How We Work Together
Unitarian Universalism is committed to the worthiness and dignity of each person and this commitment is reflected in our bylaws, our organizational structures, and our mutual accountability. Each UU congregation is self-funded, self-governed and distinct in its operations. Here at USR we do our best to empower our volunteers and leaders, encouraging them through our structures to take on responsibilities and implement their ideas.
USR Leadership
USR is governed by a seven person Board of Trustees elected by the Congregation at the annual meeting. The Board is responsible for the fiscal well-being and longevity of the congregation, as well as the governance structures and mechanisms, like the bylaws. The work of the Board is complemented by the work of the Circle Facilitators, who assist and support our strong lay leadership in developing programs in six different areas of congregational life.
Our staff provides stable long-term leadership in specific areas, working collaboratively with congregants. Ann, our congregational administrator, is the backbone of our operations. Ron, our music director, ensures beautiful and fulfilling music each week. A handful of other part time employees assist on the nursery, with technology, and with setting up our space for events.
Rev. Sarah, our minister, works alongside staff, the Circles Facilitators, and the Board to discern and implement a vision for our community. Ultimately, USR is in the hands of our members who determine its mission, covenant, bylaws, and future.
Our Circles
The work of Unitarian Society of Ridgewood (USR) is divided into 6 Circles, each responsible for varied work but joined by their common, larger, mission-based purpose. The Circles, while defined as separate, work together as few congregational projects are truly discrete. The Circles, their Facilitators, and the Ministerial and Staff leadership work at all times to center the Mission and Covenant of USR and are driven in their decision making by our shared principles and ideals.
Our Staff
WE ARE A SAFE CONGREGATION
USR is a Safe Congregation where practices and procedures serve to ensure all members, friends, adults, children and youth are treated with respect and protected from harassment and abuse.
The Safe Congregation Response Team (SCRT) works to ensure the safety of our congregation. While also tending to the safety of our building and policies around the safety of our adults, the core focus of the work of the SCRT is to ensure the protection and safety of all children who participate at USR. We have robust policies that are reviewed and updated in accordance with best practices for preventing abuse and responding to incidents. READ POLICY