Feast of Asmá’ (Names)- August 20, 2026
Bahá’í National Fund Update
As of August 16, contributions to the funds rolling up to the National Bahá’í Fund totaled $9.8 million. This represents a decrease of about 0.4% below the contributions to these same funds at this time last year. As we consider the challenge before us, perhaps we can reflect on these powerful words from the Guardian:
"The champion builders of Bahá’u’lláh's rising World Order must scale nobler heights of heroism as humanity plunges into greater depths of despair, degradation, dissension and distress. Let them forge ahead into the future serenely confident that the hour of their mightiest exertions and the supreme opportunity for their greatest exploits must coincide with the apocalyptic upheaval marking the lowest ebb in mankind's fast-declining fortunes."
- Shoghi Effendi, Citadel of Faith, p. 58
As Bahá’ís, we have the privilege of having a direct relationship with each of the senior funds of the Faith, while maintaining a direct focus on continually supporting the National Fund. Unrestricted (not earmarked) contributions towards the National Fund goal allow for flexibility in supporting the many activities of the Faith.
Moments of Reflection
The unity of the believers, rich and poor alike, in their support of the Fund will be a source of spiritual confirmations far beyond our capacity to envisage.
~The Universal House of Justice
Description of the Funds of the Faith
The Bahá'í Funds are essential to the administration and expansion of the Bahá'í Faith. They are categorized into several types, each serving a specific purpose within the community. Below are the descriptions of some of the Bahá'í Funds which roll up to the National Bahá’í Fund:
The National Bahá’í Fund is referred to by Shoghi Effendi as "the bedrock upon which all the activities of the Cause ultimately rest." This fund not only supports all the administrative and operational needs of the Faith, but it also covers shortfalls in any of the other funds/initiatives needed to support the activities and needs of the Bahá’í Community.
The Regional Bahá’í Council Fund directly support each of the thirteen Regional Bahá’í Councils.
Special Funds which roll up to the National Fund include, but are not limited to:
The Persian Bahá’í Media Service Fund supports the production of Persian-language media, other platforms, and educational programs that contribute to the community-building process. For our brothers and sisters in the cradle of the Faith, these media programs have also served as a source of comfort and a haven, providing spiritual nourishment, encouragement, and connection. These resources are designed to deepen understanding of the Bahá’í Faith, support those who wish to share its teachings with their friends and families, and assist Bahá’ís and friends of the Faith who are participating together in efforts to build vibrant, unified communities. The honor of supporting this path of service has been entrusted to the American Bahá’í community by the Universal House of Justice.
The Bahá’í Chair for World Peace supports the program established in 1993 as a post and related educational program at the University of Maryland, addressing societal issues most conducive to the emergence of unity and peace.
The Wilmette Institute Fund supports a center of Bahá’í learning and develops programs aimed to facilitate study and dialogue on the teachings and principles of the Faith.
The House of Worship Campus Reserves Fund (Wilmette, IL) was established to defray the annual costs and upkeep of the Mother Temple of the West and its campus, which currently includes the gardens and the Welcome Center.
To view and download the full descriptions of the Funds of the Faith please visit our website here: https://bahaitreasurer.us/description-of-the-bahai-funds
For Reflection:
Each Fund supports a unique aspect of the work of the Faith, yet together they advance one common purpose. How does understanding the distinct role of each Fund deepen your appreciation of the many ways the Cause is being advanced?
Children’s Resources
We recently received this template for making a fund box for children from one of the friends from California, please check it out and view our other resources here: https://bahaitreasurer.us/childrens-resources
Planned Giving
A Simple Way to Give: Donor-Advised Funds
In the previous bulletin, we explored ways to support the Faith through gifts made today, such as an IRA Charitable Rollover. Another way to contribute is through a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF), which offers a simple and flexible way to give to the Fund.
A DAF is a charitable account that allows you to set aside funds for charitable giving and later recommend a gift to the National Spiritual Assembly to support the Fund.
If this possibility speaks to your heart, the Office of the Treasurer is happy to provide the information needed to make this type of gift.
bahaitreasurer.us/planned-giving
plannedgiving@usbnc.org | 847-733-3569
Share Your Memories of Bosch Bahá’í School
Below is a beautiful story we received from one of the friends:
The first time I came to Bosch, I didn't know a single soul. Like many first-time visitors, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. But from the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with genuine warmth and kindness. Before long, I found myself sharing conversations, meals, laughter, and moments of reflection with people who quickly began to feel like family.
As the days unfolded, we studied together, served together, walked beneath the towering redwoods, and lingered long after meals, talking about life and our hopes for the future. Without realizing it, something extraordinary was happening. The strangers I had met at the beginning of the week became lifelong friends, united by a shared purpose and a deep sense of belonging.
Years have passed, but those friendships continue to enrich my life. We've celebrated life's joys, supported one another through its challenges, and now many of us look forward to returning with our own families so they, too, can experience the spirit of Bosch and create memories that will last a lifetime.
When I think about Bosch, I don't just remember the beautiful campus or the majestic redwoods—I remember the people. I remember the conversations that inspired me, the friendships that shaped me, and the quiet moments that strengthened my faith and renewed my desire to serve. Bosch is more than a place; it is a community where hearts are united, lives are transformed, and lifelong memories are made. My hope is that future generations will have the same opportunity to experience the joy, friendship, and sense of purpose that have made Bosch such a treasured part of my life.
Share your stories and memories of Bosch by submitting them through our website here: https://bahaitreasurer.us/submit or send them via email to bahaitreasurersoffice@usbnc.org.
Youth Corner
"ALL MUST SURGE, BUT THE YOUTH MUST SOAR"
The Universal House of Justice, Ridván 2024
Pictured: Youth participating in the Oceans of Light Bahá’í Summer School
We are looking for more submissions from YOUth! Please send us your reflections and stories about the Institution of the Fund or recent youth activities/events. Stories, pictures, and or videos can be sent to bahaitreasurersoffice@usbnc.org.