Northwest United Protestant Church Establishes $100,000 Endowment for Jefferson Elementary Students

As Northwest United Protestant Church prepares to close its doors after decades of service, its final act will leave a lasting legacy for local children. The church has established a permanent endowment fund of $100,000 to support the direct needs of students at Jefferson Elementary School. 

Administered by 3 Rivers Community Foundation (3RCF), the fund will provide annual grants to Jefferson Elementary, ensuring sustained support for students facing barriers to success. From the gift, $4,000 is being distributed immediately to be used for the current school year. The balance will be invested and endowed to provide an annual grant for each school year. The fund is specifically designated to meet essential student needs such as school supplies, hygiene items, clothing, pantry staples, and access to extracurricular activities. It will not be used for salaries, administrative costs, or facility expenses. 

Rev. Dr. Miriam Gentle, representing Northwest United Protestant Church, shared: 
“This is more than a financial gesture. It is a final act of faith — a continuation of our commitment to compassion and community. It is our sincere hope that these funds will support your efforts in addressing some of the social concerns that stirred the hearts of our congregation for decades, and at a level of giving that was never before possible for us.” 

Amy Salinas, Principal of Jefferson Elementary, expressed deep gratitude: 
“On behalf of our staff and families, I want to thank Northwest United Protestant Church for this extraordinary gift. Their ongoing support will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Jefferson students year after year.” 

Dr. Shelley Redinger, Superintendent of Richland School District, added: 
“We are grateful to Northwest United Protestant Church and 3 Rivers Community Foundation for their generous gift to Jefferson Elementary. Establishing this fund reflects a strong commitment to education and our community and will make a lasting difference for our students for years to come.” 

Abbey Cameron, CEO of 3 Rivers Community Foundation, shared: 
“3RCF is uniquely positioned to manage this type of gift. Adding this fund to the permanent community endowment built over the last 25 years allows for a perpetual impact on our community. We are honored to maintain the intent of Northwest United Protestant Church and preserve this support for students at Jefferson Elementary now and for years to come.” 

A formal check presentation is planned at Jefferson Elementary on Monday, September 22nd at 1:30pm to celebrate the launch of the fund and honor the church’s enduring impact on the community. Please confirm your plan to attend at [email protected].