Updates from the UTO Finance and Archives Committee

Text to Give Update

Many updates have been taking place at DFMS in the Finance Department over the last few months. As these changes are finalized, processes will become easier and more straightforward.

One important update: We are no longer able to use “text to give” as a platform for online giving. UTO Director Heather Melton is working to remove references to this feature from any of our downloadable materials. If you happen to see it mentioned, please email her with the link so she can update it.

You can still donate online; we just no longer offer a prompt for text messages to the online donation portal.

Thank you for your help during this transition.

2025 Annual Report

Thank you to those of you who provided feedback regarding our 2024 Annual Report. We’re now on our eighth annual report, and we are still learning what information is the most helpful to present in this format. We decided to go with a scaled-back format for 2025, so please let us know what you think. A couple highlights:

1. 2025 was a challenging year for foundations and organizations that rely on donations, and UTO was not spared from the impact of the economy. While we experienced an outpouring of donations in December 2025 (more than December 2024), total giving was down about $90,000 from 2024. If your diocese hasn’t sent its funds from 2025, please do so as soon as you are able.
2. On a positive note: Participation in UTO increased in 2025 compared to 2024. More materials were sent out for our seasonal offerings; there are a number of new UTO parish and diocesan leaders; and the energy and excitement around practicing gratitude are growing. There’s no better news than this.
3. We continue to live into our mission. The report shares an update on our progress toward our 2025 goals and outlines our goals for 2026.

To read the full annual report, click here.