MISSION MOMENT
At SouthCol, we are driven to help clients pursue their mission. Here is a client story that inspires us. We hope it inspires you. Meet the GNJ Foundation.
Celebrating 30 Years of Growth and Innovation
Thirty years ago, the United States – and the world – reached new heights of innovation. Sony released its first PlayStation, Microsoft launched the Windows 95 operating system, Michael Jordan returned to the Chicago Bulls after a short-lived retirement, and the New Jersey Devils won their first Stanley Cup.
Amidst this backdrop, a small group of visionary Methodists in New Jersey recognized the need for an organization that could help local churches and ministries invest and grow for the future. The United Methodist Stewardship Foundation of Greater New Jersey (GNJ Foundation) was born and – thirty years later – remains a trusted financial and spiritual partner to congregations and ministries across the Greater New Jersey Annual Conference.
This year, the GNJ Foundation celebrates 30 years of stewardship and innovation. While much has changed, there is one constant. “Our mission remains simple, yet profound—to help churches invest resources faithfully so that ministries can thrive for generations,” states Brian Roberts, GNJ’s Executive Director.
Evolving to Meet the Growing Needs of Greater New Jersey
The GNJ Foundation began in 1995 as a small group of “Methodists helping Methodists,” pooling their investments and investing according to Methodist values.
In the 2000’s, following a merger of the Northern and Southern Annual Conferences, the Foundation began to serve the greater New Jersey area. As the needs of churches and ministries continued to grow and evolve, so did the GNJ Foundation.
Innovation Through Collaboration
In 2024, realizing a need amongst its member churches, the GNJ Foundation launched its first annual Summit for Stewardship & Generosity in collaboration with Horizons Stewardship. The Summit is focused around changing the conversation for how churches approach stewardship. The program, now in its second year, is already bearing fruit.
Two churches who participated in the program – First United Methodist Church of Glassboro and First United Methodist Church of Moorestown – have experienced a noticeable shift in commitment, energy, and participation. The program has been credited with Moorestown increasing congregational giving by 20% and meeting its stewardship campaign.
The Next 30 Years
Looking forward, the GNJ Foundation continues to adapt and respond to the ever-widening needs of Methodist individuals and local churches. Explains Brian Roberts, “We are now collaborating with our congregations on plans to develop alternative income development, with a focus on turning properties, partnerships, and creative ventures into ministry resources.”
Summarized SouthCol’s James Lumberg, “Through our work with GNJ Foundation, I have witnessed firsthand its commitment to mission and sustainable stewardship. They are well-poised to inspire their next generation.”
To learn more about The United Methodist Stewardship Foundation of Greater New Jersey, visit gnjfoundation.org.