EDF -  The Real Deal

In the next couple of days, the A.M.E. Church will celebrate Founder's Day. It has been our tradition in the Fifth Episcopal District to contribute to the Fifth Episcopal District Economic Development Fund (EDF) in an effort to support economic self help and self determination.

Presently, EDF is undergoing a financial audit because of questions regarding the management of  "The People's Fund." At the 2011 -2012 Fifth Episcopal District Planning meeting held in Los Angeles, California, on November 1, 2011 the following was both discussed and voted upon (taken from the Minutes of the Fifth Episcopal District Planning Meeting):

"There was much discussion about the report from EDF.  A motion from Rev. John Hunter passed that a complete independent audit be conducted.  A motion was passed to fill the vacancies by election on the EDF Board.  The vacancies reported to be filled are Calif. Conference- 1 clergy, 1 lay.   So. Calif. Conference-1 clergy, 1 lay.  Desert Mountain Conf. - 1 clergy, 1 lay.  Midwest - 1 clergy, 1 lay.  Mo. - 1 lay.  Pacific NW-2 lay.  A motion was passed that called for a complete independent audit of EDF.  A motion was passed to suspend all EDF activities, including investments and selling until an audit was completed.  In clarifying questions about collecting money for EDF at Founder's Day.  Bishop Kirkland stated that EDF money could be collected at Founder's Day but would be held and a decision made after the audit and pending its findings, in accordance with the motion that was just passed."

Hopefully, this will help to set the record straight concerning EDF. Anyone who attempts to usurp the actions voted and agreed upon concerning the direction of EDF is in direct violation of the motions passed at the Fifth District Planning Meeting.

So now you know.

SA