Vancouver UCC is blessed to be doing ministry in the Pacific Northwest – a place known to have a big heart for justice and mercy. Here are some other organizations in southwest Washington who are also working for religious, economic, ecological, or other forms of justice in the local area:
- The Metropolitan Community Church of the Gentle Shepherd: this fellow progressive and inclusive Christian church began worshiping on October 6, 1968 when the Rev. Troy Perry conducted the first MCC service in southern California. In the ensuing years, MCC has moved out of California and across the globe. The MCC welcomes all ages, races, ethnicity, genders, gender identities, sexual orientations or religious backgrounds. Worship is designed so those who are differently-abled can join in worship as well.
- Martha’s Pantry: Founded in 1986 as an outreach of MCC of the Gentle Shepherd, Martha’s Pantry is the only non-government agency in southwest Washington serving those living with HIV and AIDS. The Pantry is funded entirely by donations and grants.
- Triple Point: A youth group for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, queer and questioning youth ages 11-18. Triple Point provides education, safety, support, and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community in Clark County. They exist to empower LGBTQ+ youth and allies by providing education, safety, support and acceptance. Meetings occur frequently. Check website for more information.
- SHARE: Share Vancouver began in 1979 and has been providing food and housing assistance in the Vancouver area ever since.
- WHO: The Winter Hospitality Overflow has two locations in Vancouver – one for men and one for families – and is a program staffed by volunteers. If you need assistance, please contact the WHO through the Council for the Homeless Housing Hotline: 360-695-9677.
In addition, we also support the following organizations:
- The National United Church of Christ: Our denominational headquarters are in Cleveland, Ohio. The UCC is a “young” denomination, created on June 25,1957, in Cleveland, when the Evangelical and Reformed Church, and the Congregational Christian Churches joined together as the United Church of Christ.
- The UCC’s 5 for 5: These special offerings are taken throughout the year to support five areas of need.
- The Central Pacific Conference of the United Church of Christ: Vancouver UCC belongs to the Central Pacific conference. Our conference minister is Rev. Molly Carlson, and the office is located in Portland, Oregon.