Beloved UU Asheville Community,

As the leaves unfurl in their vibrant spring hues, so too has your incredible generosity blossomed during our annual budget drive. My heart swells with gratitude as I share that we have reached an inspiring 90% of our budget goal! This remarkable achievement is a testament to the courage and love that defines our congregation. So many of you have stretched your giving, demonstrating a deep commitment to the values and mission we share. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for your profound and heartfelt support.

We are in the home stretch now, and the energy is palpable! Every dollar pledged is a building block for the vital ministries, programs, and community outreach that make UU Asheville such a beacon of hope and connection. If you are among those who have already made your pledge, thank you again for your partnership. Your commitment is deeply appreciated and truly makes a difference in the lives of so many.

For those households who have not yet had the opportunity to pledge, there is still time to join this collective act of generosity. Every contribution, no matter the size, strengthens our foundation and ensures that we can continue to be a vibrant and impactful presence in our community.  

Looking ahead, this coming Sunday after the service, we will hold our crucial Budget Town Hall. This is a vital opportunity for everybody in our congregation to participate in the democratic process that shapes our future. At the Town Hall, the church leadership will present the draft budget for the coming year. As we didn’t quite reach our ambitious goal to balance the budget, this meeting will be particularly important as we discuss potential adjustments and priorities for the year ahead.

Your voice matters. Your questions are valuable. Your insights are essential as we navigate the path forward together. This is your chance to understand the financial framework that underpins our shared mission and to contribute to the decisions that will guide our steps in the coming year. Engaging in the Budget Town Hall is a powerful way to live our Unitarian Universalist principles of democracy and the inherent worth and dignity of every person.

We believe in the power of “Everybody In.” This isn’t just a slogan; it’s a deeply held conviction that our collective strength lies in the participation and engagement of each and every member. Just as every pledge contributes to our financial stability, every voice contributes to the richness and wisdom of our decision-making.

Let’s carry this spirit of courageous generosity through to the finish line of our budget drive and bring that same energy and commitment to the Budget Town Hall this Sunday. Together, we can ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for UU Asheville, a future where everyone feels a sense of belonging and where our collective impact continues to ripple outwards with love and justice.

I look forward seeing you at the Budget Town Hall and forging our path together.  

With hope and gratitude,

Will Jernigan