First UU Stewardship
The 2024 Pledge Drive is Coming Up!
Commitment Sunday is October 1
Pledge Drive Kick Off
Celebration Sunday Party is October 15
Together, we nourish souls, transform lives, and do justice to build the Beloved Community.
With hearts full of hope and a spirit of unity, we begin the 2024 First UU Stewardship Campaign. Our theme, “Rebuild, Renew, Rise Up,” is an affirmation of our commitment to creating a world of justice, compassion, and boundless possibility. As we begin this year’s campaign, we invite you to reflect on the profound impact we can make when we come together as a community united by shared values.
Rebuilding our Home, Building a Better World
In the face of challenges and adversity, our church community remains resilient. We have weathered storms and stood strong. We have already done so much to rebuild after the challenges. Now, we continue to reimagine what is possible and ensure our spiritual home remains a sanctuary of growth, understanding, and connection.
**You can help REBUILD and reimagine by
- Pledging your financial support by clicking here.
- Participating in a workday with our Earthkeepers group to help maintain and enhance our physical space and learn about native plants!
- Joining the welcoming and inclusion team to make people feel safe and at home in our congregation.
- Joining the Stewardship Council and help create a culture of generosity within First UU
- Joining the Transformation Connection Service Ministry which helps individuals find meaningful connections within First UU ministries.
Renewing Hearts, Minds, and Spirits
Just as the sun rises anew each day, so too can we find renewal within ourselves and our community. As part of the First UU mission, we “nourish souls,” including our own as well as those of others. Our commitment to caring, lifelong learning, personal growth, and spiritual exploration helps us become more compassionate, empathetic, and engaged individuals.
**You can help RENEW by
- Pledging your financial support by clicking here.
- Joining our vibrant religious education programs for all ages.
- Sharing your joys and concerns with First UU Cares or help nourish others.
- Participating in spirituality and mindfulness programs to nourish your spirit.
- Joining the First UU Choir to bring music and joy to yourself and the congregation
- Joining the Thank You Card Writing Group to appreciate those who support First UU with their pledge.
Rising Up for Justice and Equity
In a world filled with injustice, we are called to rise up and be the change we wish to see. First UU is dedicated to social action at the local, state, national, and global levels. Through service and outreach, we live First UU’s mission. We address social justice issues through education, service, witnessing, community organizing, and advocacy. By standing up for marginalized voices, advocating for equality, and working toward a more just society, we honor the principles that guide us.
**You can help RISE UP by
- Pledging your financial support by clicking here.
- Participating in social justice initiatives at First UU in the areas of hunger, homelessness, affordable housing, public health, eldercare, immigration reform, reproductive rights, economic justice, LGBTQ rights, and environmental stewardship.
- Attending rallies, marches, and community events to stand in solidarity with those seeking justice.
- Engaging in open dialogue and education around systemic issues, fostering understanding and change
- Joining the Anti-Racism Discussion Group discussion group.
Your Contribution Matters
Every contribution plays a vital role in sustaining and strengthening our First UU community. Your dedication ensures that our congregation continues to be a beacon of hope, love, and transformation in an ever-changing world.
**How to Participate:**
- Complete the pledge form and indicate your commitment.
- Attend Commitment Sunday on October 1 at 11 am to be inspired to make a commitment to First UU
- Attend Celebration Sunday on October 15 from 12 – 2 to celebrate our commitments and to connect with fellow congregants. RSVP here.
Thank you for being a part of our Unitarian Universalist community. Together, we rebuild, renew, and rise up, creating a better future for all.
“The future depends on what you do today.”
Mahatma Gandhi
Together, we can Rebuild, Renew, and Rise up.
- Pledge Online for 2024 Here
- Contact our Congregational Administrator, Shannon Posern:
(512) 452-6168 extension 1308 to pledge by phone. - Reach out to stewardship@austinuu.org if you’d like to meet with a Stewardship Visitor.
- If you are at least 70 1/2 years old, consider a required minimum distribution from your traditional, SEP, or SIMPLE IRA account.
- Are you curious about how UU churches work or would you like an overview of First UU’s recent finances? Then you should read this article entitled “Money Matters: How to UU churches work?”
The dream of a stronger presence for Unitarian Universalism in Central Texas and liberal religion, in general, is becoming a reality, thanks to you!
Your support is vital to allow our church to fulfill its mission to nourish souls, transform lives and do justice to build the Beloved community. Support comes in many forms, including time, talent, and treasure.
Treasure can be shared in many ways.
- Our spring auction is an opportunity to support our church while getting to know other members and friends: Many of the items in the auction are experiences rather than items.
- Annual pledging gives us the chance each year to renew our commitment to our spiritual community as well as support the day-to-day operations of the church.
- Capital Campaign contributions ensure the welcoming table at First UU Austin will be available to more and more people searching for a spiritual home as we make major improvements.
- Planned giving includes a wide range of gifts, including charitable bequests, gifts of real estate, and gifts that use retirement and insurance plan benefits. You can visit our Legacy Giving page here.
- Our Sunday offering is a ritual that celebrates the fact our congregation is supported and governed by its people. Once a month, an extra offering is taken to be given to a community organization chose by our congregation.
- Fund a special project! Our church has a list of things we’d love to do/have.
Time and talent are the backbone of how our church lives its mission.
- There are many ways for people to become involved in the life of this church and the greater community here at First UU. You can find a complete list Here.
- There are many service opportunities both at our church and in the larger community. You can find a complete list Here.
- If you have specific talents to share or would like to learn more about opportunities available, please reach out to the Transformation Team.
