Giving of ourselves—and modeling generosity to the next generation—are key spiritual practices, and real ways to be the change that we’d like to see in the world.

Each UU congregation funds itself independently.  The members and friends of this church collaboratively invest about $300,000 each year into the spirit of freedom, gratitude, and generosity that we wish to promote within ourselves,  within our children, and within the larger community.

These gifts support
o    Sunday services that challenge you to think for yourself
o    Music and the arts
o    Liberal religious education for children and adults
o    Pastoral care
o    Community service and social justice activities
o    Rites of passage for birth, death, and significant points in-between
o    Maintenance and care for our buildings and grounds

Our operating cost per year per adult member is approximately $1,200. Each of us gives at a level matching our resources and commitment. Some give in lump sums, others weekly, others by monthly electronic transfer from their bank account. It’s always your decision.

Each fall, we conduct a Stewardship Drive  in which members and friends fill out a pledge card indicating their best estimate of what they will give to the church in the coming calendar year. 

Questions and Answers about Giving

Q. Whoa, there!  I’ve only been attending services for a short time and you are already asking me for money??
A. We invite all those who participate in our programs to support this work financially.  As a newcomer, you may have missed the Stewardship Drive, or not felt ready to pledge at that time.  We gratefully accept pledges and non-pledged donations at any time, and ask that new members pledge when they join.

Q. Do I have to be a member to pledge?
A. No, some pledges come from “friends” of  the congregation who attend Sunday Services and/or adult programs, whose children attend Religious Education programs, and others for whom the presence of a community like ours is a vital concern.

Q. Why should I pledge instead of just contributing at my convenience?
A. You couldn’t plan your family’s budget for next year without knowing what your income will be.  First UU Church counts on pledges to predict our income and then budget for expenses accordingly.  Annual pledges make it possible to plan for the future.

Q. I’ve never pledged to a church before.  I haven’t a clue how much is appropriate.
A. Each person gives according to their ability and commitment.  Many of our members have experienced the joy of stewardship that comes from giving generously from the point of view of a provider and guardian of the church’s future.  In 2009, our pledges included

Our endowment fund provides a financial backbone to the congregation. The goal of the endowment is to make possible those programs and projects which are beyond the scope of the annual operating budget. The Endowment Committee has just established The Red Granite Society in order to encourage people to remember the church in their wills and estate planning and to thank and recognize those who do.  If you’d like more information about gifts to the endowment, or about including First UU Church in your will, please ask our Office Manger to have an Endowment Trustee contact you.

For a pledge card, click HERE