Support for Underserved Non-Geographic Chapters

As more non-geographic chapters have formed in the UUMA, it has become clear that some non-geographic chapters may require additional resources to be the flourishing source of connection and support that so many of our colleagues yearn for.  

Because we need one another, we have discerned specific resources that we can offer to you as chapter leaders in the spirit of nurturing equity and inclusion and in hopes that they might create more experiences of belonging for more colleagues. These resources were brainstormed by continental staff and we look forward to being in conversation with you about what we can offer differently or additionally to support your leadership and the development of your chapter.

PROVIDING CHAPTER TREASURER SUPPORT

As requested, we have imagined ways the UUMA can support the finances of our non-geographic chapters. We revisited the expectation of having a chapter treasurer.  We understand that there are a number of reasons that dealing with money and finances may be burdensome for your chapter and we would like to offer support. That means something different to each chapter. From holding and distributing funds to providing general counsel about the best practices – let us know what you need. 

CHAPTER SUBSIDY

Speaking of funding, each chapter qualifies for a $500 subsidy annually from the UUMA if they meet the basic requirements we’ve established. As a gesture of support, we’d like to offer that if you spend all of your subsidy before the fiscal year ends and identify additional need, we will provide a second subsidy. We don’t want you to feel limited by finances as you grow your chapter and encourage you to use this money to pay worship or program leaders, to provide everyone with lunch during a virtual retreat, or anything else you dream up to engage your chapter.

CHAPTER STAFFING SUPPORT POSITION

Finally, we acknowledge that the structural oppression and racism that create the need for identity based non-geographic chapters also impacts leadership availability. We also understand that geographically diverse chapters need a lot of leadership to organize and develop. If there is a member of your leadership council/roster that has space and time to take on increased responsibility, we are prepared to provide modest compensation for the duration of this current fiscal year. We have budgeted a maximum rate of $20 per hour for up to 50 total hours of work on behalf of your chapter per fiscal year. We are imagining that a temporary staff person could hold responsibilities such as convening meetings, planning retreats, seeking out and securing program leaders at your direction, preparing and sending communications about events etc.  

WHAT’S NEXT?  

If you want to explore how any of these possibilities might work for your chapter or brainstorm additional possibilities, I’d be glad to have a conversation with you. We want to support you and your leadership.