Understanding Named Endowed Funds: Creating a Lasting Legacy at KML
Updated: May 21, 2025
A named endowed fund is one of the most powerful and personal ways to create a lasting legacy at Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School. Unlike one-time donations, endowed funds are designed to provide sustainable, long-term support for KML's mission year after year.
What is a Named Endowed Fund?
A named endowed fund is a permanent investment established in your name, or in honor of someone special to you. The principal amount remains intact, while a portion of the investment earnings is distributed annually to support specific aspects of KML's ministry.
Currently, the KML Foundation manages over 20 named endowed funds, each playing a vital role in our ability to provide student assistance and college scholarships. These funds have helped the Foundation's assets grow to about $3.7 million, enabling us to make increasingly significant distributions each year.
How Do Named Endowed Funds Work?
When you establish a named endowed fund with the KML Foundation, your gift is invested alongside other foundation assets. Each year, the Foundation board calculates distributions based on a formula that ensures both immediate impact and long-term growth.
Typically, the board authorizes an annual distribution of 5% of each fund's 12-quarter average balance. This approach ensures both stability in funding and protection of the principal during market fluctuations. The remaining earnings are reinvested, allowing your fund to grow over time and counter the effects of inflation.
Types of Named Endowed Funds at KML
Named endowed funds can be established to support various aspects of KML's mission:
Student Assistance Funds: Help make KML accessible to more families regardless of financial circumstances
College Scholarship Funds: Support KML graduates as they continue their education
Special Purpose Funds: Target specific programs, such as athletics, music, or academic departments
General Purpose Funds: Provide flexible funding for areas of greatest need
Why Create a Named Endowed Fund?
There are many reasons why establishing a named endowed fund might be right for you:
Create a lasting legacy - Your fund will continue to give for generations to come
Honor a loved one - Memorialize someone special or celebrate a milestone
Support your passion - Direct your giving to the aspect of KML that means the most to you
Provide steady, reliable support - Help KML plan for the future with confidence
Make a significant impact - Even modest endowments can generate substantial support over time
Getting Started
Creating a named endowed fund is simpler than you might think. The KML Foundation can work with you to establish a fund that aligns with your values and goals. Endowed funds can be created with immediate gifts or through your estate plan.
A named endowed fund allows you to extend your stewardship for generations to come, ensuring that KML can continue providing Christ-centered education far into the future.
To learn more about establishing a named endowed fund, contact
Dylan Rusch at dylan.rusch@kmlhs.org or 262-677-4057 x4093.
