Transforming Business for Good: Leading Change Through Faith-Driven Corporate Engagement
Rev. Dr. David S. Bell
At the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan, we believe that our investment choices should reflect our faith and values. As responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us, we work diligently to influence the governance and business practices of the companies in which we invest. Our commitment to faith-driven investing goes beyond simply choosing companies that are financially sound. We strive to ensure that the companies we support also operate in a manner that aligns with our ethical principles and promotes positive social and environmental outcomes.
This approach is deeply rooted in the United Methodist Church’s Social Principles, which provide a framework for how we engage with the world in a way that reflects our faith. The United Methodist Church encourages us to engage in economic practices that promote justice, fairness, and the dignity of all people. Our investments and corporate engagement strategies follow these principles and ensure that our financial decisions are aligned with our commitment to social justice, the protection of human rights, and environmental stewardship. By integrating the teachings of the Social Principles into our investment strategies, we seek to uphold the values of The United Methodist Church in everything we do.
Advancing a Low Carbon Economy: JP Morgan’s Commitment to Carbon Removal Technology
As we continue to invest with purpose, the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan is proud to support companies like JPMorgan which are driving forward vital initiatives in the fight against climate change. Through our shareholder engagement, we focus on supporting companies that take proactive steps to build a more sustainable future and align their business practices with the urgent need for a low-carbon economy.
One of the standout initiatives from JPMorgan is their partnership with Charm Industrial, a leader in carbon removal technology. Charm Industrial has already removed 6,400 tons of carbon from the atmosphere. With JPMorgan’s backing, the company is poised to scale its operations even further. This partnership is part of JPMorgan’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability and advancing technologies that can help mitigate climate change.
Spotlight: Scott Sherrill, Scholarship Recipient Practical Church Leadership (PCL) Dakota Wesleyan University
Scott is a graduate of the Princeton Theology Seminary (M.Div.) and Michigan Technological University (MS Computer Science) and currently serves Ishpeming: Wesley United Methodist Church.
Scott shares: “I’m excited about the Practical Church Leadership (PCL) program because it will provide an opportunity to fill in gaps in my leadership. The curriculum focuses solely on the practical, necessary, and important leadership skills that every pastor needs. I am excited that the program is founded on academic study, but at the same time also offers opportunities for peer connections and individualized coaching”.
These scholarships underscore the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing strong, community-focused leaders who are well-prepared to guide their congregations. We are proud of our history of empowering leaders like Scott in their mission to strengthen our communities.
