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Where does the UUCP’s Operating Revenue come from?

The UUCP’s Operating expenses are paid almost exclusively by pledges from our members and friends. We don’t rely on plate collections because we donate our Sunday collection basket offerings to local charities. The stewardship pledges our members and friends make each fall determine our budget for the following year.

What is the UUCP’s Operating Budget?

Our UUCP operating budget for 2025 was $497,394, with 95% of that expected to come from these “Stewardship Pledges.”  This coming year we anticipate higher expenses, primarily due to increases in staff salaries to keep up with inflation. The UUCP 2026 operating budget has not yet been finalized, that will happen in the next several weeks and will depend to some extent on the pledges we receive in November. 

How much did members and friends pledge for 2025?

The average pledge last year was about $3,700, with half of all pledges $2,000 or less. Our members and friends have very different incomes, expenses, and financial responsibilities. What makes sense for one supporter would be impossible for another, even though both are committed to the UUCP. That’s where “Fair Share” giving comes in.

What is Fair Share giving?

“Fair Share” is an approach to giving which was adopted by the UUCP many years ago. It asks members and friends to pledge their fair share, which each supporter determines for themselves. We provide tools to help you determine a “fair share” pledge, including a worksheet for calculating your “pledge-able” income and a table that may help determine an appropriate pledge based on income and level of commitment to UUCP.

Why Should I Give My Fair Share?

Last year dozens of our supporters indicated they made a fair share pledge or committed to “work toward” fair share in the near future. There are good reasons why:

Fair share giving satisfies the covenant that we make to one another to provide financial support for the Church. It honors our promises to provide fair compensation for our wonderful minister and staff, as well as strong support for ministries, including religious education, music, social and environmental justice. 

Fair share giving also honors our differences. Though we are at different places in our lives, with different incomes and financial responsibilities, fair share allows each of us to make a meaningful promise of support for the UUCP. Fair share giving recognizes gifts large and small by celebrating all who make a commitment to generosity rather than focusing on dollar amounts.

Do I have to make a fair share pledge?

No. Pledging is an individual, confidential decision. Fair share giving may not be possible due to financial uncertainty or family challenges. Those who are new might not feel ready to make a fair share commitment. Those who have limited involvement might decline to support us at fair share levels. It is our hope that all members and friends who are a part of the UUCP and its mission will consider making a fair share pledge now or in the near future. Our goal is to increase the number of our pledging members and friends who commit to being fair share donors or are working toward becoming fair share.

How do I pledge?

Enclosed are materials you need to determine your fair share pledge and to make your pledge. If you have questions or concerns a member of the Stewardship team would love to speak with you to explain the process and receive your feedback. When you are ready, you can make your pledge by returning the pledge card in the envelope provided, simply send an email to Archie George (generalpledge@palouseuu.org) informing him of your 2026 pledge, or fill out the pledge form online at https://palouseuu.org/congregation-portal/donate/pledge-drive/, which sends Archie an email with the same information you would put on the paper pledge card enclosed.

We hope to receive your pledge before Dec. 1st, so we can finalize the 2026 budget.  A congregational meeting will be held in mid-December to approve the budget.