Your Generosity Matters
Empowering Our Community Through Stewardship
Join us in making a lasting impact. At First Congregational UCC, we know that generosity comes in many forms. By investing our time, talents, and treasure in the life of our church, we bring the message of God’s love and compassion to ourselves and the world. Your support helps us continue our mission, expand our reach within the community, and express our gratitude to God by sharing our gifts with others.
The Importance of Stewardship
Here’s a video from last fall featuring Howard Mezile, our now-Moderator, sharing his insights on the importance of stewardship during the beginning of last year’s stewardship season. His words offer a thoughtful perspective on how our collective generosity sustains and strengthens our church community.
Contact Us
Your generous donations help us to continue our vital work within the church and the wider community. Every gift, no matter the size, contributes to our ongoing efforts to spread love, support, and faith. Click below to contact the collector if you have any questions, and thank you for your generosity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about stewardship giving at First Congregational UCC Sarasota.
What is stewardship giving?
Stewardship giving involves donating time, talents, and financial resources to support our church’s mission, ministries, and the upkeep of our facilities, as well as to cover essential expenses that keep our church running smoothly.
How can I make a donation?
You can make a donation online through our website, by mail, or in person during our worship services.
Are my donations tax-deductible?
Yes, all donations to First Congregational UCC Sarasota are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
This is How Your Generous Contribution Matters
What is the impact of my giving?
Your generous contributions help us to continue our mission, support community programs, maintain our church facilities, and cover essential expenses.
How is my donation used?
Your donation supports the various ministries and operational needs of our church, including community outreach, worship services, and maintenance of our facilities.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information about stewardship giving, please reach out to our church office at (941) 953-7044 or use the contact form.
Can I donate non-monetary items?
Yes, we accept donations of goods (subject to the church’s needs) and services. Please contact our office for more information on how to contribute in this way.
Can I set up recurring donations?
Yes, you can set up recurring donations through our online giving platform for your convenience.
Can I volunteer my time instead of giving money?
Absolutely! We welcome volunteers to support our various programs and events. Please contact our office to learn about current volunteer opportunities.
This is What You Need to Know About Online Giving
First Congregational United Church of Christ of Sarasota uses Vanco Payment Solutions Inc. to process credit card, debit card, and direct withdrawal donations and payments to expedite and manage your gifts. Vanco handles all of the security necessary for processing the transaction and transferring the money directly into the Church’s savings account.
What is Vanco?
Vanco Payment Solutions Inc. is an online service for churches and non-profits to accept payments/donations. It is a widely used and safe way for people to send money on the internet.
Do I need a Vanco account to donate?
No – You can simply enter your payment information on Vanco’s secure website and the donation will be sent as a one-time gift to the Church.
How does the church get the money I send?
After you complete the payment information steps, the funds are immediately deposited in the Church’s bank savings account. Both you and the Collector will receive email confirmation of the gift.
Are there any fees or costs to give online?
The full amount you choose to donate goes to First Congregational UCC and is considered a tax-deductible gift, and the Church will pay a small fee. However, if you choose to assist the Church in paying this fee,please click the “Offset fee” button and a fee of 2 % will be added to your gift.
Is my information safe and confidential?
Absolutely! Online giving is actually less risky than handwritten checks. An online transaction cannot be lost, stolen or destroyed. Vanco automatically encrypts your confidential information. When you give through Vanco, the Church does NOT see private information like your credit/debit card or bank account number.
How is my contribution documented?
You will receive an email confirming and documenting the gift from Vanco. The Collector will receive an email notice of the deposit and of the amount and purpose of your gift. The Collector will use your information to record your gift for Church records. If you are a regular giver, your online giving will also be added to your year-end contribution statement.
Can I designate how my donation is used?
Yes. If your gift is for a special purpose or Memorial Gift, please contact the Collector using the form on this page to designate how your gift is to be designated.
Why do you ask me for my address and other information?
The information is needed by Vanco to confirm that your debit/credit card or bank account actually belongs to you. Some of the information is needed by the Church to properly credit you for the donation.
Can I use a credit card to give online?
Yes. When using the online giving system through Vanco, you are asked to enter your credit/debit card information.
What if I want to give to the Church, but still don’t want to give online?
You can always mail a check to the Church, designating the purpose on the “memo” line or by enclosing a note. The church can also arrange for regular Electronic Fund Transfers from your checking or savings account. Please contact the Church or the Collector for the form to be completed.
What Our Congregation Says
“I love the idea that our finances are able to help so many people, and when you do this collectively, you can do so much more.”
“I ask that each of you think about what this church means to you and look for ways you can be good stewards by giving of your time, talent and treasure.”
“My husband and I felt that pledging our money and giving to special offerings through the church was the best way to show gratitude for all the ways we’ve been blessed.”
“We are blessed to support this church, our church, the First Congregational United Church of Christ, Sarasota.”
Support Our Mission
Your generosity helps us continue our vital work in the community. Whether it’s through a donation or volunteering your time, your support makes a difference. Join us in our stewardship efforts and help us create a lasting impact.