TVUUC Endowment Fund
The Endowment Fund helps build a strong financial foundation for the future of TVUUC while also providing annual support for special projects and programs that advance the congregation’s mission.
Established by the Congregation in 1994, the Fund was created to strengthen the long-term financial stability of the church and “to ensure that Unitarian Universalist principles are lifted up and applied in the Knoxville region in perpetuity.”
Unlike contributions made through the church’s annual stewardship campaign, gifts to the Endowment Fund are not used for current operating expenses. Instead, they are invested to provide lasting support for future generations.
The Fund grows through both prudent investment management and the generosity of TVUUC members and friends who contribute through lifetime gifts, memorial donations, and bequests in their wills and estate plans.
Each year, the Congregation’s elected Endowment Fund Committee allocates a portion of the Fund’s earnings to support special projects and programs that extend beyond the scope of the annual operating budget. These grants help make possible initiatives that enrich congregational life, strengthen our ministries, and furthur our mission in the broader community. To see the impact of these investments, explore photos and descriptions of Endowment Fund-supported projects and discover how these grants have enriched our congregation and community.
As TVUUC member Marion Von Beck reminds us, “Every little bit helps, and many little bits add up to a lot.” Through many gifts, large and small, the Endowment Fund continues to create a lasting legacy that will support TVUUC for years to come.
GIVE NOW
Have a Great Idea? Apply for Endowment Funding!The TVUUC Endowment Fund is now accepting proposals for non-routine projects and programs to be carried out in 2027. Church committees, staff, and individual members are encouraged to review the Request for Proposals for funding guidelines and eligibility requirements, then submit their ideas using the Endowment Fund Proposal Form. Ideas that benefit the congregation or wider community are welcome. Proposal deadline: October 31, 2026 |
A Legacy of Generosity
We are deeply grateful to the generations of members whose generosity, vision, and commitment have built the TVUUC Endowment Fund. Through their gifts, they have created a lasting legacy that continues to enrich congregational life and support our misssion. Endowment funding makes it possible to invest in innovative programs, special projects, and new opportunities that strengthen our community and help us respond to emerging needs. Because of their foresight and dedication, resources are available today to turn inspiring ideas into meaningful action and to support the vitality of TVUUC for generations to come.See a list of TVUUC members and friends whose generosity has helped build and sustain the Endowment Fund.
Support the Future Through the Endowment
Visit the Endowment Giving page to learn:
- Ways to make a gift to the Endowment Fund
- How to direct your gift to a specific sub-fund or purpose
- How to honor or memorialize a loved one, or celebrate a person, organizastion, or cause that is meaningful to you