Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake Launches Endowment Fund and Advisory Council to Secure the Future of Creation Care

As Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake (IPC) celebrates 15 years since our founding—officially recognized in our Articles of Incorporation—we are taking bold steps to ensure that our mission continues for generations to come. Caring for the Earth is a sacred calling, and in honor of this milestone, we are thrilled to announce two major initiatives that will secure the future of our work: the Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake Fund, established with the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County (CFAAC), and the creation of an Advisory Council composed of dedicated past board members and allies who have been instrumental in IPC’s journey.

A Permanent Resource for Creation Care

The IPC Endowment Fund is a permanent resource dedicated to strengthening and sustaining our work of equipping people of faith to honor, protect, and restore our shared watershed. By partnering with CFAAC, we are ensuring that our vital programs—tree plantings, native garden installations, watershed advocacy, and more—will continue for generations to come.

Unlike traditional fundraising, which addresses immediate needs, an endowment is invested to generate sustainable income year after year. This ensures that IPC’s work can continue regardless of shifts in grant funding or economic uncertainty. We have already raised $15,000 toward this fund, and now we are challenging our supporters to help us double that amount so we can officially establish the fund with CFAAC. By growing the endowment to $30,000, we will create a lasting financial foundation that provides stable support for our mission—ensuring that faith communities have the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to restore the Chesapeake Bay for years to come.

Anyone can help grow the IPC Endowment Fund and be part of securing the future of faith-based environmental stewardship. Here’s how:

  • Make a Direct Gift – Donations of any amount help build the fund and expand its impact over time.
  • Take Advantage of the Endow Maryland Tax Credit – Contributions of at least $500 to the fund may qualify for the Endow Maryland Tax Credit, which provides a 25% state tax credit on eligible gifts.
  • Planned Giving & Bequests – Consider leaving a legacy by including IPC in your will or estate planning.
  • Honor a Loved One – Tribute gifts in memory or honor of a loved one create a lasting impact in their name.

Learn more: cfaac.org/funds/interfaith-partners-for-the-chesapeake

Guiding the Future: IPC’s Advisory Council

As we look ahead, we are excited to announce the formation of our inaugural Advisory Council, a dynamic group of leaders committed to advancing our mission and expanding our impact. This milestone represents a significant step in our journey toward strategic growth and sustainability. The Advisory Council will provide wisdom, guidance, and support as IPC undertakes the strategic planning process and identifies significant fundraising goals. Comprised of past board members and dedicated allies—Ray Heil, Derrick Weston, Jeanne McCann, and Laurie Anne Sayles—this council brings deep institutional knowledge, passion for faith-based environmental action, and valuable networks to strengthen our work.

As Scheherazade Forman, board liaison of the council, stated: "Each member brings unique expertise, insight, and networks to support our efforts in resource development and community engagement." Their leadership will help steer IPC’s long-term vision, ensuring we continue to equip communities of faith to restore the Chesapeake Bay for generations to come.

With the launch of this endowment and advisory council, IPC is making a bold commitment to securing the future of our work. With your support, we can reach our $30,000 goal and fully establish the IPC Endowment Fund, ensuring that faith communities continue to receive the knowledge, tools, and support they need to be champions for clean water and environmental stewardship—not just today, but for generations to come.

We invite you to join us in this effort—by contributing to the fund, sharing our mission with others, and standing with us as we build a sustainable future for the Chesapeake Bay and beyond. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.