GET INVOLVED There is so much happening at UUFC and plenty of ways to get involved! Check out our social events, interest groups, discussion groups, classes, service opportunities and more. At UUFC you can deepen your friendships, your faith, and your connection to our community. The best way to stay informed is to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter View Our Most Recent Newsletter Interest Groups ADULT FAITH EXPLORATION, CLASSES, AND WORKSHOPS Our programming for adults encourage the transformational, self-directed learning that lies at the heart of Unitarian Universalism. Offerings are held in a variety of online and in-person settings and cover a vast range of topics. Watch the newsletter for the current offerings! NOVEL CIRCLE BOOK CLUB First Wednesday of each month at 7:30pm, in person and online. Open to m embers and friends who enjoy reading novels and discussing their relevance to our lives. Coordinated by Gail B. & Cindy L. MOVIES-WITH-A-MESAGE Meeting once-a-month to watch a film together and discuss a fterwards. Bring your own snacks , or sometimes , there's a potluck . Watch your newsletter for upcoming movies! HUULA HIKES HUULA Hikes are open to all! Hikes are scheduled well ahead of time, and trail maps are reviewed prior to the hike. Participants meet in a central location and carpool to various trailheads in the upstate, always hiking together following safety protocol. Coordinated by Sara S-H. UUFC CHOIR Mondays at 7:00. Come sing wit h us! New folks are always welcome; experience is not necessary--just a willingness to make music, form friendships, and have fun. Contact music@uufc.org for more information. ONLINE BINGO Thursdays at 6:30 pm Join UUFC's online BINGO group (using Google Meets). Email admin@uufc.org for a bingo card and contact Karen S. if you'd like the link to join the fun! MEDITATION Tuesdays at 7:00 pm. Everyone is welcome to join us for forty minutes of silent meditation, followed by tea and conversation every Tuesday in the Sanctuary. Contact Bob Hiott for more information. ANNUAL CAMPING TRIPS This is a favorite activity--we camp rain or shine, usually at a group campsite! We have a group cookout/potluck and plenty of activities to stay busy (or stay back and mind the fire)! Coordinated by Kathy C. Volunteer at UUFC WORSHIP ASSOCIATES Worship Associates help lead worship on Sunday mornings by offering the welcoming, announcements, readings, etc. If you are interested in becoming a worship associate, please speak to the minister. SPECIAL MUSIC PERFORMERS Do you play a musical instrument? If you're interested in performing as part of a Sunday service, please reach out to music@uufc.org FAITH FORMATION FOR CHIL DREN AND YOUTH Classes meet most Sunday mornings. Anyone working with children must be background-checked and follow our child protection guidelines. Contact dlff@uufc.org for more information or to register your children for class. Community Volunteer Opportunities HABITAT FOR HUMANITY Join the UUFC team that works with Pickens County Habitat for Humanity on the 4th Saturday morning monthly. Habitat brings people together to build homes, community, and hope here in Pickens County. If you would like to participate, please contact Gordon Crain . OUR DAILY REST Volunteers provide a bi-monthly Monday evening meal for the 35 homeless people at Our Daily Rest Shelter in Seneca . To participate contact ourdailyrest@uufc.org ​ Office Hours Monday: 8am - 12pm Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 8am - 2pm Thursday: 8am - 12pm Friday: 8am - 12pm Due to the small size of our office staff and volunteer staffing, please call if you are dropping by without an appointment, otherwise you might find we're out running errands! Quick Contact List Minister minister@uufc.org or (864) 623-7917 Office Administration admin@uufc.org Care Team minister@uufc.org or (864) 654-5959 Information info@uufc.org Music Director music@uufc.org Pastoral Care (864) 654-5959 Webmaster websupport@uufc.org President, Board of Trustees president@uufc.org Director, Lifespan Faith Formation dlff@uufc.org Board of Trustees Contacts A-Z

One Community. UUFC is a certified Welcoming Congregation. Learn what that means > Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Clemson is committed to renewing our status as a Welcoming Congregation in 2023. WELCOME We are a progressive spiritual community that celebrates a tolerant and thoughtful search for spiritual meaning. We hope you will find a home with us. Whatever your age, gender, social background, orientation, gender identity or ethnic origin, you are welcome here. We gather together in a spirit of love, With justice as our guide. This is our chosen covenant: To dwell together in peace, To seek the truth with freedom, And to care for one another. Sunday Service June 4th is Rev. Christina Branum-Martin's last Sunday in the pulpit at UUFC! Don't miss this special multigenerational service, "With Gratitude", featuring bridging ceremonies and new members. Or join our live sermon on Youtube. Our Principles 1. The inherent worth & dignity of every person. 5. The right of conscience & the use of the democratic process within our congregation & society at large. ​ 2. Justice, equity & compassion in human relations. 6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty and justice for all. ​ 3. Acceptance of one another & encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations. ​ 7. Respect for the interdependent web of existence, of which we are all a part. 4. A free & responsible search for truth & meaning. Proposed 8th Principle Read More > Welcoming Congregation We accept and affirm people of all sexualities and gender identities. Read More > Green Sanctuary We celebrate the environment in our congregation and in society and support Climate Justice. Read More > Pledge to End Racism We are a founding Congregation of the Clemson Area Pledge to End Racism. Together, we facilitate and participate in activities to identify racism and create racial equity. Read More > Immigration We actively participate in programs that support immigrants and refugees in our communities. Read More >

Sunday Service 10:30 am Join us at UUFC, followed by coffee hour. Or join us online here. ​ Livestream will play below at approximately 10:30 AM every Sunday. ​View Livestream in new window Past Sermon Video Archive For issues with the Sunday morning livestream, please contact techstuff@uufc.org .

Leadership Minister: Rev. Christina Branum-Martin minister@uufc.org Board Agendas Board Minutes Finance Congregational Meeting Agendas Congregational Meeting Minutes Organizational Documents ​ Board of Trustees The UUFC Board of Trustees meets on the 4th Sunday of each month at noon. Minutes of these meetings are available once they are approved (usually at the following month's meeting). Agendas will be posted prior to each month's meeting. Minutes Agendas President: Kathy Crain president@uufc.org President-Elect: Karl Dieter presidentelect@uufc.org Secretary: Sarah McNeill secretary@uufc.org Congregational Financial Officer: Michael Elder cfo@uufc.org Program Council Chair: Elaine Faithful council@uufc.org ​ Past President: Tom Hiebel pastpresident@uufc.org Council of Committees Council Chair: Elaine Faithful council@uufc.org Care Committee: Sarah McNeill care@uufc.org ​ Communications: Suzy Marcus comm@uufc.org ​ Lifelong Faith Formation: Karen Heibel dlff@uufc.org ​ Membership: Sarah McNeill membership@uufc.org ​ Ministerial Search Committee: Mary Orem & Mel Berger search@uufc.org ​ Music: Elaine Fredendall music@uufc.org ​ Social Action: Holley Ulbrich socialaction@uufc.org ​ Stewardship: Sarah Summers-Hoskin stewardship@uufc.org ​ Treasurer: Meg MacArthur treasurer@uufc.org ​ Worship: Elaine Faithful worship@uufc.org Contacts Founder's House Office Hours Monday: 8am - 12pm Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10am - 2pm Thursday: 8am - 12pm Friday: 8am - 12pm Due to the small size of our office staff and volunteer staffing, please call if you are dropping by without an appointment, otherwise you might find we're out running errands!

Contact Us Leadership Contacts Office Hours Monday: 8am - 12pm Tuesday: -- Closed -- Wednesday: 8am - 2pm Thursday: 8am - 12pm Friday: 8am - 12pm Due to the small size of our office staff and volunteer staffing, please call if you are dropping by without an appointment, otherwise you might find we're out running errands! Quick Contact List Minister minister@uufc.org or 864-623-7917 UUFC Office admin@uufc.org or 864-654-5959 Music Director music@uufc.org Webmaster comm@uufc.org Board President president@uufc.org Faith Formation dlff@uufc.org ​ Contact admin@uufc.org to request a full directory.

Our History In 1950, the Breggers and the Rutledges joined with ten Unitarians in Greenville to form the Unitarian Fellowship of Greenville. ​ By 1954, there were enough Unitarians in Clemson to organize a local congregation. In March of 1954, the twelve charter members brought together the Unitarian Fellowship of Clemson. Members met in the homes of various members. ​ In 1958, the Fellowship began meeting in the Clemson YMCA. By 1974 the membership had increased to fifty, and had outgrown the facilities at the Y. About that time, Merrill and Charlotte Palmer left the Methodist Church because of conflict over race relations and found a new home in the Fellowship, bringing with them their gift of music. ​ S tarting in the 1970s, the congregation began offering the UUA sexuality education programs to adolescents from the larger community, to grateful response. ​ Charter Members John & Myra Bregger Ray & Muriel Rutledge Tate & Julia Lindsey Albert & Margery Reed Mrs. Ralph Kelly Norma Pearson Malcolm Steuer Hazel Murray In 1978, the congregation took a leap of faith and purchased two lots on Pendleton Road in Clemson. Construction began in 1979 on the 25th anniversary of the founding of the fellowship. ​ On April 20, 1980, the Clemson Unitarian Fellowship building was dedicated. Rapid growth of membership resulted in adding a Religious Education wing in 1984 and an enlarged parking lot in in 1986-88. In 1988, the congregation changed its name to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Clemson. In 2014 Eve Stevens, who was raised in the congregation, was ordained to the Unitarian Universalist ministry and is currently serving a congregation in Charlotte, North Carolina. ​ The present sanctuary was added in 1994, along with substantial renovations to the existing building in order to accommodate a growing congregation of about 90. The architectural shift reflected a change in the relationship of the congregation to the larger community as more open to the outside world and less barricaded from perceived hostility. ​ ​ ​ Section Title About UUFC About Unitarian Universalism UUFC Leadership Stewardship Social Justice Contact Us Our Congregation Founded 1954 For over half a century, our congregation has served those in pursuit of a community of love, strength and support that is larger than ourselves. ​ We seek to be an inclusive space, where the diverse perspectives, cultures, backgrounds and needs of our members are respected and valued. We are a member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), in the Southern Region, South Eastern District, Western Carolina Cluster. ​ ​ Our Covenant Our congregation is home to many different belief systems. Our covenants are the agreements that bind us in mutual respect to each other, our commuity and the world we live in. We gather together in a spirit of love, With justice as our guide. ​ This is our chosen covenant: To dwell together in peace, To seek the truth with freedom, And to care for one another. Our Minister minister@uufc.org Our current minister is Rev. Christina Branum-Martin. Christina joined us as interim minister as a graduate from Candler School of Divinity at Emory University. Christina formerly served as a Religious Educator at Northwest UU in Sandy Springs, GA, and as Chaplain at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. Our Principles Our seven principles are the most basic, common guiding beliefs of all Unitarian Universalists. The inherent worth and dignity of every person; Justice, equity and compassion in human relations; Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations; A free and responsible search for truth and meaning; The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large; The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all; Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. You can find more information on the seven principles on UUA.org . ​ You can read about the Proposed 8th Principle on racial justice at 8thprincipleuu.org . UUFC Covenant Our Ministe 7 Principle History ​ ​ The congregation had several short-lived experiments with professional ministry in the 1980s, but by 1990s it was almost evenly divided between those who wanted to call a full-time minister and those who liked things just as they were. The question was tabled for a while. The Program Committee arranged for a monthly pulpit supply with ministers from other congregations. ​ In 1996, spurred on by the arrival the retired Rev. Ralph Stutzman, the congregation voted to initiate the process of seeking a full-time minister. The congregation voted in December 1997 to approve the appointment of Rev. Cynthia Prescott as an Extension Minister, ending 44 years as a lay-led fellowship. ​ ​ In 1999, the congregation had the opportunity to buy two adjacent lots, one fronting on Pendleton Road and one fronting on Gregory Street. In 2001 UUFC purchased the building on Pendleton Road now known as Founders' House. The congregation raised the needed funds to not only purchase the building but also to build an environmentally responsible parking lot with grassed parking spaces supported by plastic grids, and to renovate the newly purchased building for office and meeting space. ​ With much joy, the financial council was able to announce the payment of the building mortgage in 2021, followed by a mortgage burning and celebratory barbeque. ​​ ​ Office Hours Monday: 8am - 12pm Tuesday: -- Closed -- Wednesday: 8am - 2pm Thursday: 8am - 12pm Friday: 8am - 12pm Due to the small size of our office staff and volunteer staffing, please call if you are dropping by without an appointment, otherwise you might find we're out running errands! Quick Contact List Minister minister@uufc.org or 864-623-7917 UUFC Office admin@uufc.org or 864-654-5959 Music Director music@uufc.org Webmaster websupport@uufc.org Board President president@uufc.org Faith Exploration dlff@uufc.org ​ Contact admin@uufc.org to request a full directory.

Section Title Unitarian Universalists... We are a living faith tradition of people who believe in the calling to create a world we can all share without fear. ​ We come from many religions (or no religion), cultures, backgrounds and origins. Frequently Asked Questions Our Congregation Copyright Unitarian Universalist Association ... keep our promises. UU's create community by covenant, a promise of how we will treat and respect one another throughout our work, no matter how large or small. ​ And we're not perfect. If we break our covenant, we seek to right our wrongs in the way that creates positive change in our world and our relationships. ... work together, without fear of dogma or spiritual wrongness. ​ We are bound together by our seven principles and common goals, rather than a singular religious belief. You can find more information on the seven principles on UUA.org . ​ You can read about the Proposed 8th Principle on racial justice at 8thprincipleuu.org . ... accept & value our neighbors. We seek to love each other and the members of the wider Beloved Community, not in spite of, but because of our differences. What is Beloved Community? ... encourage each other. We create spaces for ourselves and others in our community to explore who they are, who they can become and what we can achieve together. We celebrate the each other's journey's, even if they are different from the path we would have chosen. ... strive for more than equality. We look for ways to create equity and inclusion in our community, in order to celebrate and appreciate the cultures we all come from and help provide the support each community needs. ... value our world. We seek awareness of how our actions influence our neighbors, as well as the natural world around us. We seek peace and justice for all. ... haven't always been right. Our American history begins in the 1700's. While our beliefs and practices have changed, we must admit that our religious ancestors were not always on the right side of history. ... do better. We commit ourselves to overcoming the wrongs of the past by actively challenging harmful systems and practices, by educating ourselves and our peers, and by working to give a voice to those who have been negatively effected by the actions of our ancestors.

What is Unitarian Universalism? ​ Unitarian Universalism is a liberal religion -- that is, a religion with an open mind to the religious questions people struggle with in all times and places. ​ We are a "non-creedal" religion: we do not ask anyone to subscribe to a formal code of beliefs. Rather, each member is encouraged to embark on a conscientious, life-long quest for religious, spiritual or moral beliefs in which they come to feel deeply they personally believe. We believe that personal experience, conscience and reason should be the final authorities in religion, and that religious authority lies not in a single book or person or institution, but in ourselves. What do you believe? ​ Unitarian Universalists have a wide variety of personal beliefs, and we celebrate those differences rather than letting them divide us. We meet to discuss the big questions about life, death, divinity, spirituality, and our own personal experiences that all people struggle with. Our congregations do our best to abide by our Seven Principles , meant to remind us to pursue a life of love and respect. ​ We draw our teachings from the Six Sources , which include the wise teachings of many religions, the words and lives of prophetic people and the direct experience of each individual. How do you choose your leadership? The 5th principle calls us to utilize the democratic process within our congregations whenever possible. Every congregation is slightly different. At UUFC, all final decisions regarding the appointment of volunteer, ministerial or other paid staff are approved by congregational vote. ​ UUFC relies on the generosity of our members and the sound decision-making of our Financial Committee. Naturally, we are transparent in our budget process and spending. ​ Are there a lot of Unitarian Universalists? ​ As of 2020, there were 800,000 Unitarian Universalists in 1,048 congregations in over 30 countries worldwide. Each congregation is governed democratically by its members, but we are all a part of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Why do you have such a long name? ​ Unitarianism and Universalism were once both seperately evolving, liberal denominations, which merged in 1961 to form the Unitarian Universalist Association. Some older congregations still carry either Unitarian or Universalist in their name. ​ Most of us think it's long too, so we often shorten it to UU. Why do you have so many meetings? Many UU's believe that our greatest contributions are in service to one another and to others. Naturally, we have a lot of work to do. But it's okay, we have coffee (and tea)! How do you protect children and vulnerable people in your congregations? ​ We value every person who steps through our doors, whether you are a visitor or member, child or adult. UUFC has worked hard through the years to develop congregational policies that avoid placing individuals in situations where harm might occur. Additionally, we have written policies in place that direct our leadership responses to any harm that might occur. ​ COVID 19 Response Child Protection Policy Policy on Sexual Misconduct and Sexual or Physical Abuse or Harassment Section Title Answers Questioned A Unitarian Universalist FAQ We are a living faith tradition of people who believe in the calling to create a world we can all share without fear. ​ We come from many religions (or no religion), cultures, backgrounds and geographic origins. Frequently Asked Questions Our Congregation Copyright Unitarian Universalist Association Terms you might hear: Beloved Community - a term used by MLK to describe a radically inclusive and equal society where we live in consideration of the needs of our neighbors ​ Clemson Pledge - or "The Pledge" or "CAPER"; the Clemson Pledge to End Racism ; an interreligious organization in Clemson promoting racial equality and equity ​ covenant - an agreement between parties; among UU's, the pacts that govern the way we agree to work and worship together ​ GA - General Assembly ; typically the UUA GA ​ Humanism - a faith based largely upon reason, science, art and the human experience rather than, or as, the divine ​ OWL (Our Whole Lives) - a comprehensive, holistic youth education program addressing sexual education, gender issues, relationships and spirituality ​ R.E. - Religious Education; a former name for Lifelong Faith Formation, still sometimes used as shorthand, usually for Children & Youth classes ​ SCUUJA - South Carolina UU Justice Association; scuuja.org ​ UU -Unitarian Universalist; as in UUFC, UU 101, UUA ​ UUA - Unitarian Universalist Association; learn more ​ Do UU's Believe In Jesus? ​ In general, we believe that Jesus was an exemplary leader who chose love and service over self-interest; a reformer, a dissadent, and a political prisoner who challenged his followers to seek change in an unjust culture and to seek wholeness over division. Read More About UU Beliefs on Jesus > More Questions about Unitarian Universalism...​ Why did the Unitarian Universalist cross the road? To support the chicken in the search for its own path. How many UUs does it take to change a lightbulb? None. We accept the lightbulb just the way it is. Do you deny the divinity of Christ? No. We don't deny the divinity of anyone. What is the UU Holy Trinity? Reduce, reuse, recycle. What is the UU Holy Trinity? Reduce, reuse, recycle.

LIFESPAN FAITH FORMATION Lifespan Faith Formation strives to create an environment in which individuals of all ages can comfortably and safely explore their faith and beliefs, both individually and in a small group setting. Classes are offered beginning in kindergarten and continuing into adulthood for those seeking answers to questions and questions to answers. Children & Youth Adults & Small Groups Campus Ministry Contact Children & Youth Registration About > Protective Policies > Classes are on Sunday mornings. The children and youth start in the main service. After a Time For All Ages and assisting with collecting food for Clemson Community Care, they leave for their classes with a song. ​ Elementary and Advanced Learners finish by 11:40 (usually around the end of the service.) Teens go a little longer, until noon. ​ ​ Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. - Karen Hiebel, Director Ages 4 & Under The nursery remains closed for deep cleaning and new staff hires. Nursery aged children are welcome to remain in the sanctuary with their families. Our Peaceful Play space is available for all ages every Sunday morning, and children may take an activity bag to their seats if they prefer. The rocking chair is reserved for adults with infants or toddlers. In addition, parents or guardians are invited to take active or fussy children to the Social Room, and watch the service on the monitor there. Kindergarten - 3rd Grade Spirit Play, modeled partly on the Montessori method of learning, encourages children to ask questions of wonder. Stories from all traditions, including our own, introduce children to promises (principles) of Unitarian Universalism. To reinforce these, children have independent work time as part of the lesson. 4th-7th Grade The curriculum for this group changes each year, covering Unitarian Universalism, world religions and social justice work. Past units have included Harry and UU, Travel in Time and Toolbox of Faith. 8th-12th Grade Our teens work with their adult advisors to plan a variety of activities for the group, from formal lessons to fun and fellowship events. ​ Past activities have included planning and leading a worship service, overnight lock-ins, and field trips. Children & Youth Adults Groups & Registration Lifespan Religious Exploration coordinates and promotes a variety of adult education programs which encourage the transformational, self-directed learning that lies at the heart of Unitarian Universalism. ​ Groups are led by approved facilitators and held in a variety of online and in-person settings. Covenant Groups Adults are encouraged to explore significant topics influencing their life and spirituality through guided group study and ritual. ​ Covenant groups offer a supportive setting for personal growth and building community. ​ Classes & Workshops What is a Unitarian Universalist and how do you become one? What do we believe and what do we have in common? ​ Adult workshops include UU 101, Building Your Own Theology and other similar topics. Interest Groups (The Fun Stuff) ​ Although terminally serious, UU's do occasionally like to socialize. Groups such as the Novel Circle and the revolving Circle Dinner meet on a recurring basis. ​ ​ Adults Campus Ministry Campus Ministry Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and transition in ministry staff, our Campus Ministry Group is currently on hold. ​ If you are a local college student and wish to learn more about our congregation, please contact the Director of Lifelong Faith Formation . ​ Current members wishing to volunteer for campus ministry should contact the Program Council Chair for first steps. ​ ​ Visit Us About Unitarian Universalism Our Congregation

COMMUNITY & SOCIAL JUSTICE As Unitarian Universalists, we are committed to positive change within our community and the Beloved Community at large. ​ The Social Action Committee has active groups working towards social and environmental justice and support of various charities in the area with donations and volunteerism. .Programs that UUFC supports financially often receive substantial in-kind assistance through hours of volunteer time provided by members. This volunteer component allows UUFC members and friends to act collectively on their faith. Collective Activism Community Support Resource List Contact Collective Activism Our fellowship finds meaning in the sharing of our different lives and experiences and recognizes the value in every individual. ​ As a congregation, we join together in support of many Unitarian Universalist and interfaith efforts to improve our society in the name of peace, liberty and justice. ​ Welcoming Congregation Initiated by the Unitarian Universalist Generally Assembly in 1989, the Welcoming Congregations Program through training to recognize the struggles of LGBTQ+ people and create an environment of acceptance and inclusion. ​ UUFC was the first to receive the Welcoming Congregation designation in South Carolina in 2004, confirmed by congregational vote in 2005. Clemson Area Pledge to End Racism In 2018, a congregational debate on whether to raise a Black Lives Matter banner resulted in a commitment to looking more deeply into the challenge of unconscious racism and white privilege. The response was a multi-congregational effort under the title of the Clemson Area Pledge to End Racism, spearheaded by Rev. Balof and UUFC, and mirroring the Richmond Pledge to End Racism . ​ As of 2022, UUFC participates in CAPER with 12 other local supporting congregations and organizations. South Carolina UU Justice Alliance Founded in 2021, SCUUJA is the South Carolina state action network for UU congregations. SCUUJA allows congregations within SC to connect on local and regional social action issues such as education, the environment, immigration, LGBTQ+ justice, voting access, Women's reproductive rights. Side With Love Launched by the UUA GA in 2009 in response to the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church shooting, the Standing on the Side of Love campaign to actively challenged exclusion, oppression, and violence based on sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, race, religion, or any other identity. ​ Since its inception, the UUA has transitioned to the Side With Love campaign, encompassing LGBTQ+ equality, anti-racism work, reproductive justice, inclusive representation, immigration and the rights of incarcerated people. ​ We began our participation in 2010, withthe tradition of re-imagining Valentine’s Day as a social justice holiday. Since 2012, this event has evolved into the “Thirty Days of Love“ –a month-long spiritual journey and commitment to sustained action and service. Green Sanctuary Originally an outgrowth of the Seventh Principle Project, to imagine what it would look like if congregational life reflected the seventh Principle of Unitarian Universalism, “Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.” The Green Sanctuary Program evolved as a call to carry out a series of actions addressing various environmental issues. In 2006, delegates to the UUA General Assembly adopted the Statement of Conscience on the Threat of Global Warming/Climate Change-arguably the clearest and strongest statement on that subject by a religious institution to date. ​ UUFC formed a Environmental Action Committee in 2004 and was designated a Green Sanctuary in 2006. In 2017, we recommitted to our Green Sanctuary Pledge. Welcoming/SWL Pledge Green Sanc SCUUJA Collective Activism Community Action Benevolence Monthly Benevolence List The UUFC Benevolence Program is our way of providing financial support to various local charities that combat hunger, homelessness and social inequality. The UUFC contributes 25% of all undesignated cash received in Sunday collections to four non-profit agencies on a rotating basis. Individuals can also write checks payable to UUFC by designating in the check memo line that 100% be for the benevolence of the month. Clemson Community Care Clemson Community Care is Clemson's local food bank. In addition to food programs, CCC also assists with needs such as school supplies and hygiene products. Benevolence Months: March, July, November Ripple of One Ripple of One provides material and educational resources and financial literacy to low-income families in the Upstate. Ripple seeks to end generational poverty by supporting families emotionally as well as their physical needs. Benevolence Months: February, June, October Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity builds homes for people who would not otherwise have a place to call their own.. Habitat builds in collaboration with the future owners because everyone, everywhere should have a healthy, affordable place to call home. When a family helps build or improve a place they can call home, they are also building a better community, a better life for themselves. UUFC has been engaged with Habitat in Pickens and Oconee Counties since the 1980s. Benevolence Months: April, August, December Clemson Child Development Center Clemson Child Development Center was created in 1968 by members of our Fellowship and has operated with support from our congregation and others in the community. The Center offers affordable, quality child care and pre-school education and fosters learning and development in an environment that appreciates diversity. Emphasis is also given to programs that strengthen the home environment, enabling families to provide the optimal development of their preschool children. Benevolence Months: January, May, September Service Volunteer Opportunities Habitat For Humanity UUFC participated in it's first "reboot" build on Saturday, June 23, 2022. Members helped start building a deck on a new home in the Liberty area. ​ Building skills are not required to participate. If you are handy with a hammer and power tools, there will be tasks for you. If a paint brush or a shovel is more your speed, we can use your help. To join in, please contact Gordon Crain. ​ Our Daily Rest Shelter Volunteers provide a bi-monthly Monday evening meal for the 35 homeless people at Our Daily Rest Shelter in Seneca. ​ To participate contact ourdailyrest@uufc.org Community Action

Annual Giving (Pledges) Fair Share Giving Guide Planned Giving Stewardship To be a steward of something means to conserve it; to give it attention and care, to cherish it, to be its guardian, to protect and sustain it and to keep it safe. As applied to our fellowship, financial support expresses all of these aspects of stewardship because it allows the management and planning that creates everything that we find here - from children’s education to our liberal religious experience; from outreach and the maintenance of our facilities - to our music on Sunday mornings. ​ Stewardship does not happen by accident. It depends on the acknowledgement that a personal relationship with the UUFC is important to each of us and that we have a personal commitment to protect it and preserve the values that make it important. ​ For many, the act of giving is itself a spiritual practice. It can be a transformative experience to give back of our financial resources to this congregation that has given us so much, to put our money where our hearts are, to support our values and our mission. It is only through our shared generosity and giving that we are able to create the vibrant, joyful, dedicated, beloved community that we celebrate here at UUFC. ​ We are a generous congregation. Through our generous giving we support the mission and vision of UUFC. We give what we can with joy and enthusiasm because we are UUFC and we know that we matter and that we make a difference within and beyond our walls. Annual Giving DONATE Why We Pledge UUFC is a totally self-supporting congregation, which means that every aspect of our religious life together is financially supported by us – the members and friends of UUFC. As we work together to fulfill our mission, it is important to gather the necessary funds to pay for the programs and work of the church, including worship and music, children’s and adult religious education, pastoral care, our social justice projects, and new ministries. The UUFC also needs to cover the salaries of the ministers and staff and for the operation and maintenance of our facilities. ​ All members and regularly attending friends are asked to make a financial pledge to UUFC in accordance with their resources and circumstances. A pledge is simply an estimate of what each person or family will give over the coming year. No matter what each is able to give, it is certain that all pledges, of whatever amount, are needed. ​ Every pledge is welcome and appreciated. Imagine what your own act of generous giving will do toward our shared mission! It takes every one of us to support the mission of UUFC and our beloved community. Fair Share Giving Guide ​ What Is A Pledge? A pledge is a promise to donate a certain amount of money to UUFC during its fiscal year, which runs from January 1 through December 31 of any given year. All pledges go into the UUFC’s Operating Fund and are disbursed in accordance with the approved budget for that year. Make Your Pledge! ​ Simply complete and return a pledge form, available in the annual October Canvass Letter, print the online form, or contact the UUFC Office at admin@uufc.org for further assistance. ​ Return your completed and signed pledge form to a member of the Stewardship Team, Financial Council or Board of Trustee, drop it in the Sunday collection basket, or mail it to: ​ Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Clemson Attn: Stewardship Team 230 Pendleton Road Clemson, SC 29631 ​ What Can We Do With Your Contribution? ​ Sustain Our Community Maintain & Sustain our Faclilities ​ Encourage Intellectual & Spiritual Growth Support Our Music & Arts Programs ​ Reach Out to Members in Need Sponsor Events that Open Minds & Hearts ​ Expand Our Outreach & Social Justice Efforts Welcome Our Diverse Community Into Our Fellowship Start Your Pledge Here Fair Share Giving Guide How Much Should I Pledge? ​ Consider what UUFC means to you and its importance in the larger world. Then choose the pledge amount that feels both right and generous. Keep in mind that with each year expenses rise with inflation and increases in your contribution are welcome. The Fair-Share Guide, a tool provided by the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and adapted for UUFC. It suggests three levels of giving, in relation to annual income. In general, we ask that you seriously consider an annual pledge of 5% of your annual household income. We understand that we all have varied circumstances. If 5% is simply not possible, please contribute an amount that is significant for you, representing your commitment to UUFC, to your personal growth, and to relationships within the community. Annua Giving Fair Share Planned Giving Planned Giving Planned giving is an important way to be stewards of our great liberal religious heritage. It is the act of planting the trees to provide shade for future generations. Giving is one of life's great satisfactions, especially when you know that your gifts will improve the lives of others. Your gifts may be made in remembrance of loved ones, or to honor a special occasion or special person. Most gifts received by UUFC are made without restrictions as to how they will be spent. Unrestricted gifts are preferred, and allow UUFC to apply the donation where the support is most needed. However, gifts for special purpose are also welcomed. ​ Ways To Give: ​ ​ Gifts Given During Your Lifetime ​ ​ ​ Bequests Made In Your Will ​ ​ Annuities that provide you lifetime income ​ Designating UUFC as the beneficiary of an insurance policy, retirement, or bank account Request More Information on Planned Giving Frequent Questions ​ What is planned giving? Planned giving is a thoughtful way of making a charitable donation that helps the church and also helps the donor. It usually is done with long-term benefits in mind. Why should I make a gift to UUFC? People have different reasons for making gifts – to honor a loved one, to express appreciation, or to enable new opportunities. People who make gifts to UUFC appreciate what this community has meant to them, and want to see our liberal religion endure and thrive. How can I be sure that my gift will be wisely used? In most cases, donors have worked hard for what they have and want to leave a legacy. They give willingly, but want to know that their gifts will have a lasting impact. Our Board takes such gifts very seriously for the long-term good of UUFC, and understands that by using these gifts wisely for long-term purposes, we encourage generosity and promote a culture of giving that will sustain us for the future. Will my gifts be publicly recognized? Public recognition is currently given for donors who have passed and left a bequest to the UUFC. However, we are happy to reflect the donor’s wish for either recognition or anonymity. What are my options for giving? There are many ways to make planned gifts, ranging from simply writing a check to setting up a special trust. The best choice depends on your goals. You may wish to consult with your legal and financial advisers on the tax consequences of various forms of giving, such as transferring appreciated property or naming UUFC as the beneficiary of a retirement account or insurance policy. Is planned giving only for wealthy people with complex estates? No. Small gifts are as welcome as large ones. We have received very generous gifts from people of modest means. All gifts are a statement of belief in our principles, and are helpful, appreciated and respected. Do I need an estate planning attorney? For significant giving, you certainly need an estate plan. An estate plan can be a will or a trust, simple or complex. It ensures that your assets will benefit those you care about most. Because there can be serious financial consequences, and because we cannot provide legal advice, we strongly recommend that you consult a responsible professional. Can I donate real estate or property? Yes. However, for gifts or bequests other than cash or publicly traded securities, your proposed gift needs to be approved by the Board of Trustees. UUFC reserves the right to decline donations that it judges to be unsuitable. Can I specify how my gift is used? Yes, but ... UUFC welcomes gifts earmarked for special purposes, if that purpose is aligned with the general purposes of the church. Such gifts are said to be restricted. Since unrestricted gifts provide us with greater flexibility, they are preferred. But we will gratefully accept restricted gifts that support our mission. Do gifts and bequests offset the need for pledging? No. In general, annual operating expenses are expected to be paid for through pledge fulfillment and other annual income, such as the proceeds from fundraisers. They are the foundation for keeping the doors open day in and out, year-long.

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