Dear Friends,
Recently, I had the privilege of staring into the eyes of a newborn. We locked gazes and communicated on a soul level. She with wide-eyed innocence, I with a contemplative heart. This transformative Advent conversation reminded me of the power of one–one Child that transformed the world with comfort, joy, and forgiveness.
For many reasons, this year has been a long haul. Because of your love and support of outdoor ministry, Cedar Valley, Daycholah Center, and Moon Beach are still here. Despite the pandemic and personnel transitions, we are fully committed to building back momentum and providing welcoming and safe places for all of God’s children.
The financial needs to make this happen have not gone away–if anything they are magnified. Inflation is real. We awarded record numbers of scholarships in 2021 with a vision that finances were not to be a barrier to participation.
Last year, a generous couple invested in the transformative nature of outdoor ministry and offered their legacy gift immediately. Their significant gift inspired another generous donor to do the same. Through the matching gift campaign, they inspired unprecedented transformative giving to UCCI. We are looking for more people who want to see their investments pay off today! You could be that person; you might know that person!
Above all, UCCI needs your participation, your volunteering, your prayers, and your support. Giving can be as transformative for the giver as the receiver! Your one gift can inspire another, and another . . . and soon the community is transformed!
God is at the center of our ministry and mission. When I ask God to be at the center of our fundraising, I trust that God will see us through. I trust this message will find the hearts of many who will help fund our programs. I trust that this call will find someone who wishes to leave a legacy.
Before year-end, please make a donation that will help outdoor ministry transform lives next year, the year after that, and for generations to come. You will touch lives in ways you never thought possible!
With much love, gratitude, and wishes for a blessed New Year,
Glenn Svetnicka
Executive Director
