The Membership Committee helps to welcome and integrate newcomers into the life of our Society. Honoring both the UU Principle of the “inherent worth and dignity of each person” and our commitment as a “welcoming congregation” to the GLBT community, we welcome all to join us in the Good News of Unitarian Universalism. The committee is also responsible for helping to instruct newcomers in the Unitarian Universalist faith and inviting them to membership in our society.

COMMITTEE DESCRIPTION: MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE

GROUP: CONGREGATIONAL AFFAIRS

CHARGE: To welcome and integrate newcomers and prospective members into First UU.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Develop and maintain a system for welcoming newcomers, acquainting them with Unitarian Universalism and the workings of our congregation.

2. Provide opportunities to learn about membership benefits and responsibilities. For example, monthly Newcomers Orientations and weekly Newcomers Table.

3. Implement the “Welcoming Congregation” concept for the GLBT community.

4. Recruit and organize volunteers for Welcoming Crew to telephone and connect with newcomers. Provide minister and Vice-President with newcomer updates.

5. Promote the wearing of nametags by all members, newcomers and visitors.

6. Create or purchase appropriate information brochures. Obtain from other committees information brochures on YRE, ARE, Canvas and others as needed.

7. Prepare information packets for Newcomers/Prospective Members that includes “Welcome to First UU” brochure, UU Beliefs, Canvas, and YRE/ ARE information.

8. Prepare a New Member packet for those signing the membership book that includes: Bio sheet, Interests & Skills sheet, Pledge card and other information deemed useful.

9. Plan and conduct membership book group signings in consultation with minister, i.e. Membership Sundays. Plan individual signings when needed.

10. Assist the Adult RE Committee and minister in presenting the New UU course.

11. Plan, organize and update Photo Directory when needed.

12. Pass on the names of New Members to the Canvas Committee chair.

13. Advise the chair of the Finance Committee in January of budget needs for the next fiscal year.

14. Provide the church office with copies of brochures/information packets and copies of meeting minutes and reports.

MEMBERS: Six to ten members

TERMS OF OFFICE: Two years

MEETING SCHEDULE: Usually once per month.