The capital requirements of churches vary greatly depending on their needs. The AWF Development Fund makes loans to churches and agencies in the AWF Conference for new church construction, purchasing property, and major renovation projects. These loans help churches keep their interest rates low and continue ministry.
Jackson First United Methodist Church is currently undergoing major remodeling and renovation projects that will affect four of their buildings and the church grounds. “Our primary need is to bring the heating and air conditioning unit in our sanctuary building up to date. The present water cooled industrial unit was installed when the sanctuary was built in 1929” remarked Rev. Alan Gantzhorn, pastor.
Over time, the need to renovate and maintain property becomes essential due to age and natural wear. While some of these issues can be resolved with a couple of coats of paint or simple maintenance, other instances require additional funding.
The renovation projects at Jackson FUMC will allow for work on the HVAC system, an updated Christian education space with the use of “smart” technologies, re-landscaping of the campus, and refurbishing youth meeting rooms. They used a AWF Development Fund loan to restore and improve their campus, to increase safety, and be more appealing to visitors.
Speaking of his experience with the AWF Development Fund, Rev. Gantzhorn states “From our first conversation through the disbursement of funds, Terri Turner and her staff were helpful, informative and gracious. The application process was straightforward, and whenever we had a question or concern, they addressed that concern immediately. We were under a fairly tight schedule due to our contractor’s availability; but in the end, the Foundation was able to approve our loan and disburse the money we needed even before the contractor arrived. We were very pleased with the services offered to us by the Foundation.”
Loans through the AWF Development Fund require a first mortgage, but the AWF Development Fund does not charge a closing fee. Start a conversation with us today to find out if you qualify!