United Thank Offering application process open for 2011 grants
Episcopal News Service. October 25, 2010 [102510-06]
The application process for the 2011 United Thank Offering grants is now open and for the first time it is available online, according to a press release from the Episcopal Church's Office of Public Affairs.
"This is the first year that United Thank Offering will operate an internet grant application process," explained Claudia Conner, UTO coordinator, in the release. "The purpose is to convert the application process from a 1950s model to 2010 technology. Online availability can eliminate or greatly reduce mailing and shipping costs, which sometimes were quite steep. It will also expedite the UTO board's application review process."
The United Thank Offering grants are awarded for projects that address human needs and help alleviate poverty, both domestically and internationally within Anglican provinces, dioceses, and companion dioceses.
Applications are due Jan. 31, 2011. Funds will be available starting June 2011 for a one-year grant period. Complete instructions, application form, and additional information are available here.
The UTO awarded more than $2.16 million in grants for 2010 to assist the mission and ministry of the Episcopal Church and the Anglican Communion.
In outlining the application process, Conner noted that the following:
- one application may be submitted by each diocese of the Episcopal Church, with diocesan bishop approval;
- one application may be submitted by a diocese of the U.S. domestic Episcopal Church on behalf of an overseas companion diocese, with approval by both diocesan bishops;
- one application may be submitted by invited provinces of the Anglican Communion, with approval by the archbishop, primate or provincial secretary and, if applicable, the diocesan bishop.
For more information e-mail utoapps@episcopalchurch.org or call the UTO Office at 800-334-7626.
The United Offering was established at the General Convention of 1889 and became the United Thank Offering in 1919. In 1970, the Executive Council of the Episcopal Church gave its permission for the offering to be allocated on an annual basis and the UTO grant committee was formed.