First Foundation was established in 1965 to support the ministry of the First United Methodist Church of Madison. We encourage, receive, and distribute donations and gifts to various ministries throughout the year. First Foundation is available to members and friends of First United Methodist Church who want to make a gift that will last a lifetime and beyond.
Our Mission
“To serve the First United Methodist Church, Madison and its ministries by inviting, accepting, investing and administering enduring gifts from members and friends of the Church.”
What We Do
First Foundation accepts and invests financial gifts from members and friends of the church. All foundation assets are considered endowed funds, unless specifically stated otherwise by the Fund Donor Agreement. First Foundation is a vital partner for funding the church’s ministries. Every year, the foundation board reviews the funds’ investment performance, and determines what percentage of fund earnings can be distributed to First Church. First Church commits to using distributions from each fund in support of that fund’s designated ministry area.
The Power of Generosity
As of February 4, 2026, First Foundation has assets of over $6 million. This is possible because members and friends of First Church have provided $4,674,872 in donations, spread across 24 different funds, since the Foundation was formed over 40 years ago. These funds have generated $3,579,834 of earnings distributed to First Church in support of church ministries!
For the past few years, First Foundation has been able to distribute more than $250,000 to support First Church ministries annually. In 2026, the Foundation’s annual distributions to First Church are projected to top $307,000.
Disbursements from First Foundation funds support such ministries as:
- Provisioning the everyday operations of the church
- Enhancing worship, music, and arts experiences
- Providing scholarships to First Church graduating high school seniors
- Supporting the food pantry
- Purchasing books and equipment for the church’s library
- Caring for church grounds and gardens
- Providing and enhancing educational opportunities for the congregation, including youth and children
For more information on how to make a financial contribution to the First
Foundation, please see Giving.
If you would like more information about the First Foundation, or have questions about making a current or estate gift, please contact us.