All about pledging

WHAT IS A PLEDGE?
A pledge is a promise to give financial support during the church's fiscal year. Our upcoming fiscal year runs from July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027.

WHY DO WE PLEDGE?
We base each year's operating budget on the amount of pledges we receive. The operating budget funds all of the programs and ministries of our church, staff compensation, and upkeep of buildings and grounds. Pledges fund about 85% of our annual church operations.

HOW MUCH SHOULD I PLEDGE?
We typically ask families to consider pledging 2% of their annual income and then adjust up or down from there as they feel comfortable.  Our median annual pledge is $1,300 per family. Our average annual pledge is $2,000 per family. There is no minimum pledge and pledges are kept confidential.

WHEN DO I MAKE A PLEDGE?
We hold an Annual Pledge Drive each year in the spring. Those who join our church community at another time of the year are asked to make a pledge for the remainder of the fiscal year (ending June 30th, 2027).
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FAIR SHARE CONTRIBUTION GUIDE
WHAT IS STEWARDSHIP?
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
TRANSPARENT GENEROSITY
​OPERATING BUDGET OVERVIEW
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A Letter from Reverend Thom


​Dear Beloved Congregants,
 
To practice leadership in this moment is to experience deep contrasts. It is to serve a thriving congregation when so much in our world seems to be crumbling. It is to serve a community expanding its welcome during a time when so many in our community are vilified. It is to invest in the future – especially the future of our children – even when so much feels perilous. It is to choose courage in frightening times.
 
Especially in these times I am so thankful for our church. As an incubator for courageous engagement, we are actively working for voter engagement, to support immigrants, to organize protest, and to work in powerful relationship with UU Justice NC. We do powerful ministry with our children and youth, including the Our Whole Lives program. Day after day, week after week, this community is helping us to center love and connection, commitment and courage.
 
February 1st marks the beginning of our Annual Pledge Drive. This is a time when we are asked to reflect on what we are able to give in the coming fiscal year, and to respond with a promise to give generously to support this church. What we all decide to give, collectively, determines the level of programming we are able to offer – from worship and music to religious education, from community events to justice work.
 
For me, this congregation represents the deepest expression of my values. When I give generously, I know I am helping to create the world in which I want to live. I invite you to reflect on what this congregation means to you, to your family, and to your fellow congregants. I invite you to respond as generously as you possibly can.
 
In Faith,
 
Rev. Thom
Questions? Please email our Congregational Administrator, or call (919) 229-9452.

Previous Pledge Drive webpages can be viewed here:
Annual Pledge Drive '26
Annual Pledge Drive '25
Annual Pledge Drive '24
Annual Pledge Drive '23