Common Fund

As faith communities we share a common concern for the well-being of those who are struggling. The Common Fund of the Consultation of Religious Communities is one way we can pool resources to address human needs.

The Common Fund has an typically had an annual income of $21,000. this year, 2007, CRC has contributed nearly $14,000. Needs in the community have increased over previous years.

How Can I Help?
Donations to the Common Fund can be given through your local congregation by earmarking the Common Fund. Individual Contributions can also be send directly to the Crisis Center, earmarking Common Fund.

How does it work?
The Common Fund is administered by the Crisis Center at 1121 Gilbert Court in Iowa City (351-0140). Religious communities are encouraged to refer clients to the Crisis Center where application and screening is handled by a social worker and trained volunteers. Individuals and families may receive up to $300 annually in Common Fund assistance.

Typically the Common Fund covers needs such as medications, eyeglasses, work boots, bus passes, photo identification, auto repairs, security deposits, and prevention of utility shut-offs and evictions which, when unfulfilled, can lead to prolonged unemployment, hunger and homelessness.

By combining resources we have the opportunity to provide for our neighbors’ basic needs while creating a plan for a brighter future. Supporting others during critical moments has the potential to improve lives and strengthen our community.

Forging a clear path toward stability and self-sufficiency requires knowledge resources and support. Please consider joining us in this endeavor for the common good. Every dollar contributed to the Common Fund goes directly to help members of our community who are in need. Checks from your religious community may be sent to the address above. (For IRS purposes, individual gifts must be channeled through congregational coffers).

Common Fund Minutes

April 2008 meeting
Present: Dayna Ballantyne, Rob Dotzel, Sally Jablonski, Irv Pfab

1. At the next CRC meeting and via email we will ask each member congregation fo the names and phone numbers of people in charge of volunteer coordinating. CF members will call the volunteer coordinators to introduce the Capacity Inventory and invite their participation.

2. The Capacity Inventory was approved with the following changes: under the heading Gifts of the hands/ Skills we added two categories.
____auto maintenance/ minor repairs (i.e. oil change, fluids, wipers, tires, automatic windows, brakes, belts, hoses, etc.)

____sewing or mending/ making cloth diapers

3. $300 from a current balance of 3310.87 was designated to purchase bus passes. We spent some time discussing the pros and cons of monthly pases versus trip tickets. It wa decided to leave that decision up to the discretion of Crisis Center staff as they respond to individual needs. Sally is waiting to hear back from Dale Helling about purchasing discounted monthly passes. Dayna recommended a goal of having $1500 per month in the Common Fund, with a portion (such as $500) set aside for transportation assistance (i.e. bus passes).

4. Dayna will forward the monthly CF report to Bev Marshall for distribution, she will have the annual report available at the next CF meeting. Rob is attending the ABCR workshop with Mike Green on Friday.

Next Meeting: Tuesday May 13, 2:30 pm