Hello UTUUC Friends! Our goal as the Board of Trustees is to maintain connection with you–especially during this time of physical distancing. To that end, we will continue our "Reflecting with the Board" sessions this upcoming Sunday, March 14, 2021 at 1pm and Monday, March 15, 2021 at 7pm. The Zoom link for both is here: Zoom ID: 921 8222 1879   These sessions are a time for us to listen to you–we want to hear how you are, as well as your ideas, suggestions, and concerns. Here are a few things we would like you to know:

The Community Transformation Team is beginning to think through the many options and obstacles to reopening our buildings. There are many, many issues to consider and they would like as much feedback and input from the Congregation as possible. To that end, please join us to share your thoughts on the how and when we should return in person to Unity Temple and to our Community Center. Nile Wendorf, UTUUC Finance & Investment Team, presented a draft of the Policy on the Use of Designated Reserves for the Board’s review. The purpose of the Reserves Policy is to ensure the stability of the mission, programs, employment, and ongoing operations at UTUUC. The F & I team is critically thinking on how best this policy should be written and implemented by the Board. Much appreciation for the hard work of the Finance & Investment Committee!

Amanda Kaleta-Kott, who serves on both your Board and the Personnel Committee, presented the Board with an update from the extremely busy Personnel Committee. Of particular note, the Board approved Melissa Adams as the newest committee member and supported the expansion of this committee's job description “to help the Congregation to be a good employer” and to support “the staff team’s health, effectiveness, and culture.” The Committee members are working on a revamp of our Employee Handbook and the writing of staff job descriptions among many other tasks. Much appreciation for the hard work of the Personnel Committee! Julie Willoughby, Board VP, updated the Board on the Interim Structure of the newly formed Executive Team. The team continues to work with Rev. David Pyle for support and guidance on a collaborative leadership framework and an E-Team charter. E-Team members all voiced enthusiasm for the progress they are making.

Our Community Connections team continues to create activities to keep us connected through this time away from our buildings. Volunteers are needed for various projects. Volunteers do not need to attend every steering meeting. Ideas are welcome! Please spread the word. We need each other now, more than ever. Let's create some light and laughter together! Contact connections@unitytemple.org.

A reminder that UTUUC has an Abundance Fund created to provide support to members and friends of UTUUC who are experiencing financial difficulty. A member or friend of the congregation may notify a member of the Executive Team of UTUUC (eteam@unitytemple.org), a Pastoral Associate (pastoralassociates@unitytemple.org), or a member of the Caring Team (caring@unitytemple.org) of their need for emergency financial assistance.

We look forward to reflecting with you all.    Together in our hearts, Your UTUUC Board of Trustees

Ed McDevitt, President Julie Willoughby, Vice President Erik Wise, Secretary (ex-officio Secretary) Kimberly Brumirski Aisha Ellis Amanda Kaleta-Kott Stephanie Kiesling Stephen Lee Alice Ocrey Rich Pokorny