“Foundation” is an interesting name for an organization whose ministry involves investing dollars for a greater return on investment. But that is the chosen name for the Kentucky Baptist Foundation.
The Kentucky Baptist Foundation, or KBF, “exists to guide churches, institutions and individuals, in funding the ‘Great Commission’ through investments, endowments and legacy giving.” It has been in existence since 1945 and distributed millions of dollars to gospel-advancing causes since its beginning.
Kentucky Baptists are blessed to have an organization such as the KBF in our state and, more importantly, as a ministry partner. Here are five reasons why:
1. Because of its leader and staff team: Dr. French Harmon and his team are doing an excellent job connecting with Kentucky Baptist churches and leaders to make them aware of the wide array of services the KBF offers Kentucky Baptists. French hosts a monthly online gathering of pastors and ministry leaders to help them connect with national SBC leaders and to add value to their ministry. Under his leadership, the Foundation has increased the number of services it provides as well as strengthened its relationship with Kentucky Baptists.
2. Because of its trustees: The trustees of the Kentucky Baptist Foundation are some of the most committed Kentucky Baptist lay leaders in the state. There are one or two pastors on the board but, given the nature of its ministry, KBF benefits from the wisdom and leadership expertise of some of our great Kentucky Baptist business leaders. The trustees oversee the work of the Foundation as well as provide guidance on how to best advance its ministry for gospel impact.
3. Because of its investment screening: One thing that separates the Foundation from other investment groups is that its investments are 100 percent socially screened. That means it does not invest your church’s money, or your own hard-earned dollars, in “sin stocks.” It does not invest in anything connected to the gambling industry, pornography, abortion, alcohol or tobacco. Even with these self-imposed restrictions, KBF is experiencing returns that are outpacing investment benchmarks. Donors and churches can invest with the Foundation with confidence that their money will not be going to many of the vices that so plague our nation.
4. Because of its return on investments: Most recently, we saw very strong returns on investments. The Foundation has distributed $225 million to advance Great Commission causes since 1945. In 1964, former KBF President A.M. Vollmer described the work in this way: “The Kentucky Baptist Foundation exists to strengthen the rest.” He was referring to how its work positively impacts other important ministries in Kentucky such as Oneida Baptist Institute, Clear Creek Baptist Bible College, Sunrise Children’s Services, Crossings Camps, KBC Church Planting, Disaster Relief and much more.
5. Because of its gospel impact: When churches or individuals invest through the Kentucky Baptist Foundation, they can be encouraged that their investment is impacting lives for eternity. Its short-term fund investments have yielded $1.5 million to churches to carry on their mission. Last year the Foundation distributed $7.7 million to fund great causes.
Not every state convention has an organization such as the Kentucky Baptist Foundation serving its churches, agencies, institutions and individuals — but I am grateful that Kentucky does. If you would like to know more about the work of the KBF, you can go to www.kybaptistfoundation.org.
Dr. Todd Gray 