We offer small groups that meet on a variety of topics, including book groups, affinity groups, and discussion groups & more! Most of these groups are drop-in, and visitors are always welcome. Information can be found on our calendar. Interested in joining a small group? Contact either the WES office (wes@ethicalsociety.org) or the small group coordinator listed on each group’s page.

Opportunities for Engagement at WES!

WES offers many teams, committees, and programs! They are grouped below in the following categories:

• Education
• Governance and Operation
• Small Groups
• Social Connections
• Social Justice
• Sunday Mornings
• Other

Education

SEEK Team

This team meets monthly and works with the Director of Lifelong Learning and the SEEK Assistant to develop all levels of children’s programming and curricula for Sunday Ethical Education for Kids (SEEK) programming.  Contact seek@ethicalsociety.org for more info.

Sunday Ethical Education for Kids (SEEK) Teachers

Teams of volunteers support each of our Sunday School classes (although our nursery also has paid childcare providers).  We couldn’t have a children’s program without ample members teaching our children and youth. We need about 50 volunteers to cover each of our 13 children’s programs. Non-parents are encouraged to participate! Contact seek@ethicalsociety.org for more info.

Teen Group Volunteers

The WES Teen Group is part of the SEEK program, but needs additional support for different activities throughout the year. Teens meet during the 11:30 platform and have a rotating schedule. They also need support for trips, conferences and regular programming. Contact seek@ethicalsociety.org for more info.

Coming of Age Program Volunteers

This group is part of the SEEK program, and currently runs on an every other year basis for 6 weekend retreats with our 9th grade students and their parents. Volunteers are needed to help run programs and to help with logistics throughout the year. Contact seek@ethicalsociety.org for more info.

Governance and Operations

Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees has ultimate and legal responsibility for the business affairs and policies of WES. Its seven members are elected by the congregation to two-year terms (beginning in alternate years, to maintain continuity) at the Spring annual meeting. The honor of being elected a Trustee carries with it responsibility, a commitment of time, and the satisfaction of playing a key role in the growth and constancy of the Society.  All members are welcome to attend meetings of the Board. The Trustees elect their own officers. Contact the Board President for more information at boardpresident@ethicalsociety.org.

Building Team

The building team helps maintain and improve our property. We need people who can help with all aspects of property maintenance, especially handyperson, electrical and plumbing work. Contact the WES office at wes@ethicalsociety.org. 

Safety Team

This team assesses and improves all aspects of security at WES, ensuring that our building provides a safe home for our own community and all who meet within our space. Contact Tom Hutton, Administrator, at tomh@ethicalsociety.org.

Share the Plate Team

This team chooses the monthly recipients of our Share the Plate–where half of all donated cash during our weekly collection supports another organization. They choose local and international groups, with an emphasis on our social justice priorities and our ability to connect with the groups on their ongoing work. Contact the WES office at wes@ethicalsociety.org. 

Stewardship Team

The Stewardship Team helps build greater support for the core funding of WES. It ensures that the various fundraising efforts throughout the year are coordinated, varied, and clearly connected to our mission. The team advises on policy issues and initiate stewardship education through the year, and creates the core messaging for the annual operating budget drive. Contact Tom Hutton, tomh@ethicalsociety.org

Subject-Based Small Groups

Biology Discussion Group

Second Sundays, after the last platform of the day.

This group reads books that are both accessible to those without a science background, and of great contemporary interest. It is a drop-in group, so you are welcome at any meeting with no need to RSVP! For more information contact Paul Baker, plbaker@me.com.

Mindfulness Group

First Mondays, 7:30 – 9:00 pm

This group is for people interested in practicing meditation and living with mindfulness–or for anyone wanting to find out more about these topics. We explore both practices and ideas. Contact Trish Weil at patricialweil@gmail.com or Ann Baker at annlouisebaker@gmail.com.

Philosophy Group

4th Sundays, 1pm, Classroom 1A. Scientific results and religious beliefs are often used to suggest ways in which it might be best for us to live. Is religious humanism combining the best science and empathetic ethics where the two spheres of thought overlap and seeking common truths around which to best design our systems? How might religious humanism become more of an agent of desirable change for all people? How might knowledge of philosophy and other disciplines contribute to creating a more ethical world? Be a listening ear, share your knowledge, or find collaborators for a work in progress. We strive to maintain diversity in all areas to maximize our perspectives, so all who are interested are encouraged to attend regardless of their relationship with WES or familiarity with the topics involved. Our aim is to teach and learn from one another, and to improve our understandings and share them more widely.

Sci Fi Book Group

In formation! Contact Adam Limehouse at alimehouse@gmail.com.

Life Stages and Connection Groups

Aging With Intention Discussion Group

Quarterly, Sunday afternoons

A chance to connect with others around topics of aging. Contact Julie Campbell, juliecampbell@aol.com, or Beth Baker, bethbaker@starpower.net.

Deepening Circles

Deepening Circles provide an opportunity to gather in groups where we can speak more intimately to one another, talk about matters of ultimate importance, tell our stories and find our commonality. Through real and meaningful connection on an on-going basis, we can be with each other in profound ways as our lives and thoughts unfold. Deepening Circles generally meet 1-2 times monthly, over the course of a year. Some focus on a specific topic and some are more open. Contact the office at wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Divorced Parents Group

This is a support group for parents who are going through separation or divorce, or who are currently co-parenting with their divorced or separated partner. It provides a safe and confidential environment for connection and mutual support. Contact seek@ethicalsociety.org for more info.

Neighborhood Groups

The WES Community has multiple “Neighborhood Groups” which get together at least twice a year for fellowship and a potluck dinner.  Please be in touch with the office (wes@ethicalsociety.org) to learn more about your neighborhood.

People of Color Group

WES members and friends who identify as people of color gather once a month for solidarity and connection. Contact Trang Duong at trangd@gmail.com.

Still Thirsty After All These Years

3rd Fridays

This group of generally 50+ adults gathers at Austin Grill in downtown Silver Spring. All are welcome! Contact Nancy McGuire, nancy.k.mcguire@gmail.com.

Young@WES

WES’ young adults (generally about 18-35+) gather for regular get-togethers…everything from potlucks to bowling! Contact Emily Newman, emilynwmn@gmail.com.

Social Justice

Earth Ethics Action Team

The Earth Ethics Action Team is an environmental advocacy and stewardship group that meets monthly to plan and coordinate a wide range of activities at WES that focus on earth ethics. Earth Ethics sponsors environmental film showings, coordinates letter writing on various climate change legislation and other environmental issues, and works on congregational issues with Greater Washington Interfaith Power & Light and with UUSJ (Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice). They also actively work to make WES a greener facility. Contact  Rich Reis, rreis@verizon.net, Linda Silversmith, lindas@capaccess.org, Ann Baker, 2beans@earthlink.net, or John Kester, John.Kester@earthlink.net.

Global Connections

This team’s goal is to reach out to our brothers and sisters across the border and form lasting relationships that foster cultural exchange, friendship and solidarity. Global Connections has embarked on a “sister community” relationship with El Rodeo, a rural village in El Salvador, creating a Partnership Agreement between our communities for the road ahead. Each year, WES sends a delegation to deepen our relationship with the people of El Rodeo and walk with them in their search for a better life. The group will include teens and adults. If you are interested in participating in this journey or working with Global Connections, please contact Ross Wells, rosswells@starpower.net.

Sanctuary DMV

We work with a coalition of congregations in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area to support immigrants who face deportation. This includes accompanying them to ICE check-ins, becoming trained in Rapid Response during ICE raids, and providing Know Your Rights trainings. To get involved, email Kristin Hunter at kristinhunter@starpower.net.

Washington Interfaith Network

WES is a member of the Washington Interfaith Network, a group of congregations and other organizations working together to change the District of Columbia and put people and neighborhoods first. A new team is working on gun violence and police accountability. We welcome all WES members and friends to join us in our vision for greater economic justice, more jobs, and better opportunities for the children and youth of the District. Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Anti-Racism Anti-Oppression Multicultural Team

This team works to support WES’ commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression work, and our hope to continually grow our intercultural competency and multicultural congregation. Contact Trang Duong, trangd@gmail.com.

Sunday Morning

Celebrations Team

This group of artists, musicians, and other creative types help make our celebrations come alive. No experience necessary, just enthusiasm! Primary focus is the Winter Festival, the Humanist Seder, and the Spring Festival. Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Chorus

The WES chorus sings at Sunday platforms and seasonal celebrations, throughout the year. Music is chosen to thematically enhance these services and events. The chorus performs two Sundays per month, September through June, and rehearses weekly on Wednesday evenings, 7:15-9 pm at WES from late August through mid-June. The chorus is open to adults who love singing and wish to enjoy the unique fellowship of a chorus.  No experience is necessary. Contact music@ethicalsociety.org for more information.  

Green Team

WES is committed to reducing waste as much as possible in our activities and throughout our building.  The Green Team provides clean-up so we can use real dishes instead of paper or plastic products at our Sunday coffee hour and at events throughout the year. Volunteers are always needed!  Contact Ann Baker to add your name to the list of rotating volunteers. Contact Ann Baker, annlouisebaker@gmail.com.

Musicians Jam

Musicians of all kinds gather weekly from September through June to play for each other, work up pieces together, and sometimes play for Sunday platforms. Regular jams are Wednesday nights from 6:30-7:30/8 pm. To be added to the email list and to have access to the google calendar contact music@ethicalsociety.org.

Schmoozapalooza

3rd Sundays, after Platform from September through June

The fabulous Schmoozapalooza team prepares lunch for all to enjoy as they catch up with friends and meet new folks after Platform ($5 suggested donation, free for first-timers). Volunteers for prep and clean-up are always needed! Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Sound Team

Volunteers manage the sound system on Sunday mornings and at special events, and record the platforms and festivals for distribution as MP3s on our website.  Contact John Pfeifer, jpfeifer@gmail.com.

Ushers

Our Ushers help newcomers and members to find their seats in the Main Hall on Sunday morning, and create an overall welcoming environment. They also receive our collection during the platform service and ensure its safe recording. If you’re interested in being an usher, please email Maceo at maceot@ethicalsociety.org.

Welcome Team

One of the highest profile groups in our community is our Welcome Team, who welcome members and visitors on Sundays each week and help ensure a positive Sunday morning experience. Contact Shan Evans, sevans4408@yahoo.com.

Youth Voices Chorus

WES Youth Voices, formed in Fall 2018, allows youth ages 8 and above to sing together weekly in rehearsal and once per month in platform. No specific musical experience required, but a love of singing and a desire to learn are welcome. Rehearsals Wednesdays, 6:30-7 pm. Contact Music@ethicalsociety.org for more info.

Other

American Ethical Union Officiants

Officiants are lay-leaders who have been trained and certified by the American Ethical Union as legally authorized to perform wedding ceremonies on behalf of the Ethical Society. They may also perform Naming Ceremonies and Memorial Services. Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Auction Team

The auction is one of WES’ most laughter-filled evenings…and one that raises important funds for the work of the congregation! Held each year in November, it features donated goods and services and social events at members’ homes. The Auction Team pulls all the donations together, plans a fun theme, and throws a great party. Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Community Relations Committee (CRC)

This committee supports open and direct communication at WES, creating opportunities to build community through our interactions. Members of the committee staff the Feedback Center, found outside the Main Hall after platform every Sunday. You can leave a comment–compliment, suggestion, concern–at the Feedback Center and the CCLS will ensure your feedback gets to the right person! Contact crc@ethicalsociety.org.

Lay Leadership Development Team (LLDC)

This committee, elected by the membership, identifies resources to nurture the long-term vitality of our lay leaders, inspires more volunteerism at WES, conducts or facilitates regular leadership training opportunities, familiarizes members with the various leadership positions, and nominates candidates for the Board of Trustees. Contact lldc@ethicalsociety.org.

Office Volunteer Program

Members volunteer assistance to the staff on a variety of administrative tasks, answering phones, helping with mailings, and maintaining our library and book cabinet, and record keeping for our food coupon program.  Your help is greatly appreciated! We are looking for volunteers to help out a half day each week. Contact the office at wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Pastoral Care Associates

The Pastoral Care Associates are members of WES, specially trained by WES to provide confidential care and support to members in crisis or transition– such as illness, death, hospitalization, and welcoming a baby or child. They also work with the entire WES  community to offer practical support. You can find a Pastoral Care Associate staffing a table outside the Main Hall after every Sunday’s platform; look for the sign with the big blue heart. Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.

Personnel Team

The Personal Team works, with the Senior Leader, on personnel policies for WES staff. Contact the WES office, wes@ethicalsociety.org.