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 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 historically ranged from $2000 – $3500 pre-COVID.
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:
- The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
- Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
- Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
- A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
- The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;
- The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;
- Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.
Timeline:
- January 1 – October 15, 2020 – applications accepted online
- December 2020 – Six recipient organizations announced and notified. Each organization is assigned a two-month period in 2021 (starting with January-February and ending with November-December) that they will share offerings. Funds are distributed to the organizations approximately 2-4 weeks after the period ends.
Questions:
Contact Bob Brennand.
Share the Plate Application
Please complete the application below and return by October 15, 2020, including brief responses to the narrative questions.