I am so pleased to see and feel the energy and sense of community forming at Unity Center of Des Moines. Here’s a quick update of what’s been happening and, as always, I encourage you to reach out to me or any of the board members with questions or input.
· The Spiritual Council continues working on rainbow efforts to meet soul needs of Unity Center including mission and vision. More updates to come.
· The Corn efforts, which foster action with the goal of meeting the operational needs of Unity Center, has had much going on in the form of short, Pop-Corn meetings:
o Rental Popcorn meeting on 7/21 facilitated by Paul Kellogg, covered the topic of how we can get our space at Unity utilized! Lots of good ideas were generated, such as how we may be able to use the Tower Room. Paul has been putting together a plan to execute upon. More to come!
o Basement Popcorn meeting on 7/26 facilitated by Julie Russell, covered the flooding that occurred in the basement and the possibility of using a $5000 donation toward a more serious upgrade. As an outcome of that meeting we received an additional $5000 donation and steps were taken to evaluate safety concerns (re mold & asbestos). The good news is that everything is proving to be in good shape! After confirming with the donor, $5000 was put into the general fund to bridge the gap and meet operational obligations and the remaining $5000 was put in savings while we plan and determine best approach for the basement. In the meantime the carpet has been cleaned throughout Unity. More to come!
o Abundance Popcorn meeting on 8/4 facilitated by Cathleen Simpson, covered the reality of our financial situation both now and in the near future. Donations continue to be primary source of funding while other sources (classes, rentals) have remained steady over the past 4 years. Expenses have been pared back and income isn’t covering expenses. Debt has increased to $16,000.
Discussion returned to Unity principles and that there is always enough if we are clear on what it is we value & desire to create in ourselves and our community and to hold that intention in mind and heart. Agreement was reached to meet again and clarify this in more detail. Mavis Curry and Susan Kellogg will lead the discussion in a “Pizza and Possibilities Party” on 8/29.