Money Matters 6/1/2024
Dear Second Unitarian Church Members and Friends,
The Finance Committee has been diligently working behind the scenes this year to ensure the financial health and well-being of our beloved 2U. We are pleased to share a summary of our activities and a hopeful vision for the future.
Our Purpose:
Guided by our Unitarian Universalist values of stewardship and responsible resource management, the Finance Committee's mission is to safeguard the financial integrity of our church. We accomplish this by carefully monitoring income and expenses, making recommendations to the Board of Trustees, and engaging in activities that support the sustainability of our shared ministry.
A Year of Challenges and Opportunities:
This past year presented both challenges and opportunities for our church finances. While we faced unexpected increases in expenses such as utilities, health insurance premiums, and custodial services, we also experienced the generosity and resilience of our congregation through increased giving and fundraising efforts.
Highlights of Our Work:
The Finance Committee has been actively engaged in several key areas:
Monthly Reviews: We have diligently monitored the church's financial status through monthly reviews of income, expenses, fundraising activities, service contracts, and other relevant financial matters.
Collaborative Efforts: We have collaborated with various teams and ministries, including the Stewardship Ministry, Canvassing Team, Director of Administration, and Senior Minister, to develop and implement an effective annual giving campaign strategy.
Healthcare Review: We formed a dedicated healthcare team to explore and investigate alternative healthcare options, ensuring the well-being of our staff and community.
Reserve Fund: We are in the process of establishing a dedicated reserve fund to provide financial stability for the future.
Fundraising Partnership: We have explored a fundraising partnership with RaiseRight, a platform that enables members and friends to support 2U through everyday purchases.
Administrative Transition: Lent assistance, to smooth the transition between office administrators.
Reconciliation: Worked with the SCOPE/BIG and the board of trustees to reconcile donations between the operating account and the capital campaign account.
Database: Worked with Rob Muller (Chair of the Board of Trustees), the Dir. of Administration to do database maintenance (Breeze).
A Call to Engagement:
We invite you to attend the 2U Annual Meeting on Sunday, June 9, 2024, where we will present a comprehensive report on the church's finances. And where you will have the chance to VOTE on the 2024-2025 Proposed Budget. Your presence and participation in this important gathering will demonstrate our shared commitment to the well-being of our community.
Gratitude and Hope:
We extend our deepest gratitude to our dedicated committee members, church staff, and volunteers who have generously contributed their time and talents to the financial health of 2U.
We remain hopeful and inspired by the generosity and resilience of our community. Together, we can ensure that 2U continues to be a beacon of hope, love, and justice for generations to come.
Respectfully,
