2019 Winner

Unitarian Universalist Service Committee: https://vimeo.com/368561308/86e1d2dc26

What is the Greater Good?

It’s a movement to re-focus on the core values of the Christmas season and engage in social action with the children and youth of the Fellowship by reducing the materialism of the holiday season.

Here’s how:

Add up your typical holiday season expenses:

Entertaining
Food
Gifts
Travel
Trimmings
Divide the total in half
Fund your holiday celebration on 50% and donate the other 50% to the Greater Good.

Why Participate?

People participate for many reasons. Here are a few we have heard:

“I don’t like how Christmas has become a gift grab.”
“My family’s religious traditions are really diverse, so we wanted a tradition that we could all agree on.”
“ My family has everything we need. I’d rather put my holiday money toward something to benefit others.”
“I don’t want to accumulate any more stuff!”
“I don’t like the Santa Claus tradition.”
“What would Jesus do?”
“I love watching my kids get excited about getting to choose who will get the money. Greater Good prompts great conversations about the democratic process.”

FAQ 

Do I have to give half of my holiday spending?
Absolutely not. Give what you can.

What if my family doesn’t want to give up their holiday gifts?
In our experience, when parents clearly explain the purpose of Greater Good, children accept the change. Some families have found it more effective to associate presents with birthdays, rather than the holidays. Talk to a member of the Greater Good action team if you would like help navigating these difficult conversations.

How can I help?

Spread the word! Invite your friends to participate. Even if they don’t have children, people can financially support the program. And be sure to attend the presentation and voting services.

Past Winners

2015 – Riverview Gardens: https://riverviewgardens.org/

2017 – Fox Valley World Relief: https://worldrelieffoxvalley.org/

2018 – Pillars: http://pillarsinc.org/

2019 – Unitarian Universalist Service Committee: https://www.uusc.org