Giving Campaign 2024

Building a Solid Bridge to the Future

This year of transition at CUUC has given us an important opportunity to consider what this community means to us, and how we want to shape our congregational life in the years to come. What will we keep and what will we let go? How will we remain true to our mission while opening our hearts and minds to new possibilities? With the support of our wonderful interim ministry team and the tireless efforts of so many members and friends, we have been working together to envision a future that will honor our rich past while embracing fresh perspectives.

In order to transform our visions into reality, we must ensure that we are on a solid financial footing. We will soon begin planning for CUUC’s next fiscal year, which begins July 1st. This year’s Annual Giving Campaign will focus on our collective efforts to maintain and expand our robust range of programming while preparing to welcome our new settled minister next fall. With that in mind, our theme is

Building a Solid Bridge to the Future

Last spring, we began laying the groundwork for our ministerial search, which has now advanced to the final stages. Numerous individuals have played a role in bringing us to this pivotal moment. Now, we need everyone’s help to complete this process and demonstrate our commitment and stability to our ministerial candidates. By shoring up our financial reserves, offering competitive wages, and planning wisely for the future we can ensure that we will attract a quality minister.

To meet our financial obligations, we have set the pledge goal at $465,000, a 5% increase from last year. To meet this goal, we need 100% participation, receiving a pledge from every member and friend. Enclosed are a pledge form, information flyer and a self-addressed envelope. You may also pledge online at cuucwp.org/pledge.

While inflation has dropped somewhat, it is still high. Therefore, please consider increasing your pledge by at least 5%. If you are able, we welcome you to do more.

With everyone’s participation, we can sustain our most beloved programs while paving the way for new ideas.

• Journey Groups provide meaningful connections and personal growth.

• Social Justice Teams help us transform our vision into action locally, nationally, and globally. From preparing meals for neighbors in need, to standing up for reproductive rights and racial justice, to working to improve voter turnout, to helping support and resettle refugee families, our SJTs offer us concrete ways to make a difference.

• Committees help our congregation run and provide valuable leadership and community-building opportunities. From music and worship, to finance and buildings and grounds, these essential groups keep CUUC going.

• Our vibrant Religious Exploration program provides age-specific spiritual teaching and moral grounding for children, youth, and adults, led by our dedicated Director of Lifespan Religious Education and team of volunteer teachers and leaders.

• Our music ministry enriches worship with sublime piano performances, heartfelt choral works, and guest musicians from a variety of world cultures. In addition to supporting our beloved part-time musical staff, your increased contributions this year will help fund more offerings from a diverse range of outside musicians.

• Our worship services are offered year-round, with summer services led by guest ministers and speakers, including members and friends of CUUC.

• Last but not least, your support can help bring new ideas and perspectives to the congregation. What would you like to see at CUUC? Are there voices you want to hear? Increased funding can help us improve our communications and outreach to keep our congregation vibrant and growing.

Join us in building a solid bridge to our shared future by pledging your support today. In the coming year, each of us will have an important role to play in shaping our congregation’s vital work, both inside and outside our walls. Help us make our vision a reality as we enter the next phase of our journey together.

With gratitude,

Your Canvass Team
Drew Swiss, Carolyn Hanson, and Chris Kortlandt