Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who should make a Legacy Gift? Any person, young or old, who would like to create a legacy through The Ark Church. A gift can be structured for nearly any circumstance. The best gift is one that fits your individual situation and reflects your values.
2. Isn't the Legacy Foundation only for large gifts or wealthy people? No. A gift of any size is significant and important because it represents you. All gifts are invested into the ministry of The Ark Church and will make an impact.
3. How will my gift be used? It will be invested in the Legacy Foundation endowment, which is like The Ark's savings account. Since the intent is for the principal not to be spent, the income from your gift will continue to support The Ark Church for years to come. Gifts are used to help The Ark fulfill its mission and for capital improvements (building and property). Although The Ark prefers unrestricted gifts so that they may be deployed as needed, a donor may elect to direct a gift to a specific program or initiative if desired (note: this needs to be in writing at the time of the gift and is subject to approval by the Foundation Committee.)
4. Who manages the Foundation? The Board of Directors of The Ark Church manage the Foundation, and selects a committee of up to five members to assist it.
5. What are the goals of the Legacy Foundation? To spend the income, preserve principal, and protect against inflation. It provides indispensable support to The Ark's annual and long-term budgets.
6. What happens to my Legacy Gift when The Ark receives it? The Board of Directors and Foundation Committee will invest the gift in one of the Foundation's funds. An unrestricted gift is preferred because it provides the most flexibility for future needs.
7. Can I direct where my gift is invested? As mentioned above, The Ark Church prefers an unrestricted gift because of its flexibility. However, a donor may direct a gift to a Designated Fund (Capital or Ministry Fund).
Capital - used for the purchase of new or improvements of existing buildings, land, or equipment
Ministry - used to benefit the various ministries of The Ark
8. What are the ministries that comprise the Foundation Ministry Funds? World Missions, Outreach, Music, Children, Youth, Seniors - all may receive support from the Foundation.
9. May I make a gift in memory of someone? You may make a Legacy Gift in memory of a loved one. Memorials are a great way to carry someones values and work forward with a lasting legacy.
10. How will I be recognized for my Legacy Gift? We believe the greatest recognition comes from God. Therefore we will recognize your gift privately. Should we feel led that "your story" is something to share with the greater church, only with your approval would we do so.
11. I prefer to keep my gift and / or plans confidential - can I do this? Yes. The Ark Church respects a donor's desire for confidentiality and anonymity. Gift amounts are never made public. And, if you indicate so in writing, The Ark will not include your name on any listing of Legacy donors.
12. Who can help me decide how to make a Legacy Gift? Contact the church staff at the Legacy Foundation, as a first step. We can work with you to discuss your objectives and put you in touch with additional resource people/local professionals as needed. You should always consult with your financial and/or attorney for specific legal or financial advice for your particular circumstances. The role of The Ark Church is not to provide professional advice, but rather to help you identify possible ways to make a gift that reflect your values.
13. I'm not sure I will have enough money to last my lifetime. Can I still make a Legacy Gift? Perhaps the easiest way to make a gift is to create a bequest in a will that simply designates some percentage, or dollar amount, of the remaining estate to The Ark Church. In addition, certain annuity vehicles can provide income during a donor's lifetime, which can be a significant help to the donor's current circumstances. Contact the Legacy Foundation or visit the The Ark Church's website for bequest language to share with your attorney, or to explore an annuity.
14. If I make a legacy gift, should I still tithe? Yes. Generally speaking, a Legacy Gift is considered an "ultimate gift," i.e. over and above our tithe.