FPC’s Pledge and Non-Pledge combined contributions are the primary source of income for FPC. They were essentially flat in 2019. Overall income grew by about $100,000 primarily because of increases in donations to our Concert Series, Music Programs, and support for our Mexico Mission trip. In addition, our All Abilities Inclusion program received a $20,000 Grant from the Presbytery of Detroit. Finally, Hand-in-Hand Early Learning Center increased its tuition income.
Expenses increased in 2019 by about $150,000. In 2019, we had an Associate Pastor for a full year, rather than half year as in 2018. Program staff received raises and five longevity bonuses were earned in 2019. In addition, wages for Hand-in-Hand teachers were increased. Program expenses in 2019 included the purchase of new choir robes, training of five new Stephens’ Ministers, sponsorship of inter-dependent living training for 10 families of special needs adults, and sending our high school youth to the PCUSA’s Triennium Youth Gathering at Purdue University. On the administrative side, we upgraded our Wi-Fi, and upgraded our phone
system to meet current standards for emergency calls. Property Care expenditures were flat overall as we finished the first floor carpeting and painting, converted the entire building to LED bulbs (generating significant savings on electric costs), installed security cameras, refinished the front door and otherwise maintained the property.
system to meet current standards for emergency calls. Property Care expenditures were flat overall as we finished the first floor carpeting and painting, converted the entire building to LED bulbs (generating significant savings on electric costs), installed security cameras, refinished the front door and otherwise maintained the property.
Most of FPC’s assets consist of investments in Session designated endowment funds. As such, these funds are invested and the earnings from the funds are used to support the General Fund’s operating budget, property and FPC’s benevolences, specifically First Foundation Grants. These funds grew in 2019 from $5.1 to $6.3 million as the market recovered from 2018 year-end losses and because of a significant bequest from the Estate of Barbara Lewis to the Deacons and to the Church. In addition, contributions to the endowment funds totaling $28,000 were made by a number of our current and former members this year.