A Message from the Chief Investment Officer: Advancing in Our Sustainable Journey

It’s no surprise that the sustainable investing landscape continues to evolve amid heightened market volatility and a shifting regulatory environment, which calls for a close examination of sustainability claims.

As stewards of the retirement assets we manage on behalf of our ministry partners, we recognize that our responsibility extends far beyond financial outcomes alone. We are called to prudently manage capital in ways that support resilient economies, build and foster healthy communities, and care for creation. This conviction, as a financial ministry of the United Church of Christ, guides our ongoing sustainable investing journey.

In practice, we work closely with our investment managers and partners to identify strategies that demonstrate measurable impact, sound governance, and which result in care for people and the planet. Our approach emphasizes thoughtful manager selection, careful due diligence, and ongoing engagement to ensure alignment with our fiduciary obligations and broader responsibilities to serve our members well in securing their lifelong retirement security. It’s faith and finance in action.

As highlighted in Because of Ministry…Stewarding Your Assets for a More Just World, a Pension Boards Sustainability Report, we continue to invest innovatively across a range of sustainable themes that address pressing global needs, including climate change mitigation and adaptation; clean and efficient energy systems; green and blue bonds that finance environmental restoration and sustainable infrastructure; as well as investments in workforce development and corporate learning. Each investment is evaluated by how it advances social good, environmental resilience, and responsible corporate behavior.

Our commitment to sustainable investing is an ongoing process of listening and learning, engagement, and accountability. We continue to refine our approach to collaborate with trusted partners, some of which are featured in this report, and remain attentive to evolving best practices in our duty to steward resources wisely and responsibly on behalf of those we serve.