Employee Handbook

Welcome to the Unitarian Society of Hartford

Welcome to the Unitarian Society of Hartford (USH). As an employee, you play a vital role in nurturing spiritual growth, fostering a welcoming community, and advancing our shared values. This handbook presents our core principles, practices, and expectations, supporting your professional journey and meaningful contribution.

Our Seven Core Principles:

·       The inherent worth and dignity of every person;

·       Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;

·       Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;

·       A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;

·       The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;

·       The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;

·       Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.

 

Collaborative Employment Process

USH values a collaborative employment process. New hires are welcomed through an orientation that emphasizes teamwork, mentorship, and open communication. Ongoing collaboration between employees, supervisors, and leadership ensures that every staff member’s talents are recognized and nurtured. Opportunities for feedback and participation are provided in staff meetings, project planning, and organizational initiatives.

Semiannual Reviews

To support professional growth, USH conducts semiannual reviews for every employee. These reviews are designed as constructive and collaborative conversations, focusing on achievements, opportunities, and goals. They foster clarity around roles, ensure alignment with USH’s mission, and provide a space for mutual feedback. Supervisors and employees work together to create development plans and celebrate progress.

Workplace Practices

• Inclusion and Diversity: We celebrate diversity and foster an inclusive environment for all employees and community members.
• Safe and Respectful Workplace: All employees are expected to maintain a safe, harassment-free, and respectful environment.
• Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of congregation members and fellow staff at all times.
• Professionalism: Approach your role with integrity, accountability, and high ethical standards.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with staff and volunteers, valuing open communication and mutual support.
• Continuous Improvement: Seek opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute new ideas to better our community and workplace.

Employee Expectations

• Attendance and Punctuality: Arrive on time and notify your supervisor promptly of any absences.
• Dress Code: Dress appropriately for your position and for public interaction, reflecting respect for the congregation and community.
• Use of Facilities and Resources: Use USH property responsibly and for its intended purposes. Be mindful of shared spaces.
• Communication: Communicate openly, clearly, and respectfully with colleagues, members, and leadership.
• Compliance: Adhere to all USH policies, procedures, and applicable laws.

Resources and Policies

• Policy and Procedure Manual: For detailed information regarding employment policies, workplace safety, benefits, and grievance procedures, please refer to the USH Policy and Procedure Manual.
• Employee Benefits: For questions about benefits, contact the Church Administrator or visit our Staff Resources page.
• Reporting Issues: If you experience or witness workplace concerns, harassment, or discrimination, report immediately to your supervisor or the Human Resources Committee. See our Safer Congregation Policy.
• Professional Development: Employees are encouraged to take advantage of training opportunities. For more information, contact your supeervisor.

Commitment to Our Mission

Our Mission

As a growing, evolving, spiritual community inspired by our denominational values, we commit ourselves to:

•    Nurture our needs for personal spiritual growth, inspirational worship and a mutually caring community
•    Devote ourselves to religious learning for all ages
•    Embrace human diversity by welcoming individuals and families of all kinds
•    Join with the larger community to promote love, justice and service to society

Toward these ends we pledge our talents, energies and resources.

 

Acknowledgment

All employees are asked to acknowledge receipt of this handbook and commit to following the principles, practices, and expectations described herein. A paper copy of your acknowledgement will be kept in your employee file.

 

Links and Resources

• USH Website: https://hartforduu.org/
• USH Newsletter: https://hartforduu.org/newsletters/
• USH Employee Policy and Procedure Manual: https://hartforduu.org/human-resources-policies-2026/
• Safer Congregation Policy: https://hartforduu.org/policies/safer-congregation-policy/
• USH Calendar https://hartforduu.org/event/
• Volunteer Sign-ups https://hartforduu.org/volunteers/