The Unitarian Universalist Church of Pittsfield is a financially autonomous organization. It is not a charity.

Each year we prepare a budget and raise funds to finance our expenses through annual pledging by our membership. Annual budgets are prepared by the Finance Committee, reviewed by the Executive Committee and discussed/modified and finally approved by the Church membership during the Church’s Annual Meeting. Since we do not receive outside financial support, it is incumbent upon each member to contribute a reasonable level of voluntary giving. While there is no fixed amount of support required, our by-laws stipulate that a financial contribution of record is one of the criteria used to determine active membership in our Church.

Certain expenses of the congregation can be seen as non-discretionary, such as dues paid to the Unitarian Universalist Association and the Clara Barton District.  These fees are based on our annual membership count. Also, the monthly newsletter requires printing and mailing. For these reasons, the first $100 of your pledge escapes from our use as soon as it’s received. Only the remainder directly pays for our day-to-day expenses, which are managed very frugally.

Annual pledging enables the Finance Committee to establish an accurate budget based on a consistent level of support throughout the Church year. During the months of March and April, members of the Canvass Committee contact every member to obtain her/his annual pledge. However, it is not necessary to wait to be contacted. If you have joined the Church outside the time of the annual canvass, you may begin your pledge immediately. Please contact the Church Administrator who can put you in touch with the Chairperson(s) of the Canvass Committee.

A frequently asked question is, “How much should I pledge?” We know you want to be as generous as your budget allows. Based on our small membership, a good rule of thumb is $20 per week, per member, if you are able. The figure averages out to help us meet our annual budget for salaries, operations and programs, as well as outreach — and our Sunday morning coffee! As with every other aspect of Church life the answer begins with another question: “How important is the Unitarian Universalist Church of Pittsfield in my life?” While contemplating this question, you may wish to review the Church’s Annual budget contained in the Church’s Annual Report, have further discussions with the Canvass Committee Chairperson(s) and reach a decision which reflects your personal commitment.

Go back to make your Pledge here.