United Thank Offering (UTO)

Ms. Robin Johnson, Diocesan coordinator

The Mission of the United Thank Offering is to expand the circle of thankful people. To achieve this mission, we encourage daily prayers, offerings and awareness of the abundance of God's blessings. In 2007, UTO awarded 104 grants for a total of $2,439,342.46.

Suggested dates for Parish Ingatherings: The Fall Ingathering can be the Sunday closest to all Saints Day and the Spring Ingathering can be the Sunday following Ascension. Ingatherings are sent to the UTO Diocesan Coordinator, Robin Johnson, at 44 Boutelle Avenue, Waterville 40901. The Diocesan Coordinator records the amount received from each congregation, then sends the money on to the National Office.

The United Thank Offering Granting Cycle for the Diocese of Maine: Each year the UTO granting process begins in mid-October when the applications are dispersed to all dioceses from the National UTO board. The applications can be obtained from the diocesan office and a current one must be obtained each year. The deadline for the application to be received by the diocese of Maine is the Friday after Thanksgiving, so that the applications can be processed and screened. Only two applications can be sent from the diocese to the national UTO office and must reach them by January 31. Because the granting season is so short, and because it is not always possible to enlist the help of contractors on short notice, it is very important that parishes or related organizations with designs on obtaining a UTO grant plan ahead so that appraisals, estimates and budgetary figures be obtained well in advance. Any help or guidance necessary can be obtained by notifying your diocesan coordinator. She may not have the answers you need, but will know where to go and how to find out the answers to your questions.