Cascadia Growth Fund for Unitarian Universalism is an independent registered non-profit that funds Unitarian Universalist Congregations in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, British Columbia and Alaska – an area once known as the Pacific Northwest District of the UUA.
These UU congregations share a rich history of Unitarian Universalism; a sensibility arising from the geographic environment we live in; and a culture informed by many neighbors including
- Canadian, American, and Native/First Nations
- Coastal communities and inland communities
Cascadia Growth Fund acknowledges the reality of systemic racism and the discomfort that accompanies its undoing. As a Board, we commit ourselves to this challenge in our relations, our decision making, and the initiatives we undertake.
Cascadia Growth Fund is managed by a volunteer Board consisting of lay leaders and UU ministers, and is supported by a part time Administrator.
The Pacific Northwest UU Growth Foundation (PNUUGF) and Chalice Lighters were created by the Board of the Pacific Northwest District of the Unitarian Universalist Association (PNWD) in 1997 at the recommendation of Rod Stewart, District Executive.
Managed by an independent board, the PNUUGF helped congregations with building projects. Overseen by the PNWD Board, Chalice Lighters funded smaller projects and was replicated across the continent. The two entities operated separately for over two decades.
Though the Canadian Unitarian Council parted ways with the Unitarian Universalist Association in 2002 and British Columbia was no longer part of the PNWD, the PNUUGF continued to serve the province. In 2020 the PNUUGF board renewed its commitment to the geographic region of the original district, changed its name to ‘Cascadia Growth Fund for Unitarian Universalism’ and expanded its range of funding.
In 2022, facing dissolution resulting from changes by the national association, the PNWD board transferred its Chalice Lighters program to Cascadia. The Board also passed its remaining assets to Cascadia, for congregations in need.
Today, Cascadia Growth Fund for Unitarian Universalism is run by a volunteer Board of lay and minister leaders, and supported by marvelous volunteers and part time staff.