Dear Members and Friends,
There is a fundamental truth at the core of our Mission: our Church exists to change lives. Whether it be the nurturing of our spirits, the connections we form, the care we receive from a loving community, or the joy of helping others, the Church connects us, and gives our lives meaning and purpose.
Your financial support of the Church is a spiritual practice, too. It offers you the chance to open your heart to your fellow congregants, fulfilling the covenant to “help one another.” The more generously you give, the more you will feel a deeper connection. Giving generously will feed your soul – you will feel the joy of knowing that you are contributing to building a better world.
What better way to experience the joys of giving than to help fulfill our plan for this year’s pledge drive – to move the Church from a barely adequate funding level to one where we can live life more fully and pursue our mission more effectively – something we can all feel good about. Our goal: a budget of $1 million. Of that, $850,000 must come from pledges, which is about $150,000 more than last year. Here’s how we plan to use that increase in funds:
- $15,000 – give our hard-working staff a well-deserved raise – they haven’t had one in four years.
- $10,000 – pay our full “Fair Share” to the UUA – something we are covenanted to do to support the wider UU movement – it is the right thing to do.
- $25,000 – contribute a responsible yearly amount to our maintenance fund, for the long term upkeep of the building and grounds.
- $85,000 – hire an Assistant Minister to help Frank and the staff – a person our Congregation currently lacks and most of us feel we need – who could also act as membership and stewardship coordinator – a function that is greatly needed.
- $15,000 – if we can raise this last amount, we will replace the worn carpeting with new carpet – our building will feel more welcoming to visitors and to all of us.
To meet these goals, we are issuing an invitation and a challenge. We are asking you to increase your pledge by 20% this year. If you pledged $2,000 last year, please consider pledging $2,400 this year. If you pledged $500 last year, please try to pledge at least $600 this year, or more if you can.
This may seem a daunting request, but together, we can meet these goals, if we set our minds to it. We just have to all pull together. Each and every one of us must participate as generously as we can. We understand some of you are financially challenged for a variety of reasons. Please know that when you step up and participate as generously as you can, this community will value, honor, and appreciate your contribution.
We invite you to think deeply about your pledge to the Church. Your pledge should have deep meaning for you. Giving generously can transform your life. And in the process, we will build and grow our beloved community, and sustain it into the future.
Please make your 2011-2012 pledge as soon as you can.
With care for our community and with thanks for your generosity,
~ Your Board of Trustees and Stewardship Volunteers |
