For 55 years, UMCE has been a place of steady faith, deep roots, and generous love. Through every season, this church has been a place where people have found belonging, discovered hope, and been reminded that they do not walk through life alone.
Since 1971, our church has been woven into the story of Evergreen - a place where children have been blessed, families have been supported, friendships have been formed, and people have gathered in times of joy and grief. Through the ups and downs of life together, we have continued to grow, adapt, and respond to the needs of the moment with courage and deep faith in God's hopes for our church and our community.
Now, as we celebrate our 55th anniversary as a church, we have an opportunity to carry that legacy forward by investing in spaces for the next generation to learn, grow, and experience the love of Christ.
Congregational Campaign Goal: $475,000
Congregational Campaign Progress: $204,000 pledged by 11 families and individuals
Total Project Goal: $900,000 (in addition to the Investment Campaign, the project will be partially funded by existing church resources and a loan through the Methodists Helping Methodists Foundation).
For decades, The Great Escape has been one of the most important ways that United Methodist Church of Evergreen has cared for children and families in our community. Generations of children have learned, played, grown, and been deeply loved here. Today, that ministry continues to grow through new teachers, expanded programs, and the reopening of our Infant Room. These renovations will allow The Great Escape to serve even more families in the years ahead while also helping create a stronger future for both The Great Escape and UMCE.
These projects are about more than maintenance. They are about creating spaces that reflect the warmth, hospitality, and vitality of the ministries happening here every day. Whether someone comes through our doors for worship, childcare, recovery meetings, Bible study, concerts, or community gatherings, we want them to experience a place that feels welcoming, cared for, and filled with the love of Christ.
Our building is nearly 50 years old, and several important needs can no longer wait. We have an opportunity to address deferred maintenance, improve accessibility, expand The Great Escape, and create spaces that better reflect the warmth and vitality of our ministries.
The total project cost is approximately $900,000. This will be funded through a combination of existing church resources, a loan through the Methodists Helping Methodists Foundation, and our congregational campaign goal of $475,000.
Pledges may be fulfilled over a period of up to three years. Some people may choose to give immediately, while others may spread their commitment out over time.
Yes. You can make a one-time gift or set up recurring giving through the church website. You can also complete your pledge commitment online.
Yes. We welcome gifts through stock transfers, IRA distributions, donor-advised funds, and other non-cash assets. These types of gifts can provide meaningful tax advantages while also making a significant impact on the future of UMCE. Please contact Dean Penrod or the church office for more information.
These renovations will allow The Great Escape to double infant capacity, expand care for young toddlers, and increase overall enrollment by 40 percent. They will help more children and families access the care, support, and sense of belonging that make The Great Escape so special.
These improvements will make our building more welcoming, accessible, and functional for worship, Sunday School, meetings, community groups, and other ministries. Increased capacity at The Great Escape will also help place both ministries on firmer financial footing for the future.
If you have questions about the renovations scope and projects, you can contact Paul Roamer, who is serving as the Project Manager for the renovation.
If you have questions about the Investment Campaign or your pledge, you can contact Dean Penrod, who is serving as the Chair of our Investment Campaign Team.
You can also always contact Pastor Sarah or the church office with your questions.