Ever wondered how a church with a $2.4 million budget and 28 dedicated staff members keeps everything running with integrity and transparency? In this episode, Revs. Daniel Kanter and T. J. Fitzgerald break down how our church's finances really work — from pledges and balanced budgets to collective generosity and community trust. What you'll learn: How the annual budget is built from member pledges Why the board and ministers must pass a balanced budget before it goes to a congregational vote What makes our financial system "clean" — no rollovers, no surprises The power of pledging: why every contribution matters How online members and friends help sustain our shared mission Why annual audits and full transparency build lasting trust Every good work we do together — every service, program, and outreach — begins with your pledge. Join us for a conversation about faith, finances, and the collective power of generosity. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: https://tinyurl.com/firstchurchpaypal First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now