UU Asheville has “congregational polity,” meaning the congregation is the highest authority for making decisions. There is no other hierarchy. The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is the source of associational information and a way for us to take collective action with other UUs, but they have no say over our policies, nor do they contribute in any way to our bottom line.

Because congregants are the decision-makers at UU Asheville, we would like for you to become familiar with our bylaws. While its not the most exciting part, it is important information should you decide to become a member.  

UU Asheville operates using policy governance. This is a way of organizing that makes it easier to have all parts of the church working toward the same goals, allows the Board of Trustees to take more time to take a “balcony view” of the organization, and gives staff members fewer “bosses.”   In policy governance, every committee and task force has a staff liaison which makes it easier for the staff to do their work, which is empowering and supporting the work of the congregation’s members.

And finally, because even UU’s are human, UU Asheville has a set of policies that outline specific “rules” and procedures for a variety of situations. Most importantly,  we expect you to read our  Healthy Congregation Policy  which is put in place to provide a safe environment for our members to explore, experience, and express themselves in our community. We are VERY serious about protecting our congregants from abusive behaviors, which is why we are as clear as possible in our policy on that matter.