The Investment Fund is meant to provide reasonable interest income while providing appreciation to help offset the effects of inflation, for investments held by United Methodist churches and related institutions. There are no restrictions as to the size of an organization's investment; however, it is recommended that only longer term reserve or endowments funds should be placed in the Fund.

Investments are handled through an Investment Committee of twelve Foundation Board members so chosen because of their financial and business experience and interest. The Committee recommends to the Foundation Board of Directors the policies and procedures that govern the Fund. In addition, the Committee hires and reviews investment counsel, with a formal evaluation of counsel and all policies every three years. All investments made by the Committee are in harmony with Foundation Board approved investment policies and the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church.

The current market value of all investments is approximately $20 million. The following historical performance is net return to investors:

Past 18 years (1981-1998): 9.22% annual average
Past 10 years' range: High= 16.3% Low= (3.8)%

Three year average: 12.7%
Three year range: High= 24.4% Low= (4.28%)

1. All investments are made in accordance with the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church
2. Good historical performance record
3. Consistent accounting of invested funds, with office staff available to help new church or organization officers understand the investment and the accounting
4. Low cost for complete services
5. Governed by Iowa United Methodists
6. Choice of timing for interest payments and no penalties for timely withdrawals
7. No brokerage costs for depositing stocks or gifts of stocks
8. Support of the United Methodist system through the Foundation's work in investment and fund development

The purpose of the Fund is to provide an avenue for those churches and agencies of the Iowa United Methodist Church who desire to position some of their endowment or reserve funds primarily for growth and secondarily for income. The Fund is also open to individuals establishing charitable endowments for a portion of their gift funds, dependent on the endowment's objectives.