Frequently Asked Questions
CAMPAIGN BASICS
What is the 1796 Campaign?
The 1796 Campaign is a denomination-wide initiative titled "Securing Our Future" that strengthens the A.M.E. Zion Church through three core priorities: Ensuring Legacy (preserving historic church buildings), Empowering Ministry (training preachers and lay leaders), and Expanding Reach (planting churches and extending missions domestically and internationally). Rooted in our founding year of 1796, this campaign honors our ancestors while preparing the Church for generations to come.
Why is it called the 1796 Campaign?
The campaign is named after 1796, the year the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church was founded. This name honors our rich heritage and reminds us that we are building on the faithful foundation laid by our ancestors who established this denomination in response to injustice and exclusion.
How long will the campaign run?
The 1796 Campaign will run through the General Conference in July 2028.
What are the giving levels?
We invite participation at the following symbolic giving levels that reflect our founding year:
- $17.96
- $179.60
- $1,796.00
These are suggested amounts to encourage broad participation. You may give at any level that reflects your heart and capacity.
Can I give more or less than the suggested levels?
Yes! The suggested levels ($17.96, $179.60, $1,796.00) are symbolic amounts to encourage participation. You may give any amount that reflects your heart and capacity. Every gift, regardless of size, contributes to securing our future.
HOW TO GIVE
Are online donations accepted?
Yes! Visit amezion.org/1796 to make a secure online donation.
To whom should the check be made payable?
Checks should be made payable to: A.M.E. Zion Church, Inc.
Please write "1796 Campaign" in the memo line to ensure your gift is properly designated.
To what address should checks be mailed?
Mail checks to:
A.M.E. Zion Church, Inc.
3225 West Sugar Creek Road
Charlotte, NC 28269
Please write "1796 Campaign" in the memo line.
Can I make recurring/monthly donations?
Yes. That option is available at amezion.org/1796
Are gifts required?
No. Giving is completely voluntary and based on your heart for honoring the work of our ancestors, supporting ministry today, and securing the future of the A.M.E. Zion Church for generations to come.
TAX & FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Are donations tax-deductible?
Yes. The A.M.E. Zion Church is a recognized tax-exempt religious organization. Donations to the 1796 Campaign are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Please consult your tax advisor for specific guidance regarding your situation.
Can I designate my gift to a specific priority?
The first $1 million raised will automatically be designated to establish the church building's endowment. After this milestone is reached, the 1796 Campaign leadership will direct funds to the three priorities (Ensuring Legacy, Empowering Ministry, and Expanding Reach) based on the greatest needs and opportunities. We ask that you trust the campaign leadership to determine how funds can make the greatest impact.
How will donors know their money is being used effectively?
All funds are governed by A.M.E. Zion Church law and overseen by the Board of Bishops, General Conference, and Connectional Council. Financial records are audited annually by certified public accountants to ensure accountability and transparency. Campaign updates will be provided regularly to keep donors informed of progress and impact.
HOW FUNDS ARE USED
How will funds be used?
Funds will support three priorities:
- Ensuring Legacy - The first $1 million will establish an endowment for the ongoing care, preservation, and restoration of A.M.E. Zion church buildings. Additional funds will support roof repairs, structural reinforcement, accessibility upgrades, and historic preservation projects.
- Empowering Ministry - Funds will provide scholarships, workshops, seminars, and online courses to train preachers and lay leaders to address modern challenges including social injustice, mental health crises, cultural change, and community needs.
- Expanding Reach - Funds will support church planting, mission programs, outreach initiatives, and global ministry partnerships to extend the Gospel and A.M.E. Zion presence into new communities across the United States and internationally.
What is an endowment?
An endowment is a pool of assets, such as cash or investments, that an organization sets aside to support its mission over the long term. This financial structure is intended to provide a stable source of funding that does not depend on annual fundraising.
What is the 1796 Campaign Endowment?
As a foundational commitment of the 1796 Campaign, the first one million dollars raised will be designated to establish an endowment dedicated to the ongoing care, preservation, and restoration of our church buildings.
How can a local church access funds for building care and preservation?
Funds designated for building care will be placed in an endowment established through the 1796 Campaign.
Endowment funds will not be available for distribution until at least 2030, allowing time for the endowment to grow and generate sustainable support.
The application process and eligibility requirements will be formally announced at the 2028 General Conference.
GETTING INVOLVED
How can I get involved beyond giving financially?
Beyond financial giving, you can:
- Serve on local church preservation teams
- Volunteer as a mentor for ministry training programs
- Participate in evangelism and outreach initiatives
- Support grant writing efforts for historic preservation
- Engage in your local church ministries
- Explore service opportunities through A.M.E. Zion departments at org/departments
Can non-members of the A.M.E. Zion Church donate?
Yes! We welcome and appreciate support from anyone who recognizes the value of the community work, historic preservation, and Gospel witness carried out through A.M.E. Zion churches. Your partnership helps us continue this vital ministry.
CONTACT & SUPPORT
Who can I call with questions?
Contact the Office of the Chief Operating Officer at 704-688-2568 with any questions about the 1796 Campaign.
