Which of the following is a primary objective of endowment accounting and investment management for nonprofit organizations?

a$)$ Maximizing short$-$term gains through aggressive trading strategies.

b$)$ Providing immediate financial support for operational expenses.

c$)$ Preserving the principal amount while generating income to support the organization's mission.

d$)$ Speculating on high$-$risk investments to increase the endowment's value quickly.