Pledge Drive 2008
The Gift is Moving
The Native American expression of generosity and community: that "The Gift Must Move" (which was introduced to us with last year's Pledge Drive) continues to drive and define our church life:
The Gift - As benefactors of a small church established 180 years ago, the gifts that have been handed down to us over seven generations are no less amazing this year than last: a beautiful church facility; a rich and diverse religious education program; a core set of values which bind us together as well as launch us out into our surrounding community to offer a welcoming spirit and helping hand.
Is Moving - Recognizing we must keep the gift moving, both within our current congregation and on to future ones, we are answering the call. Our personal pledges and contributions are providing an increasing amount of the support needed for the programs that nurture our spirit and growth within the church and out into the community.
Let's keep the Gift Moving!
This pledge drive begins a new year for us to set goals, meet challenges, and encounter exciting opportunities. Seven generations after fourteen local citizens organized the Unitarian Church of Nashua, we have continued to witness the gift of Unitarian Universalism moving and growing. Please help us generously so that together we may pass on this gift in the upcoming year and for the next seven generations to come.
Pledge 1 - 2 - 3
- During the week of February 17, the church sent out pledge packets to everyone in our active database. This web page has the same information, or, if you need a pledge packet, please contact the church office
(603-882-1091) - Review the packet, including the pledge guidelines, to help you determine what you would like to give to the church this year.
- Complete the pledge form included in your packet and return it to the church office. You can mail your pledge to Assistant Treasurer, UU Church of Nashua, 58 Lowell Street, Nashua NH 03064, or drop it off in the church office which is on the first door on your left as you enter the White Wing Building from the sanctuary.
- Or, you can pledge online, safely and confidentially.
- Please return your pledges to the church by April 20. This gives our Executive Board time to develop our budget for the coming year.
Giving Guidelines
| Gross Annual Income | Recommended % of Gross Annual Income | Monthly Pledge Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to $10,000 | Any amount | |
| $10,000 to $20,000 | 1.0% | $9 to $17 |
| $20,000 to $30,000 | 1.5% | $25 to $38 |
| $30,000 to $40,000 | 2.0% | $50 to $67 |
| $40,000 to $50,000 | 2.5% | $84 to $105 |
| $50,000 to $80,000 | 3.0% | $125 to $200 |
| $80,000 and greater | 3.5% | $235 and greater |
- Timeline: We ask that you submit your pledge by April 15, 2008 to allow the Executive Board to develop the budget for the church's next fiscal year, which begins June 1st.
- Chose a Payment Method That Saves the Church Money: If you pay your pledge by credit card, consider switching to automatic bank account withdrawal, which saves the church credit card fees! Just attach a voided check to your pledge form and we will withdraw your pledge payments according to the schedule you specify.
- Update the Database: Included in your packet is a printout of the information we have about you in our database. If there are any changes or corrections, you return it along with your pledge.
Pledge FAQs
How do the pledge guidelines work?
The pledge guidelines suggest a fraction of gross income to be pledged and donated to the church. These guidelines were developed through a consensus-building process, asking ourselves to be generous but realistic in supporting the church.
Do people really use these guidelines?
Yes, we have received many positive comments from people who appreciate the guidelines. Families and individuals pledging to the guidelines represent a substantial portion of our operating income.
I'm not sure I can meet the guideline -- do I really need to pay that amount?
The amount you contribute is a personal decision, and the church is grateful for all pledges we receive. If financial hardship makes it difficult to give as you'd like, consider serving on a committee (or even chairing one).
What is the best way to pay my pledge?
We recommend an automatic monthly donation through a bank draft or credit card. Bank drafts save the church credit card fees. If you would like to pay using this method just attach a voided check to your pledge form and we will withdraw your pledge payments according to the schedule you specify. If you provide your credit card information on the pledge form, we will automatically process your monthly donation.
What about the endowment - are we really making any progress weaning ourselves from that?
Absolutely! We've reduced our reliance on the endowment from 61% of operating expenses in 2002 - 2003 to 35% in 2007 - 2008.
And last year, for the first time, we were able to contribute our Fair Share to the UUA & District. Now doesn't it feel good to be fully participating members of the larger organizations that help to sustain our congregation and those of New England as a whole?
2007 - 2008
Note: Everything we collect from the plate goes to community outreach efforts or to support a particular denominational project.
More Information
- New this year: You can pledge online. The link is to a secure page, and all information is confidential.
- If you need a pledge packet, please contact the church office , 603-882-1091)
- If you have any questions or ideas about the pledge drive, please contact the 2008 Pledge Drive Chair, Chip McGee .
- If you would like more information about church membership, please contact our Membership Coordinator, Sherri Woolsey (603-882-1091)
