CCU Endowment Fund: Your Questions Answered
An endowment is one of the most powerful ways to invest in Colorado Christian University’s future by creating a lasting source of support that strengthens students, faculty, and academic programs for generations to come. The following FAQs explain what an endowment is, why private endowments are essential to CCU’s long-term mission and financial stability, and how endowed gifts are thoughtfully managed and aligned with donor passions. You’ll also learn about CCU’s various giving opportunities, the stewardship behind fundraising priorities, and the simple ways individuals, families, corporations, and foundations can make a meaningful, enduring impact through endowment and planned giving.
How to Give
The minimum gift amount either to establish or contribute to an existing endowment is $25,000, which can be made as a one-time contribution or over a multi-year period. There are several different contribution options to explore when choosing the best possibility for you and your financial situation:
Current Gifts
Make an immediate impact with a direct contribution to an existing endowment or establish a new endowment.
Planned Gifts
Include the university in your estate plans through bequests, charitable remainder trusts, or other planned giving vehicles that provide tax benefits while supporting Christian education.
Memorial and Honorary Gifts
Honor loved ones by establishing endowments in their memory or recognition, creating lasting tributes that continue their legacy of faith and learning.
Corporate and Foundation Partnerships
Partner with us to establish endowments that align with your organization's values and commitment to Christian education and community service.
Connect with one of our gift officers today to find out which options may work best for you and your financial goals!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an endowment?
An endowment is a permanently invested fund that generates income over time to support the university’s long-term financial stability. The principal amount of the donation stays invested in perpetuity, ensuring funds are available year after year to support university programs, scholarships, and operations.
Why does Colorado Christian University need private endowments?
Endowment funds are crucial to Colorado Christian University’s long-term stability and success. Unlike one-time or recurring donations or grants, which are generally provided for immediate use, endowments generate income over time through investments. This ensures your gift continues to give year after year and provides sustainable financial support for the university, even through fluctuations in the greater economic environment. Endowed gifts have empowered CCU to:
- Provide student scholarships, ensuring financial barriers do not hinder access to a Christ-centered education.
- Enhance academic programs, fostering innovation and excellence in teaching and learning.
- Support distinguished faculty, helping CCU attract and retain educators who inspire, mentor, and lead.
- Secure CCU’s long-term mission, safeguarding its commitment to developing Christian leaders who impact culture and society.
Who determines fundraising priorities?
The foundation is managed by a volunteer Board of Directors that includes three members of the university’s Board of Trustees and three directors with significant financial and legal expertise who comprise the Investment Committee. Together, they provide strategic oversight and careful stewardship of the foundation’s assets, meeting regularly and working closely with university leadership, including the CCU president, to identify areas of need and steward the growth of the endowment. The advancement team also works closely with donors to ensure financial gifts are aligned with personal passions or areas of interest. Currently, the CCUEF hosts 86 endowment funds focused on individual donors’ interests but collectively invested for greater impact. Of these funds, 94% are dedicated to student scholarships and 6% are dedicated to academic programs, faculty development, and other strategic needs.
Connect with a gift officer today and let us get to know you and how you’d most like to make an impact! Email us at advancementservices@ccu.edu or call 303-963-3330 to speak with a gift officer.
What is the difference between the university’s fundraising organizations?
There is no difference. Colorado Christian University (CCU) is the primary charitable organization (EIN: 84-0442429), and CCU Endowment Foundation (EIN: 84-1235728) is a supporting organization with the sole purpose of supporting the mission of Colorado Christian University.
The Centennial Institute at Colorado Christian University is a program of CCU established in 2009 to enhance public understanding of and mobilize ideas on the most important issues relating to faith, family, and freedom to strengthen America's future.
Are there any fees and/or tax liabilities associated with my gift?
There are no fees associated with setting up an endowment fund with CCUEF — but there are lots of potential tax benefits! Connect with a Gift Officer to find out more.
Colorado Christian University is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under tax ID number 84-0442429. We recommend consulting a financial advisor or tax professional to discuss any fees or tax liabilities that may be associated with your contribution.