History of the Foundation

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In 2001, the long-range planning committee, also known as the 2001 Committee, and the Committee on Administration finalized the strategic plan that was mandated by the 14th General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.  Vision 21, as the document is now called, was established to set forth the vision, goals, and programs for the future of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.  AlonCalendar Close Upg with the identity, mission, vision, and core values of the EPC, Vision 21 approves two major objectives in the area of organizational development.  First, is to establish a position referred to as the Director of Stewardship.  Second, is to establish the EPC Foundation. The rationale behind these objectives is to offer help and assistance to individuals, churches, and presbyteries to accomplish the funding goals approved by the General Assembly.

In 2004, the financial resources were provided by God through a very generous and anonymous gift, which allowed a search committee to proceed with the hiring process for the first Director of Stewardship for the Evangelical Presbyterian Church.

In March of 2005, after interviewing potential candidates, the Evangelical Presbyterian Church called Del Wensley to serve as the Director of Stewardship. 

In April of 2006, the Committee on Administration approved the corporate charter and bylaws; and authorized the incorporation and establishment of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church Foundation, Inc.  The Board of Directors, which was approved by the 26th General Assembly, has identified four major constituencies:

  • Donors:  To help them meet their charitable goals with maximum impact.
  • Local Churches: To help them establish a financial stewardship ministry, estate and planned giving programs and local church foundations.
  • Presbyteries:   To help them establish funds for designated presbytery projects.
  • Professional Advisors:  To provide information about the various charitable, estate and tax planning options available to their clients.

Late in the year, financial challenges resulting in removing the Director of Stewardship position.  As a result, the foundation has looked to partner with service providers external to the organization to provide administrative and back office support for our planned giving needs.