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Renovation & Expansion Campaign
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“Write down the revelation and make it plain…though it linger, wait for it; it will surely come and will not delay.”
Habbakuk 2:2-3

Thank you for visiting the online giving page for Freedom Forward!

I am excited today about what I see tomorrow.

We believe God continues to position Freedom Hillside to serve people, to glorify God and edify the greater Chicago area. This renovation and expansion journey is our investment in future generations, the community and the fulfillment of God’s mandate for us to do the work of the Kingdom until the Lord comes.

I invite you to join us on this phase of the journey for we have our eyes set on doing something greater for God and people.

Amazed by His Grace,
Rev. Dr. Craig Melvin Smith
Senior Pastor

FAQ

WHAT IS FREEDOM FORWARD?

It is the name of the building and enlargement campaign. It started in 2019 as a multi-year project to renovate the current sanctuary facility, activity room, lobby, offices and restrooms as Phase 1; and to construct a new addition, extend ‘forward’ (toward Harrison) as Phase 2. This addition will provide space for conferences, dining functions, offices, classroom and community gatherings. Freedom Forward was envisioned by the Pastor to be a three-year project.

IS THE PLEDGE OR FREEDOM FORWARD GIVING BEYOND MY TITHES AND OFFERINGS?

Yes, it is. The Bible clearly teaches that tithes and offerings are for the maintenance of ministries, administration and operations of the Lord’s house. Whenever there was a building or restoration effort of the Lord’s house, there was the call for giving above and beyond the tithes and offerings. This is what we do. It’s additional. It’s according to one’s ability and willingness. We cannot all give the same amount, but we can all give something.

WHAT IS A PLEDGE?
It’s a promise to do or to give something to the Lord in the future. Usually when one makes a pledge it is performed over the course of a specific time (annual, quarterly, multi-years, etc. It is based upon my promise to do this as resources allow. Read 2 Cor. 8:10 and Eccl. 5:4-6
WHAT IS THE RELATIONSHIP OF OTHER PROJECTS TO FREEDOM FORWARD?
Money given under the caption of Freedom Forward is entirely directed toward the goal of Phase 1 and Phase 2. There have been no other projects. It’s all Freedom Forward.
WHY SPECIAL NAMES FOR FUNDRAISERS?
In the spirit of keeping with our grounding on Scripture, over the years there have been several fundraising campaigns — all aimed at supporting Phase 1. The names of these fundraisers vary depending on the inspiration of the Pastor. For example, Mission 316. When the goals or timetable of these projects have ended, we move on to the next one. Mission 316 was a 2025 fundraiser. It’s complete.
WHAT IS PROJECT NEHEMIAH?
PROJECT NEHEMIAH Is the current campaign. It’s a 12-month effort to give $200,000 for the stewardship of our physical church home, proactive maintenance and ministry readiness and to reduce the financial strain from unexpected repairs.
I HAVE GIVEN TOWARDS FREEDOM FORWARD THIS YEAR, WILL THIS COUNT TOWARDS THE CURRENT PLEDGE CAMPAIGN?
Yes, Freedom Forward giving in 2026 will be counted towards Project Nehemiah.
ARE THE OTHER MONTHLY AND QUARTERLY EVENTS IN ADDITION TO MY PROJECT NEHEMIAH PLEDGE?
No. When you give toward the monthly motivations (February Favor, March Gladness, April Abundance, etc.), Church Anniversary, Women’s Day, Men’s Day, Homecoming Sunday and First Fruit Offering, they are counted and included as payments toward on your pledge.
WILL PROJECT NEHEMIAH END ON DECEMBER 31, 2026?
It is specific the $200,000 fundraiser for this year. If we dare to enlarge Freedom’s presence in the community, there will always be a need to continue to evaluate what’s next. During the last quarter of each year, the Budget and Finance team will evaluate the need for continuing a campaign and the amount of that.
WILL WE EVER GET TO PHASE 2 OF FREEDOM FORWARD?
Yes indeed. As soon as we have the current Phase 1, we will commit to the planning and early stages of going forward.
ARE NON-MEMBERS ABLE TO MAKE A PROJECT NEHEMIAH PLEDGE?
Absolutely. We encourage you to take a pledge care to your family members and friends and even businesses who you feel will be benefited by and have a desire for Freedom to provide this facility for the community.
CAN I MAKE A MEMORIAL GIFT IN THE NAME OF MY DECEASED FAMILY MEMBER?
Yes. This is a meaningful and lasting way to remember the life and contribution of a family member or former member who loved this church.
HOW DO I PLEDGE AND HOW DO I MAKE PAYMENTS TOWARDS MY PLEDGE?
You can complete a physical pledge card that is available every Sunday during and after service. Online go to enjoyfreedom.org click on Freedom Forward to complete your pledge. You may continue to give as you always have i.e. envelope or online indicating how your giving is to be applied.