Budget FAQs

How is the annual operating budget set?

Boards and committees of the church, working closely with staff members, develop their annual budget requests in the spring each year. These requests are submitted to the Board of Administration and Finance, which works closely with the church administrator to bring proposed expenses into balance with anticipated sources of revenues.

A balanced budget proposal is submitted to the Executive Committee for review and approval, usually during the summer, and then to the Board of Deacons for approval in the fall. AHCC's fiscal year begins on January 1.

How is the annual goal for the Every Member Canvass determined?

The goal is derived from an analysis of how much funding will be necessary in the coming year in order to support the plans and priorities identified by AHCC's pastoral and program staff, provide competitive compensation packages for staff, pay expenses associated with operating and maintaining a large and historic building, and assure that AHCC remains a source of significant benevolence giving to organizations in the community.

What percentage of the budget is funded by personal contributions (pledges) from AHCC members?

70%. It is by far the most significant and most critical source of operating income. It funds everything we do at the church. Every dollar counts!

Why do we have to pledge our support rather than just making contributions during the course of the year during the offertory?

Pledges made in the fall before a new fiscal year begins (on January 1 for AHCC) allows the church's leadership to budget with confidence for the coming year. It is essential to know how much income can be expected before one makes commitments regarding expenses.

Do I have options in terms of how I fulfill my pledge to AHCC?
Yes. Pledges may be fulfilled in one of three ways:
- Weekly offering using pledge envelopes
- Lump sum payments
- Stock contributions