United Thank Offering
Started by women in 1883, the United Thank Offering has become one of The Episcopal Church’s most enduring and impactful ministries, raising more than $146 million to fund some 5,500 projects worldwide, from water-filtration systems in Louisiana to prison support outreach in Ghana.
The funds come from the United Thank Offering’s yearly Ingathering, which includes monies collected in “blue boxes” at Episcopal churches, as well as online. Throughout the year, the ministry promotes a spiritual discipline of daily gratitude through webinars, book clubs, and resources, and encourages people to express their gratitude through giving.
Every penny given to the United Thank Offering is given away in grant funding to support innovative mission and ministry throughout The Episcopal Church and Anglican Communion.
Learn about the United Thank Offering
What projects has the United Thank Offering supported?
For more than 125 years, the monies faithfully collected in Episcopal congregations through thank offerings have been distributed through a grant process to projects around the globe. The graphic below shows grant distribution to Episcopal and Anglican provinces. Download a complete list of every grant awarded since 1883. Click here to see all grant projects awarded in Episcopal dioceses from 2020 to 2026. Click here to read about grants awarded this year.
Gratitude resources
Knowing that intentional gratitude requires practice, the United Thank Offering offers materials and creates opportunities for anyone to begin or deepen this practice, at home and in your congregation. Resources are available for fall, Lent, and spring/summer for families, children, and congregations.
Stewardship resources
Find free stewardship campaign materials adaptable for congregations of all sizes and for all ages.
Granting information
Learn how to apply for a United Thank Offering grant and watch videos featuring grant recipients.
Leading UTO in your parish
Are you interested in encouraging your congregation or diocese to practice gratitude? The United Thank Offering works closely with local coordinators, offering numerous resources and active support.
Recursos en español
Find gratitude and formation resources in Spanish.
Give to the United Thank Offering
Learn about the two ways to support the work of the United Thank Offering: the Ingathering, where 100% of donations are given away as grants the following year; and the Memorial Trust Fund, which helps fund gratitude resources for congregations and dioceses.
Make a thank offering today
Would you like to express gratitude for blessings in your life? Consider making an online gift to the United Thank Offering.
Free Vacation Bible School resources
“Waves of Gratitude,“ a water-themed resource that premiered at the 81st General Convention, features STEAM projects and teaches about baptism. ”Gratitude Rocks!,” which focuses on geology and the Eucharist, will be available in fall 2026.
Contact Heather Melton
Staff officer for the United Thank Offering
Support the Work of the United Thank Offering
Connect with UTO
Register your parish
If your parish participates in UTO, let us know.
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UTO leader form
Please fill out this form if you are a new coordinator or transitioning out of leadership.
