In His Steps Foundation

In His Steps Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Independence, Ohio, primarily serving Northeast Ohio. It was formally established in 1998 as a public community foundation.

Mission

The foundation's mission is to encourage and teach Christlike stewardship, serving as a foundation for personal giving and estate planning. It aims to help individuals discover God's plan of stewardship for their wealth and implement it through the use of a low-cost public foundation, facilitating Christian philanthropy. Additionally, it supports churches and ministries in starting and growing endowments for future stability.

Operations

In His Steps Foundation manages a prudently invested capital that is distributed to ministries proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ and other charitable causes. The organization employs a team of professionals and partners with legal, financial, and estate planning professionals to advocate for a biblical model of stewardship. It collaborates with resources like the National Center for Christian Foundations for mutual enrichment.

Impact and Grants

Since its inception, In His Steps Foundation has disbursed over $70 million to various charities, including more than $4.25 million through its General Fund Grant program specifically for Northeast Ohio evangelistic ministries. The foundation offers and administers planned future gifts that provide tax benefits to donors.

Financial Status

In recent years, the foundation's revenue has been substantial, with notable amounts from contributions and investment income. In 2022, the revenue totaled approximately $16.75 million. The organization's financial management includes executive compensation and salaries for staff, totaling around $237,679 in recent filings.

Historical Background

The foundation's name draws inspiration from the novel "In His Steps," published in 1896, which spawned the phrase "What would Jesus do?" This reflects the organization's emphasis on generous giving as an expression of Christian faith. Its establishment followed a significant spiritual renewal in Northeast Ohio, prompted by the 1994 Billy Graham crusade.

Structure and Partnerships

In His Steps Foundation partners with numerous families and nonprofit organizations to establish donor-advised funds, endowments, and planned giving arrangements. By 2020, over 200 families and organizations had set up such funds through the foundation.