2023-24 Annual Appeal


Design by Christine Larson

At Unitarian Universalist Society: East we share many ideals and passions. We support one another in our common pursuit of making the world a better place. We draw strength from one another and welcome newcomers to join with us to enrich our community.  It is through the generosity of members and friends that we are able to continue to build our beloved community, seeking justice and compassion in a complex world.

There are important decisions to be made this year to ensure our finances are sustainable.  The Annual Appeal is focused on pledge income, the primary source of revenue for the church.  Balancing our budget will mean reducing expenses and increasing revenue. This will ensure that future members and friends enjoy the fruits of our generosity as we enjoy the benefits of our predecessors’ investment and generosity.

We are all deeply grateful for this friendly, committed, and thriving community.

We hope you will “Invest in our Future” by supporting the 2023-24 Annual Appeal as generously as you can.

Our Accomplishments in 2022-23

  • We joyously celebrated Rev. Josh’s 20th year of ministry to UUS:E. We continue to be grateful for his spiritual guidance and leadership.
  • We continue to provide spiritually rich services for our members, both in person and on Zoom.
  • We successfully reinstated in-person fund-raisers and other community-wide events.
  • We welcomed eight new members into our UUS:E community.
  • We took additional measures to improve air quality in the building.
  • We continue to support the Greater Hartford Interfaith Action Alliance both financially and through personal commitment and advocacy.
  • We enthusiastically transitioned to a robust in-person Religious Education program for children and youth.
  • We offered a wide array of programs for adults to explore their interests and support their spiritual growth.

Policy Board Goals for 2023-24

  • Pass a fiscally prudent balanced budget that includes reserve for Building and Grounds for 2023-24 and beyond.
  • Lead implementation of some of the recommended actions of UUA’s “Widening the Circle,” particularly those that do not impact our budget.
  • Amend our constitution to include term limits for NLDC members, to restore Memorial Garden trustees’ roles, responsibilities and appointment mechanism and to provide bonds or insurance adequate to protect UUSE’s assets.  Change our name from UUS:E to UUSE by revising applicable government documents and amending our constitution.
  • Increase revenue from outside sources by 10% over the next biennium.
  • Update UUSE’s covenant, vision, and mission statements to be consistent with Eighth Principle precepts and Widening the Circle recommendations.

Giving Guide

Pledge Form

Electronic Funds Transfer Form

Ways to give

The 2023-24 Stewardship Committee – Jason Corsa, Louisa Graver, Jean Knapp, Larry Lunden, Phil Sawyer, Stan McMillen, and Patricia Wildes