In a world often marked by division, First United Methodist Church Richardson stands with an open door, welcoming all as beloved children of God. Here, faith is deepened, friendships are formed, and lives are transformed.
Our capital campaign is not just about buildings or programs. It’s about strengthening our faith community to have a lasting impact.
Children, Youth, and Young Families
We’re dedicated to creating spaces and ministries that support families as they raise the next generation of difference-makers. Whether it's through welcoming children’s areas, dynamic youth programs, or spaces where parents can connect and grow, this campaign is our opportunity to say: we see you, and you belong.
This mission-essential investment will continue shaping a church where faith takes root early and a vibrant community can flourish.
Engagement in All Ages and Stages
Engagement is more than involvement. It's a way to strengthen our spiritual foundation while helping our faith community flourish. Whether through worship, classes, small groups, serving, or giving, connections are deepened in countless ways.
Our facilities already support many of these paths, and with strategic improvements, we can make those paths broader, clearer, and more inviting to enrich people's experience of FUMCR at every age and stage of life.
Strengthening our Financial Position
Throughout our seasons of growth, we have made prudent decisions regarding next steps with fiscal responsibility. We continue that work today. Currently, our debt accounts for 14% of our annual operating budget. Significantly reducing that burden frees us to invest more boldly in ministry, mission, and innovation.
Every dollar lifted from debt is a dollar released into the work God is calling us to do, both inside and outside the walls of our church.
Allocations
Debt Reduction
The first $7.5 million will be directed to debt reduction.
Combined with our ongoing principal and interest payments, this will position us to be debt-free by 2028,
freeing up future resources to fuel ministry and mission.
We are committed to a “pay-as-we-go” approach, avoiding additional debt as we invest in renovations and new spaces.
Refresh and Refurbishment
With many of our facilities nearing 20 years old, now is a pivotal time to invest in meaningful updates that will enhance both the beauty and functionality of our spaces for people of all ages with the next $2.2 million. • Bartula Family Life Center Lobby and Café transformation • Chapel renovation • Accessibility, security, and wayfinding improvements • Technology updates to sanctuary sound system & classroom displays • Revitalization of campus finishes
Reimagining Our Campus
New, welcoming, clearly marked entrances to Children's and Youth Ministry areas will provide clarity for congregation, guests, and community; improve sight-lines, security, and safety; and offer engaging areas to gather and connect.
A community pavilion across Custer will provide a multi-purpose, covered, outdoor recreation area with new restrooms, seating, and concession area.
We dream and believe all this can be accomplished through a successful $20 million campaign — a bold, essential investment in our mission, our community, and our future.
Renderings
Children's Ministry
• Clearly marked entrance facing Custer Road
• Improved security and safety
• Engaging areas for parents and families to gather and connect with each other
• Relocated Children's Ministry offices
$3.4M
Youth Ministry
• Covered outdoor space leading to a new entrance
• Reconfigured interior spaces within Bartula Family Life Center
• Additional classrooms and gathering spaces
• Better segregation of age groups
$3.4M
Community Pavilion
• Multi-purpose, covered, outdoor recreation area available for church and community activities
• Restrooms
• Seating
• Concession area
$3.5M
Timeline
Campaign Launch
September 7, 2025
Commitment Sunday
September 28, 2025
Refurbishment Begins
Spring 2026
New Construction Begins
Fall 2026
Project Complete
Fall 2027
Projected Debt-Free
2028
Ways to Give
Online or Recurring Giving
Set up a one-time or recurring gift online anytime at fumcr.com/givenow. A simple way to stay consistent in your support.
Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)
If you are age 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA, up to $108,000 per year, without paying income tax on the withdrawal. A QCD can also count toward your required minimum distribution if you're over 73.
Gifts of Appreciated Securities
Donate stocks, bonds, or mutual funds held for over a year and receive a charitable deduction for the full value, while avoiding capital gains taxes. Most securities can be transferred electronically, directed to FUMCR.
Donor Advised Funds (DAFs)
Contribute to a Donor Advised Fund and recommend grants to FUMCR over time. DAFs offer flexibility and can maximize the impact of your giving in a way that fits your financial planning.
Cash or Checks
Give by placing cash or check in the offering plate on Sundays or mail your gift to the church. If offering a single gift, please note how much should go towards your annual pledge and how much towards the capital campaign.
What It Will Take
A commitment from every household – above and beyond regular giving – fulfilled over three years.
Whether you're a long-time giver or this is your first campaign, your part matters. This is our moment to come together in faith and generosity.
We believe this dream is possible because we believe in this church and its people.
Questions? Our Finance Office is happy to help!
Stachia Brothers, Contributions Manager, sbrothers@fumcr.com, 972.996.0131
Dianne Weideman, Director of Finance, dweideman@fumcr.com, 972.996.0106
