We, the Board of Unity Center of Spiritual Growth, want to give you an update on our merger.

As you have heard, the combined board from our individual congregations recently elected new provisional officers. They are:

Donna Hodge, President

Cheryl Kirby, Vice President

Roye Ely, Secretary

Tami Savage, Treasurer

Board Service

We have planned to hold a community vote on a slate of new trustees in September. Ideally, we would like to have two more board members. Therefore, we are accepting applications from anyone choosing to serve in this capacity. If you are interested, see Jerilyn for an application. If you want to feel that you are an integral part of the UCSG family, this is an excellent way to learn all about how our Center operates. It is also an opportunity to build relationships and to spend time with wonderful, committed people. Now that the major work required to complete the merger is behind us, the time commitment for board members will be much more manageable. So, please consider prayerfully whether it is time for you to serve in this way.

Merger Status

We are editing the Bylaws to reflect the integration of both churches. When completed, we can apply to the Secretary of State for an official name change and a new Employer Identification Number (EIN). Then, we will work to officially combine the funds from both congregations. Hopefully, monthly giving will stabilize sufficiently to cover the Center’s operating expenses. For now, we are making up any shortages by dividing the deficit and withdrawing equal amounts from the accounts of the Center of Spiritual Growth and Unity Spiritual Center of North Idaho. We have retained the services of an attorney well versed in such matters and she is guiding us in the process of doing this correctly.

Planned Regular Offerings

As you know, summer can be a time of lower attendance. Consequently, the Board asks respectfully that you consider setting up an automatic giving program (aka Planned Regular Offerings) so that our budget does not suffer while you enjoy your summer activities. You can pick up a PRO form in the office or ask one of the board members and we will assist you.

Summer Happenings

Just because the weather is warming, it does not mean that there is nothing going on here. Check our website UnityCenter.org for details about opportunities for getting involved. There are groups and activities to keep you growing and connected to our community throughout the summer. On that note, please take time to check out our community garden. We have thirteen committed gardeners who are creating a paradise of organic produce and flowers.

Community Cookout

Also, be sure and mark your calendar for our first annual Community Cookout. It takes place on Saturday, June 25 from 11am-3pm. This is a free public event so bring a friend. We also ask you to consider contacting someone you know who has not attended in a while. Loren Walz is our master griller, and he will be preparing hamburgers, veggie burgers, and hotdogs at the cookout. If you plan to come, you can help round out the meal by bringing a potluck side dish or dessert. We will see you there.

We Welcome Your Feedback

We are always interested in your feedback and comments. Please reach out to any of us if you want to share your concerns, compliments, or suggestions.

Many blessings,

On behalf of your Unity Center of Spiritual Growth Board of Trustees

Donna Hodge, Cheryl Kirby, Roye Ely, Tami Savage, Patricia (Trish) DuToit, and Ginny Taft