Foundation News: March 2026

Our Gift to You: complimentary estate planning support


Do you have questions about your will or future plans? Through Our Gift to You, the Foundation offers estate planning guidance in partnership with Thompson & Associates, a national leader in estate planning services.


Participants meet with experienced attorney Johni Hays—either virtually or in person—to review or create an estate plan tailored to their goals. After an initial session, you can decide whether to continue the process, which typically includes an additional 5-6 monthly meetings.


There is no cost to participate and no obligation to include a charitable gift. This program is simply our way of helping you gain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind as you plan for the future.


Get started today: email info@iumf.org to schedule your first meeting.

Relief for seminary debt: HELP loans open June 1


Student loan debt can be a heavy burden in ministry—but the Foundation’s HELP (Higher Education Loan Partners) program is designed to provide relief.


Through HELP, eligible pastors serving in the Iowa Annual Conference can refinance student loans at a low 1.5% interest rate, potentially saving hundreds on monthly payments and thousands over time. The program now covers debt from post-ordination and doctoral degrees, expanding support for continued education.


Applications are open annually from June 1 through September 1. To qualify, pastors must have served in the IAC for at least one year, complete the Foundation’s financial education course, and commit to serving for the length of the loan.


Take the next step: Visit our website to learn more and download the application.

Thank you scholarship applicants - and those who make it possible!


IUMF’s Scholarship Committee is excited to be reviewing this year’s applications. We’re inspired by each student’s dedication and look forward to awarding scholarships soon. All applicants will be notified by the end of May—best of luck!


This program is made possible by the generosity of our donors—each one helping open doors for future leaders. Establishing a scholarship fund is a powerful way to make a difference for generations to come. Whether you want to honor a loved one or support students pursuing their calling, IUMF can help you create a fund that reflects your values.


Visit iumf.giftlegacy.com or contact us to get started.


You can also support students today by giving to an existing scholarship on our GIVE website.

Did you know?


April is Financial Literacy Month!


The coming month is the perfect time to focus on building strong financial habits. The Foundation encourages you to take steps to save wisely, invest smartly, plan for retirement, and protect yourself from fraud. Educating yourself now can make a big difference in your financial future.


Explore helpful tools and resources through the OCC’s Financial Literacy Resource Directory.


More resources

Stelter: Step Into Planned Giving: Simple, Sustainable Strategies for Small Nonprofits

Lewis Center: Restoring God's Image through Worship

Horizons: De-Risk Capital Campaigns: A Spiritual Funding Approach

Iowa United Methodist Foundation
515.974.8927 | info@iumf.org https://iumf.org/
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