This week, our endowment series highlights four special funds that support senior ministry grants across Oklahoma. These endowments—each rooted in care, compassion, and legacy—continue to enrich the lives of older adults through programs that promote health, dignity, and connection.
Fellowship of John Endowment – Originally created to support seniors at the Oklahoma Christian Home, this fund eventually came to ODF to be managed and overseen by the Foundation’s Board. Today, it continues to honor that mission by funding grants for health-related ministries for seniors across our state.
University Place Christian Church (OKC) Endowment – As part of its closing legacy, University Place Christian Church directed its resources to benefit the Oklahoma Christian Retirement Community—now the Disciples Retirement Community of Oklahoma (DRCO). When the community’s needs changed, ODF and DRCO partnered to redirect proceeds toward senior ministry grants.
Senior Ministries Endowment – Formed in 2021 by combining the original Senior Ministries and Older Adult Sharing & Interfaith Services (OASIS) funds, this endowment supports grants for senior ministries such as healthcare assistance, respite for care providers, as well as health and wellness programs and information. What began as support for a local adult day care ministry that ceased to exist, now touches the lives of older adults across Oklahoma.
South Side Christian Church (Tulsa) for Seniors Endowment – When South Side Christian Church closed, it left a legacy to support Disciples-related senior ministries in Oklahoma—such as adult day care, assisted living, and medical care. ODF continues to honor that vision through its grants program.
Supporting senior ministries isn’t only about healthcare—it’s about community. These programs help older adults stay active, connected, and valued. They address not just physical health, but also emotional and spiritual well-being-reducing isolation and fostering purpose during later years.
The impact of these endowments reminds us that generosity fosters lasting change. You can contribute to this ongoing legacy with your unrestricted gift to ODF’s Grants Program, which enables us to address the greatest needs—including ministries serving seniors across Oklahoma. Every gift, regardless of size, helps ensure vital ministries continue to flourish. We are sincerely grateful to the congregations and individuals whose foresight keeps blessing generations through the ODF Grants Program.