Growing in Faith, In Hope, and In Love

1. What is Annual Fund Drive (AFD) 2012?
The Annual Fund Drive raises the financial resources to sustain the mission and the ministry of First Unitarian Church. Between Annual Fund Drive "Kick-Off" on Sunday, September 18, and Celebration Sunday, on October 16, members and friends of the church make their pledges of financial support for the coming year.   

2. How are the funds raised during the Annual Fund Drive used?
Worship, music, social justice, education for all ages and spiritual development – all of the wonderful offerings of this church are made possible through the generosity of those who find their spiritual home here.  See the AFD brochurefor more information.  

3. Is there a minimum annual pledge required for membership?
No, you decide the amount of your pledge. We ask only that you “pledge generously within your means.” You are asked to look into your heart and reflect on how your participation in the church calls you to generosity. The role of the church in your life and your own financial situation are the most important considerations in helping you find your answer. Ask yourself whether the amount of your pledge makes a meaningful difference in your life. The goal is for everyone to feel good about their pledge. Those who take part in the life of the church but are not members are also asked to consider a generous pledge.

4.    I put money in the plate during the Offertory on Sundays.  Isn’t that enough to pay for the church’s expenses?
 Oh, how we wish it were so! Sunday offerings represent just 3% of First Church income.  And remember ... as part of our outreach, we're pleased to share half of that to other worthy causes each week.

5.   What about the time I volunteer?
 Volunteering lets us demonstrate our commitment to the church by using “two of the three Ts”— our time and talents for worthwhile actions. Contributing our treasure is the third. Making and fulfilling an annual pledge deepens our faith and sustains First Church for the benefit of us all and the wider community we serve.

6.  How much should I pledge? 
When it comes to actually determining the amount of your annual pledge, the decision is yours. No set amount is required. Instead, you are asked to think deeply about the role of First Church in your life.

We count on the church, unlike most other organizations we support, to be there for us in a very personal way. We bring all of ourselves to this church as we make life’s journey.  At First Church you belong to a community where you are able to both give and receive year after year. Our money often goes to places that we have no choice about. So when we do have a choice, it is gratifying to support this community that reflects our deepest values.

Click on this Suggested Giving Guide to help you think about your pledge.

7.   How do I pay my pledge?
You have many choices when it comes to paying your pledge:
Automatic Deduction
Most congregants contribute once each month or quarter by having their pledge amount automatically deducted from their checking or savings account. You just need to attach a voided check to your annual fund drive pledge form or send one to the church’s Accounting Office.  The same account can be debited year after year as long as the account number does not change.
Secure On-Line Pledge Payments
You may pay your pledge on-line.  Click on the On-line Payment Options button below, and you will be taken to our  secure Vanco Services e-provider for payment processing.


Debit Card and Credit Card
 You may also pay your pledge using your debit card or credit card. Just write the number and the expiration date on the space provided on your pledge form.  The same card can be debited year after year as long as the account number does not change. If the card number or expiration date changes, be sure to notify the church office. Notes:  3% of your pledge will go to the credit card company instead of the church. 
Pledge by Phone
 You can call the Church Office and say “I’d like to make my pledge” and you’ll be connected to Mary or Zaida.   

8. When should I make my pledge?
 We welcome your pledge anytime. We hope that you will attend services on Celebration Sunday, October 16, so that you can put your pledge card in the basket and celebrate your commitment to the church along with your fellow congregants.   You can mail your pledge form to First Church; drop it off at the Church office or at the AFD table in Fuller Hall or the Buchan Reception Room on any Sunday beginning October 2.  You may also place it in the offertory basket during any Sunday service.

9.  I still have questions. Who can answer them?
        Please feel free to call the following people for more information:
For general questions:
Mary McFarland, Development Officer – 503-228-6389 ext. 31 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
For questions related to setting up automatic payments, credit card pledge/gifts, check on the status of your 2010 and/or capital campaign pledges and gifts - Zaida Cooper, Controller, 503-228-6389 ext. 21 - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .