2026–2027 Compassion in Action Organizations

Compassion in Action is our congregational tithe shared to improve our world. Many weeks out of year, the congregation gives 100% of the donations collected during the Sunday Offering to organizations doing work for social justice and equity in the local and global community. This is an overview of the organizations First Universalist has supported in fiscal year 2026–2027.

Participating Compassion in Action organizations are nominated by members of the church and approved by the Social Justice Council.

July 2026

Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC)

For over 80 years, UUSC has worked to challenge injustice and advance human rights. Through our collaboration with frontline communities and grassroots movements, we are building a better world together. UUSC addresses the core causes of injustice by partnering with local communities, amplifying their voices, and advocating for institutional and systemic change. We recognize the inherent worth, dignity, and power of all people.

LEARN MORE: UUSC.ORG

July 2026

FrontLine Farming

FrontLine Farming is dedicated to cultivating local food systems on the Front Range of Colorado. We work with community partners to develop and nurture local food networks, and support farmer leadership in food systems development. Through food production, land stewardship, education, and community collaboration, we work to create a thriving agricultural landscape and vibrant local economies.

LEARN MORE: FRONTLINEFARMING.ORG

July 2026

Volunteers for Hospitalized Veterans

Since 1997 Volunteers for Hospitalized Veterans has served veterans of the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center and the Denver area to provide for their financial needs and well being. About 40% of our donations support the Veteran Administration's local homeless and at risk veterans and their families. Volunteers for Hospitalized Veterans is a unique organization that gives 100% of net earnings and donations to veterans. All fundraising is done by volunteers and we don't pay typical administrative business expenses or salaries. Directors include members of various VAVS Committee organizations, including Sons of The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary, the Marine Corps League, and the Marine Corps League Auxiliary.

LEARN MORE: V4HV.ORG

August 2026

CAFE 180

At CAFE 180, we believe everyone deserves access to healthy food served with dignity. Food insecurity is about more than an empty stomach, it often comes with isolation, shame, and impossible choices between groceries, rent, or medical bills. That's why we've created a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of their ability to pay. Some guests purchase their meals, some volunteer in exchange for a meal, and others are blessed by the generosity of someone who paid it forward. Beyond our cafe, we provide weekly meal kits to families experiencing food insecurity, partner with schools and community organizations to reach those in need, and serve thousands of nutritious meals throughout the Denver metro area.

LEARN MORE: CAFE180.ORG

August 2026

Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition

We advocate for social justice for Coloradans with all types of disabilities. The Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition, or CCDC, is Colorado’s premier disability rights advocacy organization. We are run by and for people with disabilities. We advocate for social justice for Coloradans with all types of disabilities. We strive for all Coloradans with disabilities to live full, equitable lives with equal access to any civic, professional, and/or personal opportunities that are available to people without disabilities.

LEARN MORE: CCDCONLINE.ORG

September 2026

The Delores Project

The Delores Project builds belonging for people experiencing homelessness through the provision and advocacy of safe, dignified, and trauma-informed shelter for women, transgender, and nonbinary individuals, support services, and supportive housing for people of all genders.

LEARN MORE: THEDELORESPROJECT.ORG

September 2026

Urban Peak

Urban Peak (UP) ignites the potential in youth to exit homelessness and create self-determined, fulfilled lives. Urban Peak is the only agency in the Front Range that offers a complete convergence of services for youth experiencing homelessness ages 12-24. UP’s services include: Street Outreach, Day Services, Overnight Shelter, Support Services (education, employment, medical, behavioral health), and Supportive Housing.

LEARN MORE: URBANPEAK.ORG