Giving - EndowmentS
additional resources

The following resources provide reference information about several distinct aspects of endowment fund management. However, the literature and research in this field is immense. If your congregation anticipates starting an endowment or strengthening an existing one, please feel free to call the Canon for Development, Mike Stephenson, at 312/751-6725 for additional guidance.

Regarding Endowments: A Resource from the Chicago Episcopal Church Center-This packet features an extensive selection of materials compiled by the Chicago Episcopal Church Center for the benefit of clergy and congregational leaders considering beginning an endowment, evaluating a capital campaign to augment an endowment, or seeking additional guidance about endowment management. Part A is composed of seven documents which jointly offer an introduction to church endowments. Part B contains three parts detailing endowment distributions, legal aspects of endowments, and information about the Diocesan Foundation. Part C offers nine sample forms, bylaws, and letters that offer ideas for crafting customized versions of administrative documents associated with endowments.

Building a Major Gifts Program (PowerPoint)-Relying upon the experience of the Chicago Diocesan staff in implementing a new endowment program, this presentation offers suggestions for identifying, developing relationships with, and asking potential donors for large contributions.

Endowment Strategies-This article from a supplement to the Chronicle of Higher Education & the Chronicle of Philanthropy suggests the advantages of endowments with respect to historical market realities.

Starting an Endowment-This article from the Chronicle of Philanthropy articulates some rationale for not-for-profit endowments.

Endowment Fund Management Primer-This article is oriented toward financial professionals and provides a more in-depth study of key church-related endowment management topics.

The Common Fund of the Diocesan Foundation-This page provides information about a significant financial vehicle of the Diocese of Chicago.

Recommended Reading-Endowments