The UUCGL and the UUA

www.uua.org

   The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations (UUA) was formed in 1961 through the consolidation of the Universalist Church of America organized in 1793, and the American Unitarian Association organized in 1825. Today the UUA is a faith community of more than 1,000 congregations that support each other and bring to the world a vision of religious freedom, tolerance and social justice. 

The UUA supports the ongoing vision, mission and ministry of member congregations. Annually, the UUA holds a meeting of the entire Association, called General Assembly, where delegates representing their congregations vote on Association issues. Picture: UUA offices location: 25 Beacon St., Boston, MA

How does the UUA assist UU congregations?

Helping congregations grow and thrive

• Works with congregations to find qualified religious professionals and assist with leadership transitions.
• Develops lifespan religious education curricula and continuing education programs for religious educators.
• Provides resources for lay leaders, such as the InterConnections website and newsletter.
• Skinner House Books publishes meditation manuals and other titles of interest to UUs.
• Congregation members receive the UU WORLD magazine.
• The UUA Bookstore offers books, pamphlets, RE curricula, audio, visual and other materials.
• Sponsors more than 200 electronic mailing lists and a resource-rich website.
• UUA youth, young adult, and campus programs help congregations attract younger members.
• Offers resources and support for congregations as they become anti-racist, anti-oppressive, multicultural, and welcoming.
• Makes available fundraising consultation, building grant and loan programs, and size-specific workshops on planning for growth.
• With Umbrella Giving, the UUA helps individuals plan gifts to the UU institutions of their choice.
• Helps start new congregations and work with district and local leaders to provide resources as they grow. The UUA also supports new congregations growing out of local energy.
• Provides "Uncommon Denomination" hospitality, belonging and media resources on our website.

Giving public voice to our values and principles

• Helps congregations take action on their values by providing "how-to" resources on advocacy, organizing, public policy issues and the theological motivations for our justice work.
• Keeps the national media informed about UU values and activities, and our Association's leaders speak out on current issues.
• The UUA's Washington Office for Advocacy implements General Assembly social justice decisions, making our views known to the US Congress and Administration.
• Strengthens our voice in coalition with other organizations.
• Ensures that Association funds are in socially responsible investments, and provides information on how congregations and individuals can be socially responsible investors.
• Offers endowment management services to congregations.
• Beacon Press offers the public books that are consonant with and promote Unitarian Universalist principles.