Assessing Our Congregation’s Stewardship Culture

Rank on continuum from 1-3:     1=excellent — 2=pretty good — 3=needs attention

___     Our  mission and acts of generosity are clearly connected to our Unitarian Universalist identity and principles.

___     Our wider community knows what we stand for and what we support because of our visibility. (Examples of community visibility are photos, letters, thank you notes, stories in local or UUA media, posted on website and bulletin boards).

___     Regular opportunities are available for all ages to give during our Sunday services.

___     There is a time during our Sunday services for making an offering to the congregation.

___     Our congregation routinely gives away a portion of its offering to social justice causes and relief funding.

___     We offer a planned giving program with clear options and policies for receiving bequests, restricted gifts, or endowed funds.

___     Acts of generosity by individuals and groups are recognized and honored in the congregation, to a similar degree as volunteer time commitment.

___    Our congregation’s building and facilities include points of entry, sanctuary, classroom spaces, offices, outdoor spaces are carefully tended, well maintained and visually appealing and inviting to visitors.

___     Our congregation is intentional in its hospitality.

___    We welcome people from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds.

___     Our annual budget reflects our congregation’s mission and Unitarian Universalist values.

___     Pledges and congregants’ contributions comprise at least 75% of our budgeted operating income.

___     Our annual budget include full financial support of district and wider Unitarian Universalist Association.

___     Our congregation is committed to fair compensation for our professional staff and employees.

___     Children, Youth and Young Adults are active participants in our congregation’s giving and stewardship activities.

___     Our congregation practices stewardship as a year-round activity.

___     Our annual financial needs and giving expectations clearly conveyed to new members, and stewardship information is conveyed  to prospective members.

Assessment Follow Up:  Prioritize all ranked 2’s and 3’s and determine action steps to improve stewardship in those areas.

~v7, 9/2012, LBA