Understanding Piedmont Church Finances

Piedmont Community Church was founded in 1918 as an independent, ecumenical, non-denominational Protestant church.  It is totally self-funded and must raise its operating budget in full each year.  Our church seeks to be open and transparent about its finances.  The information that follows provides an overview of how church funds its operations generally and the current budget.

We hope you find it informative.  If you have questions, concerns or comments, please call the church office to be directed towards someone who can help you.

Financial Commitments

Each year, contributions in the form of financial commitments are solicited for the upcoming calendar year.  Members and friends pledge to give a certain amount.  Some make periodic payments weekly or monthly, while some make one payment or pledge a smaller amount and make an additional year-end gift.  Of course, all donations are very welcome, but the receipt of financial commitments to give a certain amount in the coming year is essential for budget planning.  And of course receipt of the amounts pledged enables our church to pay its bills.

Other Revenue Sources

A small amount is raised each year by facility rentals.  A grant funds the salaries paid to our youth interns.  Gifts designated for certain programs, repairs, or capital improvements are carefully allocated and spent as required.  In addition, the Endowment Fund can be used in a limited way (up to 5% of the principal) to offset some expenses if needed due to budgetary shortfalls.   The vast majority of our church’s operating expenses, however, are paid each year by annual contributions from members and friends in the form of pledges.

Expenses & Trends

Staff salaries and benefits constitute the majority of annual expenses.  Next are the costs of maintaining our buildings and facilities, followed by programs administered by our Boards of Christian Education and Deacons and the music program.  These costs rise each year.  In addition, new programs and services instituted to serve the congregation and community cause expenses to grow.

Investing in our Future

The Board of Trustees engages in strategic planning to build on our many strengths, and to ensure a vibrant and sustainable congregation in the years to come.  Goals include effective communication within the church family and dynamic outreach efforts to the wider community.  Achieving the goals associated with these plans often comes with a financial cost.  The Board of Trustees sets aside funds from its reserves to invest in our future.

Reporting

Members receive quarterly statements showing the amount of their pledge (and progress towards completion), as well as other gifts and payments made for pay-as-you-go events such as dinners, camps and programs such as Mexico mission trips.  Pledges are made on a calendar year basis, whereas Piedmont Church’s budget is based on the July 1 to June 30 fiscal year.  Each year at the Annual Meeting in June, members vote on a budget for the upcoming year.

Gratitude

Piedmont Community Church would not exist without the generous support of its members and friends.  Thank you.