A grants update from the United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana

October 2026

Dear Friends and Partners in Ministry,

As we head into the final quarter of 2026, we're thrilled to share the remarkable progress of this year's grant program!


So far, we've awarded $156,389 to 25 UMC churches and affiliated ministries, supporting ministries that span all ages and reach every corner of Louisiana. We're grateful for our churches' faithful work and look forward to our final grant cycle of the year!



Grant Program Updates


Our final grant cycle for 2026 is now open! The application deadline is November 1st, 2026. This is your last opportunity this year to bring your ministry vision to life.


Consultation Services Available:

As always, we're offering free grant consultation services to help you craft a strong application! Whether you're a first-time applicant or need guidance refining your proposal, we're here to help.


Simply email us to schedule your consultation. Let's work together to create a compelling application that showcases your church's mission and impact.




Faith & Fitness


St. Paul's UMC, Monroe


We're excited to highlight one of our 2026 grant recipients making a remarkable difference in their community!



What started as a small group of six has grown into a thriving ministry with 30 people on the roster — and the impact reaches far beyond exercise. See how St. Paul’s UMC in Monroe turned a Chair Aerobics class into an opportunity for fellowship, faith and growing connections within the church.


This is just one example of the creative, compassionate ministries our churches are launching across Louisiana.

Jubilee Louisiana Is Here!


New Opportunity: Jubilee Louisiana

We're excited to announce that, with support of the United Methodist Foundation, the Louisiana Conference of the UMC has launched its Jubilee Initiative—a brand new campaign that will span over the next two years! The Jubilee Initiative represents an innovative approach to grant-making and community transformation for our Conference.


If your church or UMC-affiliated organization is interested in learning more or applying for Jubilee Initiative funding, visit jubileelouisiana.com for complete details. You can also email Britney or contact the Jubilee team directly through the website.


Mark your calendars: Letters of Intent (LOI) and application due dates for the first cycle are approaching. Visit the website for all deadline information and requirements.


EVENT SHOWCASE

A big thank you to the North District Black Church Clergy Cohort for meeting with us in Shreveport this past month as we explored the different resources available through the Foundation.

Grant Writing Tip


When describing your project's impact, use specific, measurable outcomes. Instead of "we will help people," try "we will provide job training to 20 adults in our community" or "we will serve 50 seniors weekly through our new fitness program." Clear metrics help reviewers understand the tangible difference your project will make.


Read more for helpful guidelines and a scorecard for preparing a strong Foundation grant application.

A BIG THANKS!

We'd like to give a big thanks to our fully volunteer Grants Committee —comprised of statewide laity, clergy and retired clergy—who faithfully review each cycle's grants with compassion, thoughtfulness and a spirit of "yes!"


Spread the Word


Know a United Methodist Church or UMC-affiliated ministry/nonprofit doing great work in Louisiana?


Please encourage them to apply for a grant before November 1!


Share this newsletter and help us expand our reach across the Conference.



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Contact Us


Email Britney Winn Lee, Grants Outreach Coordinator

United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana

318.245.0485

www.umf.org/grants


Together, we're making a difference in Louisiana!