Each year, OUUC invites community nonprofit organizations to apply for funding through the Share the Plate program. OUUC commits to sharing 50% of weekly offerings to promote the mission of the Unitarian Universalist principles, with an emphasis on social, economic, and climate justice. 1/8 of that amount is directed to the Minister’s Benevolence Fund for short-term needs, with the remainder gifted to the six Share the Plate recipient organizations. The amount of the grants has varied but has ranged from $2000 – $3500.

Although all organizations serving the South Sound area (Lewis, Mason & Thurston counties) are invited to apply, additional consideration will be given to those organizations with budgets at or below $750,000, whose project is aligned closely with Unitarian Universalist principles. Specific projects of organizations with larger annual budgets will be considered. A mix of direct service and systemic change organizations will also be targeted. Organizations are eligible for awards every three years.

Seven Unitarian Universalist Principles:

1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person;

2. Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations;

3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;

4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;

5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;

6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;

7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

Timeline:

● January 1 – October 31, 2021 – Applications accepted online below.

● December 2021 – Six recipient organizations will be announced and notified. Each organization is assigned a two-month period in 2022 (starting with Jan-Feb and ending with Nov-Dec) that they will share offerings. Funds are distributed to the organizations approximately 2-4 weeks after the period ends.

Coaching:

Would you like some coaching on key things to consider in preparing your application? If so, contact Bob Brennand by October 8.

Share the Plate Application Please complete the application below and return by November 1, 2021, including brief and concise responses to the narrative questions. If your organization was a Share the Plate recipient in the past three years (2019-2021), you are not eligible for 2022.