To create a vibrant culture of generosity that nourishes a legacy,
A VISION THAT OUTLIVES A LIFETIME
Every congregation eventually asks two important questions:
- How do we serve faithfully today?
- And how will that ministry continue tomorrow?
For Desert Hills Lutheran Church, the answer was the creation of the Desert Hills Lutheran Church (DHLC) Foundation — a permanent endowment ministry designed to sustain and strengthen the church for generations to come.
Born from faith and guided by prudence, the DHLC Foundation exists to ensure that today’s generosity becomes tomorrow’s opportunity.
THREE PILLARS OF GENEROSITY
1. FUND DHLC SEMINARIAN SCHOLARSHIPS
There are currently 3,000 ELCA churches without pastors. Since its founding, the DHLC Foundation has awarded thirty scholarships totaling over $275,000 to support seminarians and fill vacant pulpits.
In 2026, the DHLC Foundation supports four seminarian scholarship recipients.
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2. FUND UNPLANNED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS AT DHLC
Over the years, the DHLC Foundation has helped fund the new organ, the Fellowship Hall folding walls, and other unbudgeted but necessary improvements to maintain the quality of worship.
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3. SUPPORT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION IN THE REGION
Lutheran Campus Ministries UofA, San Juan Bautista Lutheran Church, RISE Scholastic Achievements, and others have had financial needs to support their ministries. The DHLC Foundation has donated more than $140,000 to help these organizations spread the gospel.
Click on the graphic below to view the organization's website.
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WHAT IS YOUR LEGACY? |
Have you thought about what you will leave behind for the next generation and beyond? Most of us have our possessions all figured out, but what about our values and passions? How good are we at passing on what we truly value and what gives our lives meaning? Research shows that those with a sense of purpose live healthier, more fulfilling lives. We are created to have a purpose in life.
Legacy giving, also known as planned giving, is a way to support the ministry of Desert Hills Lutheran Church through gifts made in your will, trust, or estate plan. It allows you to make a lasting impact beyond your lifetime, ensuring that your faith continues to bless others well into the future.
Common types of legacy gifts to the DHLC Foundation include:
- Requests in your will or trust
- Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance, or bank accounts
- Charitable gift annuities or trusts that provide income during your lifetime
- Gifts of appreciated assets, such as stocks or real estate
Legacy giving is an act of faith and gratitude — a way to return to God a portion of the blessings you’ve received. It’s a reflection of your values and a tangible expression of your love for the church family that has nurtured your spiritual life.
It is important to note that a legacy gift is an intent or a plan to give based on current circumstances. It is not a commitment. Over time, circumstances can change, and plans may be adjusted to adapt to those changing circumstances.
By including the DHLC Foundation in your estate plan, you help:
- Provide scholarships to ELCA seminarians
- Maintain our beautiful church campus for future generations
- Support Christian education in the region
Legacy giving doesn't have to be complicated. Even a small percentage of your estate can make a meaningful difference. You can:
- Speak with your financial planner or attorney about how to include the church in your plans.
- Contact the church office to discuss your intentions confidentially.
- Contact Lisa Higginbotham, ELCA Regional Gift Planner, to get additional information. Lisa has a wealth of knowledge of maximizing the tax benefits of this type of planning, and her services are complimentary. She can be reached by phone at 805-910-5048 or email at
The DHLC Foundation Board established a goal last year to have a total of $3 million in Legacy Intention Gifts by 2030. To date, there is $1.4 million, and thanks to your generosity, the DHLC Foundation is well on its way to hitting the goal.
WHO BENEFITS FROM YOUR LEGACY?
Learn More
GET TO KNOW YOUR
DHLC FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
All members of Desert Hills Lutheran Church are members of the DHLC Foundation. The DHLC Foundation is managed by a Board of Directors elected by the congregation at its annual meeting. Board responsibilities include investment oversight, distribution approval, long-range financial planning, and donor communication.
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2026 DHLC Foundation Board of Directors (from left to right): Back Row Jon Fogg – Council Liaison, Steve Sorenson, John Stearman, John Westrich, Dan Carlson, Pastor Mike Sager, Bill Oldread, |