First Church Community Fund (FCCF) Background and Purpose
In 1985, one of our late members, Renni Shuter, established an endowment fund to encourage our congregations’ involvement in social action within and outside the church and leadership in addressing community challenges. Almost forty years later, the Fund’s purpose remains very consistent with First Church’s mission and goals today.
Recipients are selected through an application process from eligible nonprofits beginning in mid-July with First Church Community Fund committee decisions announced to recipients and our church community in October.
Endowment terms prioritize grants to smaller nonprofits with limited sources of funding, serving St. Louis City populations, and where grants have the potential to secure additional funding. Grants are intended for special programs or projects or unique needs rather than supplementing general operating revenues.
The FCCF committee reactivates in early spring to hold its annual Spring Bake Sale and Raffle in support of the Endowment’s continued ability to award grants. Thanks to wise stewardship by church leaders, donations from Members and Friends, and annual committee fundraising the endowment balance continues to grow enabling larger grants each year. For the 2024-25 Church Year, Fund income of $8300 made possible grants of up to $750 to twelve nonprofits.
A Designated Collection in the Fall also supports the endowment; however, donations may be made at any time during the year through the “Text to Give” feature, the church website, or by check to the Church administrator.
The FCCF committee welcomes questions about its work, its reach into the community, and potential membership. All questions may be addressed to: (email hidden; JavaScript is required)
or to the First Church Administrator.
Click on thses links for the FCCF Request for Proposal issued to community nonprofits, and information for those potentially interested in joining the FCCF committee.
Recent Grant Recipients
2022 Recipients of the First Church Community Fund Grants.pdf
2020 FCCF Grant Recipients.pdf
If you would like more information on First Church’s Community Fund e-mail: (email hidden; JavaScript is required)
.