The Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock is unique among Unitarian Universalist congregations in having its own grantmaking program with a professional staff. Drawing upon the generous bequest of Caroline Veatch in 1953, the purpose of the program is to support a broad range of denominational and non-denominational activities throughout the United States that reflect the values and philosophy of Unitarian Universalism. Non-denominational organizations supported by program funds are those engaged in social justice activities designed to bring about long-term systemic change and increase democratic participation in policy making to create a humane, equitable, and sustainable society.

The members of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Shelter Rock determine the annual philanthropic commitment of the congregation. The Congregation operates two grantmaking programs that fall under the responsibility of the Executive Director. The Executive Director and professional program staff manage the Veatch Program, which is overseen by the Board of Governors. The Veatch Program funds grassroots organizations advancing public policies that address the root causes of social problems and provide support for Unitarian Universalist institutions. This past year, the Veatch Program awarded $12.3 million to almost 200 organizations. The second grantmaking program of the Congregation is the Large Grants Program. The Large Grants Advisory Group, with the support of the Veatch Program Executive Director, makes recommendations to the Board of Governors regarding the annual process of selecting funding areas and specific grantees through direct democratic participation by voting members of the Congregation. The Large Grants Program currently awards between six and ten $100,000 grants to organizations working on program areas selected each year by members of the Congregation, including grants to fund response to crises.

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Additional background on the Veatch Program is available on their website.