The UUMC community believes in helping its neighbors. Fulfilling a longstanding Methodist commitment to mission and social justice, UUMC members put their beliefs into action by serving less fortunate individuals in a variety of ways. For example:

“I was hungry and you gave me food”: UUMC’s Open Doors Ministry serves more than 300 men, women & children breakfast and lunch every Saturday.

“I was a stranger and you welcomed me”: As part of the Interfaith Hospitality Network, UUMC provides housing to families with children who are temporarily without a place to stay.

“I was naked and you clothed me”: The Fig Leaf Store, operated on UUMC’s fourth floor, gathers donated clothing and housewares and distributes them to those in need.

“I was sick and you took care of me”: Volunteers with Interfaith Care Alliance assist people with AIDS or other life-threatening illnesses.

“I was in prison and you visited me”: Loveworks mentors provide support to children of incarcerated parents and their families.

For more information about how you can help, click here to download a PDF.

Micah 6

UUMC is a member of Micah 6, a group of Austin churches that operate a food bank, recycling bin and other programs. Learn more about Micah 6 Austin.

Zavala Elementary

Zavala Elementary is an inner city, east Austin school. In the mid-1990s, UUMC members formed the Zavala Circle of Friends, which now includes businesses and civic organizations. The results: improved testing scores, increased attendance rates and awards for achievement.

Volunteer opportunities include in-school or after-school tutoring, mentoring, helping with Zavala’s after school enrichment program, assisting teachers as field trip chaperones, guest speakers, improving the school (adopt-a-hallway, landscaping, painting, special projects), and assisting in the library, office, computer lab, or special events such as the science fair or Reading Rally Day. For more details, email Sandy Smith at sandysmithaustx@gmail.com or call 512-627-4606.

No matter what your interests are or how much time you have available, Zavala can match you with a program or one-time event that enhances student learning. Click here for more detailed information.

Please click here to download a PDF for more information about how you can volunteer to help at Zavala.