2026-27 Annual Fund Campaign

How much does it cost to operate Cedar Lane? How much do we need to raise?

Cedar Lane’s annual budget is about $1.5 million, with pledges and sustaining gifts contributing about 55%.  With those funds we employ 21 staff members (both full and part time); operate and maintain our buildings and grounds; and offer a variety of programs. You can access a copy of the annual operating budget for the current year here.

Our goal for Cedar Lane’s Annual Fund Campaign is to raise $1 million, a bit more than a 5% increase from the previous year.

When do I make a pledge?

We ask that everyone make a pledge before the end of the Annual Fund Campaign on March 22, 2026.  Staff and the Board of Directors are developing the next year’s budget in March and April, and an accurate understanding of Cedar Lane’s anticipated income will help us to plan effectively.  

If not all pledges are received by the end of the campaign, we may be required to prioritize our expenses for the coming year and make some difficult decisions.  

At the same time, if we reach – or exceed – our goal by the end of the campaign, Cedar Lane will be able to consider new opportunities.  

How do I make a pledge?  How do I give money to fulfill that pledge?  

To make a pledge is to tell Cedar Lane of your intentions to financially support the congregation.  The second step is to set up your gift, frequently a recurring gift from a credit card or bank account.  

Here’s the full menu of options for giving to Cedar Lane:

• Secure Online Gifts with a Credit or Debit Card, or from your Bank Account
  You can use your credit or debit card, or bank account to make a one-time payment or to set up a recurring payment. Cedar Lane particularly values recurring payments.  All online payment processors charge a minimal fee. Like many organizations, Cedar Lane provides you with the option to cover these fees.If you require assistance making a gift, please reach out to Clare Jacocks (accounting@cedarlane.org / 301-493-8300 x310).

• Bank Bill Pay
  You can request that your bank send a check to Cedar Lane, either as a one-time payment or as a recurring payment. You’ll need to set it up using your bank’s online bill pay feature.

• Check
  You may mail a check or drop one in our Sunday plate. Please ensure your name is on the check and write “pledge” in the memo line.  On Sunday morning, checks without “pledge” indicated are counted as part of the collection plate. Checks can be sent to the office at: Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Attn: Clare Jacocks, 9601 Cedar Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814 

• IRA Qualified Charitable Distribution
  Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) offer a way for individuals aged 70-1/2 or older to potentially reduce their income taxes by making charitable donations directly from their IRA accounts. You can find more information and answers to common questions about QCDs on the IRS site here. Please contact your financial institution for specific details and instructions.

• Stock or Mutual Fund Donation
  You may also fulfill your pledge through a transfer of stock or mutual funds. Please reach out to Clare Jacocks (accounting@cedarlane.org / 301-493-8300 ext. 310) for an instruction sheet that you can provide to your broker.
• Donor Advised Fund or Recommended Grant
  Consult with your financial advisor or tax professional regarding this option. While some guidance may suggest that donor advised funds cannot be used to fulfill pledges, it’s essential to note that this restriction typically applies only to legally binding pledges. Pledges made to Cedar Lane during the Annual Fund Campaign are NOT legally binding, allowing for the possibility of using this option to give.

What about other forms of support, such as donations of money, items, or time?

While contributions of all kinds are deeply valued, they do not substitute for pledges and recurring gifts. Gifts to the Sunday morning offering plate or at the annual auction are distinct.  Pledges and sustaining gifts are indispensable for the congregation’s long-term planning and sustainability. (Please note: if you intend to make a pledge payment on Sunday morning, kindly indicate “pledge payment” in the memo.)

Volunteers are the lifeblood of Cedar Lane, generously offering their time and talent. However, financial support is equally crucial for funding our diverse programs and meeting our financial obligations.

Can I designate my gifts to support a specific program instead of the general operating fund?

Pledging and giving to the operating fund ensures that Cedar Lane has the resources needed to sustain all of its programs, ministries, and operational expenses. While supporting specific programs or ministries is valuable, contributing to the operating fund allows Cedar Lane to cover essential costs such as staff salaries, utilities, maintenance, and other overhead expenses. This broader support ensures the overall health and sustainability of Cedar Lane.

However, if you are moved to make a designated gift, we kindly ask you to reach out to Executive Director Jen Morley at jmorley@cedarlane.org or call 301-493-8300 ext. 209 before making your gift.

What if I am unable to fulfill my pledge?

Financial difficulties should never prevent your involvement in Cedar Lane. In times of both abundance and challenge, we stand united as a community. If you find yourself unable to fulfill all or part of your pledge, please reach out to our Executive Director, Jen Morley (jmorley@cedarlane.org / 301-493-8300 ext. 209), or one of our ministers.

Is my pledge tax deductible?

Since Cedar Lane is a 501(c)(3) non-profit religious organization, your contributions are tax deductible. Our office will send end-of-the-year statements via email around January 31, which you can use for tax purposes.

I still have questions, who can answer them?

Please don’t hesitate to contact us! You can reach out to Jen Morley, our Executive Director, at (jmorley@cedarlane.org / 301-493-8300 ext. 209).