From gratitude to generosity: How the Luehmanns put their faith into action through a donor-advised fund

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As Thanksgiving approaches, Joel and Denise Luehmann are reflecting on the many blessings God has given their family. “We are so thankful for our faith, family, church, and the opportunities
God has provided,” Denise shared. “We want to give back in gratitude—to honor God with the gifts he has entrusted to us.”

Now in a new stage of life with their children grown, they wanted to give in a way that is both intentional and impactful. They found a donor-advised fund (DAF) to be the ideal tool. It allows them to “bunch” donations and provide consistent gifts to the ministries they support—a feature they value because it helps ministries better plan for the gifts they receive each year. “Denise and I have also used the DAF for appreciated assets due to the tax and administrative advantages,” Joel added. They appreciated how a WELS Christian giving counselor helped clarify the details and guide them through the process. Working with their giving counselor and WELS Foundation, which manages DAFs and other planned gifts, the Luehmanns found the process straightforward and rewarding. “The WELS Foundation staff was warm and helpful and made it easy to get started,” Joel said. “They explained the options, answered our questions, and helped us implement a giving plan that fit perfectly with our goals.”

The Luehmanns also appreciate that their DAF is invested through WELS Investment Funds, which has generated strong returns. “It’s an underappreciated program,” Joel shared. “Professional management, very low fees, and the ability to pool investments with others—it actually generates better returns than we could on our own. The Lord increases the returns, which gives us even more to give—and more joy in giving.” Through their DAF, Joel and Denise support their home congregation—St. Paul’s in North Mankato, Minn.—as well as their area Lutheran high school, ELS ministries, and several WELS-affiliated ministries.

This Thanksgiving, you too can turn gratitude into lasting impact. To explore these opportunities—or to learn how to establish or donor-advised fund for a ministry close to your heart—contact your local WELS Christian giving counselor at wels.net/giving-counselors or call 800-827-5482.