CFUMC members serve the community in a wide variety of ways, but we are always looking for new ways to demonstrate the hospitality, love, and grace of Jesus Christ. We’re proud to be involved with all of the local organizations and programs listed below.
If you have any new ideas about how we can better serve our community please contact Jon Scheumann, the Chairperson of our Outreach Ministry Team.
Information about our Current Community Ministries
One Thing Ministry
For the past year we've been collecting different items for different organizations and members of our community. So far we've collected diapers, coats & jackets, peanut butter, children's shoes and clothing, and personal care items. Through partnering with other churches and charity organizations, our gifts have had a tremendous impact on how ministry is accomplished in Charlottesville. Please keep any eye on our weekly email and the church bulletin for upcoming opportunities to participate in this vital ministry. Please contact Carolyn McGee with any questions or suggestions for future collections.
Bread & Blessings Soup Kitchen
This weekly outreach ministry provides a nourishing meal that is prepared, cooked, and served with loving hands every Monday from 12:00 - 1:00 pm. Hungry guests who are looking for a place to fill their stomachs and get out of the weather are welcome! Volunteers of any age and any level of cooking experience are encouraged to come lend a hand. The group meets in the kitchen to prepare, cook, serve and clean up after our last guest is served. If you are interested in helping with this compassionate outreach ministry please contact Chris Roehl.
First United Methodist Preschool
First United Methodist Preschool (FUMP) provides developmentally appropriate preschool and exposure to the Bible and teachings of Jesus. In addition, FUMP provides scholarships for up to seven students who qualify as low-income or at-risk. Above and beyond tuition, these scholarships provide emergency assistance and resources for students’ families. This important ministry is made possible through fundraising and the generous support of CFUMC. Volunteers are welcome to get involved with the preschool board scholarship committee or simply give a donation. If you are interested in participating or learning more, please contact FUMP@cvillefirstumc.org.
Good News Jail Ministry
Good News Jail Ministry is a world-wide ministry, founded 50 years ago in the state of Virginia. Their mission is to make disciples for Jesus Christ by bringing the Word to our incarcerated brothers and sisters. The Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail houses a chaplain who ministers to approximately 500 inmates with the help of volunteers who teach Bible classes, mentor inmates, and preach.
Justice Ministry Team (IMPACT)
IMPACT uses a listening process to identify issues of injustice, which are the origins of poverty, joblessness, low literacy, homelessness, poor health, mental illness, and hopelessness. Once issues are identified, research is conducted to find solutions and present them to those persons in our community who have the power and resources to effect change. Being a member of the IMPACT ministry involves prayer, discernment, and action. Attendance at yearly rallies and assemblies establishes networks among congregations and those in need. If you are interested in participating or learning more visit IMPACT's website or contact George Batten.
Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry
Begun in 2004 as a ministry of CFUMC, its mission is “To give food with kindness and compassion to those seeking assistance while providing an opportunity for volunteers to serve their neighbors in Charlottesville and surrounding communities.” Loaves & Fishes currently gives bagged groceries to low income individuals and families three times per week or by appointment, and is accepting donations. To volunteer to help with food distribution, please call them at (434) 996-7868. For more information, visit their website.
PACEM
PACEM is a ministry of over 21 local congregations that have come together to help the unhoused in our community. Each night from October through April, an evening meal and a warm place to sleep is provided to men and women in our community who would otherwise be hungry and sleeping outdoors. Currently, shelters operate out of local churches for one to two week blocks of time. Volunteers helped to welcome guests, cook and serve meals, visit with guests, and act as overnight hosts.
Pack to School
We provide backpacks and supplies to those in need at local schools: Jackson Via and Burnley Moran. Supplies are delivered in August prior to the start of the school year. This important ministry helps children start their year on a positive note and it shows our Christian love and support for them in their educational journeys. If you are interested in participating, learning more, or making a donation, please contact our church office or Anika Winterhoff.
Prayer Quilt Ministry
Reaching out to those in need of prayer, we provide a small lap quilt tied with knots representing the prayers of our congregation. These quilts are made by many loving hands. You don't have to know how to sew to participate; there are many ways you can help! Ironing, cutting squares, matching fabric, shopping for fabric, sewing, and layering are just a few ways you can lend a hand. They meet on the last Sunday of the month in the Fellowship Hall at 12:30 pm. If you are interested in participating or learning more, please contact Teri Guertler.