Unitarian Universalist Church West

We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.
- Winston Churchill

We are the church and all it means inside and outside its walls – in mutual generosity we share our time, talent and treasure. And, as we consider making our annual pledge of financial commitment we consider what this community brings to our lives:

Ideas – Sermons intrigue, challenge and inspire us and our minds and hearts are expanded
Music – Beautiful music fills our ears and our souls at every service
Caring – In times of need, it’s comforting to know that we will be supported and cared for
Spirituality & Wisdom – Our religious freedom encourages a shared search for truth and meaning
Outreach – Together we practice compassion and work for a just and sustainable world
Friendship – Adults and children alike develop deep and meaningful relationships

Each year in March, as we approach the beginning of a new fiscal year, UUCW reaches out to ‘canvass’ the congregation, encouraging members to reflect on how important the church is in our lives, and to make a financial commitment of support through an annual pledge. About 80% of the UUCW budget comes from pledges so each member shares the joy and responsibility of sustaining our church. View the Canvass brochure.

The kick-off event for the pledge drive each year is the ‘Canvass Evening’ and all church members are invited to attend. The evening’s activities include great food and beverages as well as entertainment full of music and laughter.

Pledge Now

Pledges are accepted throughout the month of March by calling the confidential voice mail of Ebbie Duggins in the church office at (262) 782-3535, ext. 10, or by emailing her using the main Church E-mail address listed in the front of the church phone directory.

Commonly Asked Questions about Pledging

I understand why we give money, but why do we have to make a PLEDGE? If we don’t have pledges we cannot create a financial plan for the fiscal year.  We budget and operate the church in accordance with the income we expect from pledges.

How do I pay my pledge? We strongly encourage members to sign up for monthly auto-pay through your checking account to keep a consistent flow of income for the church. Download an auto-pay authorization form. Alternatively, many members place a check in the offering basket on a weekly or monthly basis. If you pay with cash make sure to indicate your name on the offering envelope so your account is properly credited. Some members pay by mail and others by stock transfer.

How much should I give? While this is a personal decision we encourage members to pledge 3-5% of their annual income. If this is not possible, make a goal to work toward this amount or at least consider some level of increased commitment each year. A giving guide is provided below.

How much do others give? Last year’s pledges ranged as high as $22,000.

What if my financial situation changes? Let the church office know and we will adjust your pledge according to your wishes.

Calculate Your Pledge

Download the Excel Pledge Calculator, or use the form below.
To calculate your 2010-11 pledge based on income:
a.) Income (before taxes):            ______
b.) Percent I want to pledge:        ______%
c.) Annual Pledge calculation:
Line (a) × Line (b) ÷100 =            ______
d.) Monthly Pledge Amount:
Line (c) ÷ 12 =                            ______

To calculate your 2010-11 pledge based on last year’s pledge:
a.) Last Year’s Pledge:                   ______
b.) Percent Increase:                     ______%
c.) Pledge increase calculation:
Line (a) × Line (b) ÷100 =             ______
d.) Annual Pledge Calculation:
Line (a) + Line (c) =                      ______
e.) Monthly Pledge Amount:
Line (d) ÷ 12 =                             ______