frequently asked questions

One of the many blessings of Williamsburg United Methodist Church is its strong and dedicated group of members. The Church recognizes that many members desire to include Williamsburg United Methodist Church in their planned lifetime giving and estate planning programs. To support giving in this way, the church has created The WUMC Endowment: six special endowment funds to which planned gifts can be made.

• THE GENERAL FUND: Income earned on this fund sustains the ministries of education, Christian services, the nurture of children and youth, new and start-up ministry requests, and faith formation for all ages.
• THE THIRD CENTURY FUND: Income earned on this fund maintains the beautiful sanctuary and the various facilities of the Church and enhances the campus for generations to come.
• FRANCES L. RICHARDS MEMORIAL FUND: Income earned on this fund provides financial assistance and support to members of the WUMC church family in their time of need.

• GORDON AND JUDY ANGLES FUND: Income earned on this fund supports the maintenance and upkeep of the WUMC Memorial Garden.

• PIPE ORGAN FUND: Income earned on this fund provides for the maintenance and enhancement of the pipe organ.

• ZIMMER MEMORIAL FUND: Income earned on this fund benefits the general church community.

A new Endowment fund may be named in memory or honor of a designee with a gift of $25,000 or more. Please consult with The Endowment committee for details of establishing a new fund.

Perhaps the greatest reward of giving to The Endowment is the knowledge that the gift, regardless of its size or form, will continue to assist the ministry at Williamsburg United Methodist Church as it proclaims the good news of the Christian faith to generations well into the future.

The best gift is one that is appropriate to your particular passions and circumstances. Gifts of all sizes are important and valued. You may choose to make a gift of cash, qualified charitable distributions, required minimum distributions from an IRA, securities, charitable gift annuities, insurance proceeds or other real or personal property. Your estate may receive a tax deduction for your charitable gift.

In all cases, you should consult with your personal tax and legal advisors to ensure your plan achieves your personal goals. If you would like to make a gift or learn more about The Endowment at WUMC, please contact: WUMC Finance Manager, Mary Ellen Baker at   or (757) 229-1771 EXT 106.

The Endowment Fund of WUMC was established to provide members and friends the opportunity to make charitable gifts that will become a permanent endowment of the church. Income from the Endowment Sub-Funds is intended to supplement programs and ministries of WUMC not funded through the Annual Operating Budget.

Through this grant request, the Endowment Committee seeks funding applications. Completed grant requests must come from an Administrative or Ministry Committee to the WUMC Church Council for review and recommendation. All completed requests recommended by the Church Council will be considered by the Endowment Committee. Requests may be affirmed, modified, or declined by the Endowment Committee.

Please send a completed Grant Request to the Chair of the Church Council. Additional information may be obtained from the Chair of the Endowment Committee.

Questions? Contact the church office at (757) 229-1771. To view/print the Endowment Grant Request Form, click here.