In January 2026, we launched an exciting campaign called VisionFund300+. Our goal is to raise
$1.25 million over the next 3 years. This webpage is designed to provide important updates about the campaign, progress against goals, and status of key initiatives.
Why VisionFund300+
Our goal to grow and thrive means we must invest now! Our annual budget and capital maintenance funds are not sufficient to carry out major buildings and grounds improvements or to support the ministry, program, and outreach items in our vision. VisionFund300+ will help lay the foundation for our next 100 years.
What VisionFund300+ Will Accomplish
VisionFund300+ will be a combination of both capital projects and vision projects.
Capital Projects: include large preservation, restoration, and improvement work in our sanctuary and facilities, as well as modernization, accessibility, and needed improvements. We know the church is not just about buildings and grounds. But this base will serve as a foundation to expand our programs to change lives through outreach efforts, ministries, and our work for justice and equity.
We have many capital projects in the works. These include:
- Air-Conditioned Sanctuary
- Outdoor Pavillion
- New Parking Lot and Expanded Driveway
- Archive Room
Details about these projects can be found below.
Vision Projects: relate to our basic purpose as a church – serving God by loving our neighbors and welcoming members of the community. We plan to Bridge the Gap with funds to meet reduced and dwindling federal social service resources in our local community. We will work with our ministry partners to provide food, shelter, and other services to those without basic human necessities. We will also work for justice, nurture our children and youth, and create a safe and caring community that can sustain and nurture us all.
How You Can Make a Difference
How Much to Give
That’s between you and God. Sacrificial giving is an element of Christian faith, recognizing not everyone has been blessed in a similar way. Whatever you donate will represent something that is a heartfelt spiritual decision. Together, we can reach our target.
How to Donate
A financial donation is the most common way. You can also donate real estate, stocks, bonds, tax refunds, or trusts – there are many ways to give! Your company may offer matching gifts. If qualified, you can take advantage of tax benefits from IRA withdrawals.
Capital Projects
Air-Conditioned Sanctuary
Air conditioning our sanctuary will enable us to have a year-round spacious and comfortable space for worship, music, and other special programs. While Sunday Worship in the Parish Hall has been a viable alternative in the summer, in recent years we have outgrown the space. Climate control will also allow us to sustain the condition of our historic structure and our amazing pipe organ.
Outdoor Pavilion
A new outdoor pavilion will create an exciting space for worship, fellowship, and new programs for our congregation and the greater Cheshire community. It will feature flexible space for activities, as well as amenities that may include a fire pit, outdoor grill, and a dedicated prayer garden for quiet reflection.
New Parking Lot and Expanded Driveway
Archive Room
The celebration of our 300th anniversary in 2025 included a public display of documents, books, photographs, and many other historical records and artifacts of our congregation’s history. This project will create an environmentally controlled, public space in the former library, to store and view our priceless collection of treasured records, documenting and preserving our amazing history.
Bridging the Gap
The Bridging the Gap program reflects First Congregational Church’s enduring commitment to faith in action. It stands as both a response to today’s urgent social needs and a forward-looking investment in lasting community transformation. The program is guided by five principles: Faith in Action, Local Impact, Equity & Dignity, Sustainability, and Collaboration.
In addition to our annual outreach program, 10% of the charitable donations to VisionFund300+ will be distributed to the following organizations:
• Hopeville Mission Church – Waterbury
• Master’s Manna – Wallingford
• Hope for our Neighbors – Cheshire
• Greater Waterbury Interfaith Ministries
• Christian Community Action (CCA) – New Haven
• Cheshire Human Services
• Integrated Refugee & Immigration Services (IRIS)
• Proposed Henry and Flora Peters Scholarship program
Through collaboration with these organizations, First Church extends the Gospel’s call to love our neighbors as ourselves. This initiative strengthens our shared community by addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions. As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in building bridges of hope, healing, and renewal for all.