Legacy Fund: FAQs
What is the Legacy Ministry of Crossroads Church of Perry?
The Legacy Ministry, launched in 2015, is a committee whose purpose is to secure funding for the future mission and ministry of Crossroads. Already our Legacy Ministry has set up funds to support children’s ministries, youth ministries, facilities and other needs. If you would like to make an endowment for the general purposes of our church, you may give to the General Endowment Fund. Your Legacy Ministry, through its benevolent donors, helps to ensure that Crossroads will be able to continue its vision for ministry in years to come.
By act of a Charge Conference Resolution, the Crossroads Permanent Endowment Fund (the Fund) was established and shall be operated exclusively for charitable purposes. The Fund exists to provide members and friends the opportunity to make charitable gifts to Crossroads Church of Perry, that will become a permanent endowment for financial support and a living memorial. The Fund is intended for Church purposes which are not funded through the annual operating budget; however, gifts which intend to supplement programs and ministries are appropriate. Your Legacy Ministry, through its benevolent donors, helps to ensure that Crossroads will be able to continue its vision for ministry in years to come.
The Georgia United Methodist Foundation has been appointed the institutional custodian of the Fund to fulfill the goal of the Legacy Ministry to act as a socially responsible investor.
How does my commitment to Crossroads’ annual giving differ from a gift to the Legacy Ministry of Crossroads?
The Legacy Ministry, through its funds at The Georgia Methodist Foundation, “Secures the Future” of Crossroads Church of Perry. The vision is the same … partnering with people to grow as followers of Jesus Christ. What differs is the time-frame. While annual giving supports the operational expenses of the Church and funds the annual budget, the Foundation offers a way for the church to address needs beyond those contained in the annual budget through our Endowment Fund.
Your contributions to the Foundation will allow the church to address needs of facilities, missions and ministries beyond what the annual giving will allow. As the Foundation assets grow and are distributed, the Church’s missions and ministry can grow beyond the annual giving.
How can I donate?
You will typically hear about giving to charity through your will or trust, but there are many easy ways to remember Crossroads in your planned giving that do not require changes to your will or trust. Making Crossroads Church of Perry the designated beneficiary of your life insurance policies, 401(k), IRA, and brokerage accounts is a simple, quick, and inexpensive way to achieve your charitable goals. Gift types vary and Crossroads is equipped to accept all forms of assets – other types of assets include, but not limited to, real estate, personal property, and direct stock transfers.
If interested, let us know. A member of our Legacy Ministry team is happy to discuss your charitable desires with you and/or your advisors. Simply complete the Legacy Gift Confirmation Form to inform us of your planned gift and its desired use when it’s received in the future.
Does Crossroads Church of Perry accept gifts during the life of the donor?
Crossroads gives donors the option for charitable giving during life as well as an outlet for giving at death. Donors who give during life get to see the benefits of their gifts. Some examples of gifts during your life are cash, stocks and bonds, property, etc.
I have already established a will. How do I include Crossroads in my future gift plans?
In regards to a will or trust, often times a small amendment can be made to your existing estate plan, but some circumstances require more. If your current planned gifts include Crossroads Church of Perry, let us know so we can fully understand your intentions. See also the Ways to Give materials for a more in depth look.
Can I start a new fund with my own donor intent?
Yes. Crossroads' Legacy Ministry follows donor input to set up funds that support funding for missions, ministries, and future needs. Each potential gift/fund is subject to the approval of Crossroads' Legacy Ministry team on behalf of Crossroads Church of Perry.
What is the minimum donation?
There is no minimum donation to give to our already-established endowment funds. All gifts are welcome. If a donor wants to establish a new fund, there is a minimum gift requirement of $20,000. This can come from one donor or a combination of donors. Crossroads will work with donors in the design of a donor fund that fulfills their wishes while contributing to the Legacy Ministry’s charge.
What if I change my mind?
Until the gift is made (assets transferred), it is only a declaration of intent. If your intent changes at anytime, you can modify the gift. Crossroads recognizes that donor intent changes over time and can accommodate those changes.
Is there any tax benefit to donating to Crossroads Church of Perry?
Yes. Similar to the tax benefits from annual giving to Crossroads and other charities, you will realize a tax savings based on your giving. We encourage you to consult your tax advisor.
What do I do if I have already remembered Crossroads in my will?
Please let us know if you plan to remember our church in your will or estate plan. We want to thank you. Contact Lori Hardy or complete the online Legacy Gift Confirmation Form and return it to her.