News & opportunities from IUMF:

LAST CALL for HELP loan applicants

If you're an Iowa pastor carrying student or seminary loan debt, there's still time to apply for IUMF's HELP (Higher Education Loan Partners) program - but the deadline is just one week away.

Through HELP, eligible pastors serving in the Iowa Annual Conference can refinance educational loans at a low 2.5% interest rate, potentially saving thousands in interest payments. Debt from post-ordination and doctoral degrees can be included, too.

Applications are due September 1, so don't miss this opportunity to ease the burden of student loan payments. Download an application on our website today!

Celebrating IUMF's 2026-2027 scholarship recipients

ICYMI: we're excited to announce that our 2026-2027 scholarship winners have been selected! This year, the Foundation is awarding more than $450,000 to 91 outstanding students across Iowa. These students have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, service, and a commitment to their communities - and we're honored to support them as they pursue their educational goals.

Visit our website to view the full list of recipients and join us in congratulating them on their achievements. We also want to say a big THANK YOU to all of the donors who make these scholarships possible!

If you applied this year but weren't selected, we encourage you not to give up! Scholarships will open on December 1, and we hope you'll consider applying again.

Carma Mohler grants open NOW

Is your church or organization working to address hunger in Iowa? The Carma Mohler Grant program provides funding to UM-affiliated ministries and groups helping combat food insecurity in our communities.

Past grant recipients include food pantries, backpack programs, community gardens, and other outreach efforts making a meaningful difference.

Applications are open through October 1. If you are part of an organization working to address hunger, we invite you to review the grant criteria and download an application on our website.

Meet the "Docs" behind Pair-a-Docs

Looking to deepen your understanding of gift planning and the future of philanthropy? The Pair-a-Docs podcast brings together two leading voices in fundraising - Dr. Russell James and Dr. Eddie Thompson - to explore the research, wisdom, and real-world challenges that shape charitable giving.

In the first episode, "Are Charities Dropping the Ball on Gift Planning?", the Docs discuss why organizations may unintentionally miss opportunities to help donors make gifts - and what fundraisers can do differently.

Dr. James offers a wealth of free, research-driven resources on his website. And for those interested in estate planning, IUMF partners with Thompson & Associates (Dr. Thompson's firm) to provide Our Gift to You, free consultation sessions with an industry expert.

More resources

Lewis Center: The Rhythms that Sustain Ministry

Stelter: Want Consistency and Reach? Integrated Marketing to the Rescue!

Thompson & Associates: The Great Donor Decline Isn't the Crisis You Think It Is

Horizons: Three Signs You're Ready for a Capital Campaign