Community Building, Together

Cheryll Mellenthin, Project Coordinator

Our season of Wintering is upon us—I love this time of year. As it gets colder, it is a perfect time to reflect on the warmth found in being together in community these past few months. First, thanks to all who participated in our Autumnfest Cabaret event in November! We were thrilled to see nearly 175 of you in person as you gathered for crafts, visited with our guests from Haven’s Petting Farm, supported our auctions, and raffles, enjoyed the food carts, and mostly the warmth of fellowship. The many first-time families to Cabaret were a highlight. And thanks to many more of you who also sponsored our event, donated food items to local community partners, and donated items for our fundraiser. A special note of thanks to our incredible volunteer team who planned, prepared, and set up this community gathering. It would have been impossible without you! We’re grateful to all for reminding us how joyful it is to share in this community life, together.

Autumnfest Cabaret success provided the spark for our Holiday Decorating and Craft-Making event in December. We provided the tree and decorations, the lights, the supplies for crafts and you made the magic happen. Together, you worked in community to bring the beauty of the holiday to life here at FUS. Again, we couldn’t have done this without the many members and families, who make FUS a thriving community. Next up, the planning has just begun for our Valentine Jazz Soirée, Saturday, February 11. Save this date! You won’t want to miss an evening of beautiful music, great food, and the perfect setting to share with those you love. As we have more details you can find them here, www.fusmadison.org/valentine. Finally, the Valentine Jazz Soirée supports our 2023-2024 Stewardship Campaign, which is just around the corner. Our belief that stewardship at FUS is all parts time, talent, and treasure, is an enduring concept you all know so well. The objectives for our Stewardship Campaign, as with seasonal events, are centered on our members and the strength of our entire community.

Trimming the tree at the Holiday Decoration & Craft Making Party photo by Franz Mussared Varga