The Pioneer February 2014 | Page 7

Reports & Articles It Takes Our Society We all know the expression, “It takes a village”. It takes a village to raise a child. It takes a village to bring humanity into the world. In reality, it takes a Society, a Society of like-minded people, a Society like our Unitarian Society, to make a real impact for good on the world around us. “It takes a Society!” Our minister and staff are the driving forces that make our Society run. The collective energies of our member volunteers make the Society come alive. Our great and beautiful building is the place where we gather, exchange ideas, gather strength, and dream about what the world can be. As Stewardship Sunday approaches, many of us think about how this special place functions. How do we make a positive impact on our world? How do we effectively promote greater social justice, a living wage for all, and fair and inclusive immigration policies? How can our Society lead us toward greater tolerance and understanding for all people? How can we make it all happen? It requires a combination of leadership, volunteers, and a strong budget. The Society’s annual budget is approximately $380,000. About 70 percent of that goes to compensate and support our minister and staff, and we strive to compensate them in a manner consistent with fair wages in our region. The remainder of the budget maintains our building and supports ongoing programs. When each of us pledges in accordance with our financial abilities, we are supporting a vibrant ministry, one that supports us, connects us, comforts and inspires us. We are supporting families, the education of the children, and our social justice aspirations. We are supporting our hopes for a better world. What we dream matters. What we d