorials, honorariums, or bequest through a will. Whatever your path, you can be sure that your generosity will perpetuate inter-generational equity for years to come. Check out our annual stewardship report to see how our donor funds were used in fiscal year 2023/2024: Stewardship Report 2023/2024
2024 Annual Christmas Tree of Light Tributes:
Fund Designation Opportunities
When you make a donation to The Endowment Board, you have four funds you may choose to direct your gift towards – the Shepherd Fund, the Healthcare Fund, the Wisdom in Scholarship and Education (WISE) Fund, or the Area of Greatest Need.
The Shepherd Fund
The Shepherd Fund offsets costs for retired clergy and spouses in times of need, i.e. emergency, family crisis, financial, and/or a situation in which financial relief is deemed necessary. The Shepherd Fund was established in 2021 in celebration of The Endowment Board’s 130th jubilee, in homage to The Endowment Board’s first donors (Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Shepherd), and the $2 million gift milestone to Board of Pensions. You may read more about the Shepherd Fund by following the link: Executive-Summary.pdf
The Healthcare Fund
The Healthcare Fund helps contribute to the $2M annual grant to the Conference Board of Pensions. These funds help retirees cover the financial gap that emerges when Medicare falls short. Some of the funds are distributed via an HRA card that retirees and spouses can use to cover any medical expenses, including their Medicare Part B premiums.
The Wisdom in Scholarship & Education Fund (WISE)
The Wisdom in Scholarship & Education Fund (WISE) was established in 2025 to ensure all retired clergy have access to continuing education and spiritual direction. Clergy are lifelong learners, and finances should not be a roadblock to intellectual development in their retirement years.
The Area of Greatest Need
The Area of Greatest need leaves the designation up to the discretion of The Endowment Board, and the highest priority at the time the gift is made.
Create a Legacy with Us
Planned gifts create a unique opportunity for donors to make a gift that will continue beyond their earthly life, satisfy their charitable goals, and create an income stream for the remainder of their life. A planned gift allows donors to make a larger contribution without undue financial sacrifice. If you are interested in learning more about our planned giving vehicles, we would love to hear from you. We can be reached via email at Gratitude@endowbd.org, or phone at (209) 472-7288. In the meantime, check out the informational video below about our Pooled Income Fund…an accessible planned giving vehicle for donors of all types.
Gratitude
“Gratitude” by sculptor Roger Berry, was unveiled on October 28, 2015 in front of The Endowment Board’s corporate office in Stockton, California. The circular shape of the sculpture symbolizes the infinite generosity of the clergy and the selflessness of their supporters. The permanent structure serves as an everlasting tribute to our retired clergy, their lifetime of service, and all who continue to serve them.