Compassion Bank – Westwood Unitarian Congregation

The Compassion Bank of Westwood

Founded in 2014, the bank is one way to realize Westwood’s purpose as a compassionate community of free religious thought, inviting all people to rest, grow & serve the world. As a shared ministry of the congregation, it is available to members, friends & staff of Westwood congregation.

The Minister & Compassionate Connections Coordinator, as discreet bankers, access offerings on account when requested or needed by Westwoodians, providing compassionate support & comfort during troubling times.

Members, friends & staff can deposit a service or request a withdrawal for any of the following offers:

Card Crew. Folks willing to circulate a card signed by the congregation acknowledging a significant event. Mailed to our member/friend/staff experiencing a family loss, injury, surgery, hospitalization or confinement.

Listeners. Folks willing to listen to a member/friend/staff sort through a troubling issue or dilemma. e.g. someone contemplating a challenge or change or decision.

Nourishers. Folks willing to prepare a soup or meal for member(s), friend(s) or staff in difficult circumstances. e.g. a family or individual suffering a loss or serious family illness.

Transporters. Folks willing to drive/accompany someone to an appointment, to church or deliver nourishment. e.g. to a homebound Westwoodian going through trying times.

Visitors. Folks willing to visit a Westwoodian confined in hospital or a care facility or at home. e.g. bring news of Westwood & check-in for the wellbeing of the person.

Handihelps. Folks willing to help with a repair or provide advice to Westwoodians for home, garden, auto or technology.

Special Offers. Folks with a unique compassionate offering for someone in the congregation. Or folks seeking help with a unique need.

Offers of compassionate action are held confidentially in the bank & shared only with permission among the parties concerned. As requests come in, folks with matching offers are contacted & given the option of participating. Depositors are always contacted first to ensure they are currently able & willing to provide a requested service.

All compassionate interactions remain private unless agreed to otherwise by the parties concerned to respect the privacy of anyone needing assistance & to honour the limits of a person providing care.

An exception to privacy & confidentiality between offerers & receivers happens when abuse or harmful actions are involved or potential. In a case of imminent harm, the situation must be reported, for the safety of all involved.

Westwood’s Minister & Compassionate Connections Coordinator are available to all Westwoodians as supports regarding this congregational program. Need more information or to wish to become involved? Contact compassion@westwoodunitarian.ca