Native American Children’s Fund - NACF

Just what is Native American Childrens’ Fund and how did it get started? This could be a question that gets asked in different sittings.

NACF was initiated in the 1977-80 quadrennium. Its original purpose was to assist Indian children in the OIMC with their school needs. During the 1989-1992 quadrennium it was decided that the funds received would also be used for other needs related to the children and youth of the conference. The current goal and budget for this Advance Special is $35,000. It has been and continues to be well supported by individuals, local churches and conferences of the greater United Methodist Church.

At the end of 1996 the NACF had the highest account balance of OIMC Net Assets. Therefore it was advised to use it for our children and that we did. 1997 was the year that the $100 for VBS supplies for each church having a VBS was initiated. Also three of our then four districts received $5,000 for playground equipment and, at NACF that time, North District received $2500. Also 25 youth and 25 children were given scholarships to attend the UMW Mission Education Event. 250 school aid scholarships were presented as well as 25 Seniors.

Within these ten years, time has changed due to inflation, natural disasters, etc. In 2007 the Local Church Ministries Council awarded 5 Senior awards, 158 school aid awards and assisted with 46 VBS’s (some churches are still having VBS).