“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”
— Mahatma Gandhi

Social Action at First Parish flows from our individual responses to needs in the world. We do this within the supportive environment of our broader church community and the mission of First Parish, “…to act on our values to serve the larger community and create a more just and loving world.”

The Social Action Committee serves as a clearinghouse for volunteers to work together on projects that make a meaningful difference in the lives of people and places in need.

A brief listing of our current projects, funds and awards and how you can become involved follows. For more complete descriptions, click on the links on the left. To reach the SAC coordinator for any project, contact the church office.

International Projects

Amnesty International — Join in our annual letter writing campaign to advance human rights around the world.

Zambian project — Educate and support AIDS orphans in Zambia. Travel to Zambia in the summer for hands-on work.

Empower Dalit Women of Nepal (EDWON) — Fund self-help and microloan groups for women of the lowest castes in rural Nepal.

Larger Community and National Projects

UU Urban Ministry, Roxbury — Tutor, mentor and provide weekend enrichment experiences for children in the Stand High, Stand United program; support the Renewal House, a shelter for women and their children.

The Lincoln Food Project — Assist with planting in spring time and learn about organic, sustainable agriculture and the goals of the Food Project.

Breaking Barriers, Waltham — Learn and take part in English as a Second Language tutoring with Latina women and their families.

Local Projects

Lexington Food Pantry — Donate foods, paper product, personal care products, Stop & Shop gift cards, or make cash donations. Help deliver donations to our local food pantry.

Lexington Interfaith Garden — Volunteer to work in the garden, growing and harvesting fresh produce for people in need. Learn about organic, sustainable agriculture.

Funds, Grants, and Awards

Giving Away the Plate — Give generously to our once monthly plate collection and help support a variety of local charities. Bring your social concerns and volunteer involvements to our attention by proposing a deserving recipient.

Guest at Your Table — During the winter holiday season, keep the less fortunate in mind and support the work of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) by depositing money into your donation box as part of each family meal.

Good Samaritan Fund — Help provide short-term assistance to needy individuals in the church or wider community by donating to this fund created by Eva and Bruce Gordon.

John and Ruth Beebe Award — Nominate a congregant who has shown an exceptional dedication to Social Action at First Parish.

Social Action Grants — Initiate an event or project at First Parish to meet a social or environmental need you’re passionate about.