FUMC Foundation
The Foundation is a not-for-profit Missouri corporation which was formed for charitable and educational purposes under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is a supporting organization of the First United Methodist Church, Jefferson City, Missouri and, as such, is considered a public charity. The Foundation, however, stands apart from the First United Methodist Church and is governed by its own volunteer board of directors. The Foundation enjoys charitable tax exempt status from the IRS and gifts to the Foundation are tax deductible for income tax reporting purposes.
The FUMC Foundation allows you to direct donations to projects that mean the most to you and your family. Whether you wish to support children or adult ministries, mission projects, music or scholarships, a donation of any amount is meaningful and appreciated. All (100%) of your donation will be used for the purpose you indicate. Donations are accepted at any time. Please make checks payable to First United Methodist Church Foundation and mail to: 201 Monroe St., Jefferson City, MO 65101 or drop by the Church Office, Mon-Thurs, 9:30am - 4pm. Contact Brett McGowan with any questions regarding donations.
The Foundation supports the outreach of our Church which is not covered by the Church’s annual operating budget. This mission is accomplished through scholarships and grants.
The Methodist Church at main and monroe
Written by Steve Newman
Pick up your limited first-edition copy of The Methodist Church at Main and Monroe, a comprehensive church history book, written by longtime FUMC member Steve Newman. His history book project reflects many years of careful research, interviews, and hours spent combing through the church archives. We are so grateful for the time and care he poured into preserving this history for our congregation and generations to come.
-On sale during weekend worship beginning Saturday, August 15, 2026. Steve will be in the Lobby for all three worship services, August 15-30, to sign your book and answer any questions.
-All proceeds from book sales will go to benefit the FUMC Foundation General Endowment Fund.
-Books are $40/each to pick up or $45/each to mail.
Where to Purchase
-Order Online Here for In-person Pickup or Mail Order
-Available in the Lobby during August Worship Services (15th - 30th)
-Church Office, Monday - Thursday, 9:30am - 4:00pm
-Print and Mail Order Form with Payment to: First United Methodist Church Foundation
201 Monroe Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
(Make checks payable to First United Methodist Church Foundation)
-Email Liz or call 573-635-6886 for further assistance.
About the Author
Steve Newman
Steve Newman’s family moved to Jefferson City in March of 1965 when Steve was 10 years old. Steve and his father, Charles, began attending the church shortly thereafter at the invitation of then-Pastor D. Russell Lytle. Steve became a member in 1966. He has served in leadership roles on several church committees and boards, taught Sunday School, and helped to establish the First United Methodist Foundation for our church. He has also served as un usher for over fifty years. Prior to retirement, Steve practiced law in Jefferson City for forty years. He and his wife, Tammy, were married in the church. They have three adult daughters who were baptized and raised in the church.
Grants
Coming Fall 2026
Email, mail or hand deliver to:
First United Methodist Church Foundation
201 Monroe Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Attn: FUMC Foundation Board
PURPOSE
The mission of the First United Methodist Church Foundation is to support for generations the First United Methodist Church, Jefferson City, Missouri and its Methodist heritage. Foundation grant monies should apply to projects and initiatives which are consistent with the Foundation’s mission and beyond the reach of the church’s operating budget.
GRANT REQUIREMENTS
Applications should be typed or word processed and limited to the space allotted. Use no smaller than 11 point type and no script font. Handwritten applications will be accepted, but must be printed in black or blue ink and be clear and easy to read.
All sections must be completed and submitted. Use the space provided in the application and only submit.
Previous Grant Recipients
Volunteers in Mission: Annual trip to Cape Girardeau to work on projects for those in need.
MEL Scholarships: Provide financial assistance so underprivileged children can go to school.
Magnolia’s Ministry: Offering a helping hand to victims of human trafficking.
Thorpe Gordon Stem Academy: New shading for playground area
Scholarships
Coming Spring 2027
Email, mail or hand deliver to:
First United Methodist Church Foundation
201 Monroe Street
Jefferson City, MO 65101
Attn: FUMC Foundation Board
All incoming and current college students are invited to apply for a FUMC Foundation Scholarship.
List of Scholarships
General Foundation Senior Scholarship
FUMC Foundation Board Scholarship
Christina Clary Billings Scholarship
Donald Lee Harris Scholarship
Cornelia Kibbey Roberts Scholarship
M. LeRoy Heman Family Scholarship
Jerry Kelly Scholarship
Rev. Gene and Jane Rooney Scholarship
Sue Alberti Memorial Scholarship Dr. E. Gene Rooney Memorial Scholarship
Board of Directors
A volunteer board of directors governs the Foundation. The directors each serve a five year term. All directors are members of the First United Methodist Church, Jefferson City, Missouri.
Debra Walker, President
Bruce Bates, Vice President
Joe Jaegers, Treasurer
Dan Lenger, Assistant Treasurer
Jane Rackers, Secretary
Don Alberti, Director Ginger Meyer, Director
Debra Mathes, Financial Advisor
Brett McGowan, Church Liaison
Donate to FUMC Foundation
For further information about the Foundation, please contact any Foundation Director or Brett McGowan, FUMC’s Director of Operations, at the church office by calling (573) 635-6886.
Donations are accepted at anytime.