Part of the goal of Gen XMZ is to make it easier for working-age adults to connect with the rich congregational life we have here at UUSB. There are many different ways the group accomplishes this. If you would like to know more about any of the things on this page, including how to join the Discord server, reach out to office@firstunitarian.us

Caring for each other

Our group works together to support one another whenever possible. Sometimes this looks like coordinating a team of folks, both in and out of the Gen XMZ group, to help someone move. And sometimes this means expressing compassion in our Discord’s “joys-and-concerns” channel.

For participants who may live alone, we have a channel on our Discord called “daily-check-ins.” Anyone who wants to is welcome to drop a giph, emoji, or comment each day just so we know that you are doing alright. When a regular participant of that channel doesn’t chime in after a few days we check in with them to see if they need anything.

Occassionally Gen XMZ is also involved in providing support to the wider congregation especially when it comes to assisting folks with technology challenges.

Staying Informed

Working-age adults are pressed for time and have a lot of different things grabbing their attention. In order to make sure everyone is able to stay well informed, Gen XMZ typically hosts a gathering in advance of every all-congregational meeting. Any items that are up for voting are discussed and any needed context on why these issues are before the congregation are explained. The folks who have been around UUSB longer often help newer folks learn the process for voting including how to vote by proxy.

Strategic Leadership

Gen XMZ works together to identify key parts of UUSB that would benefit from having a strong representation of working-age adults in leadership positions. This involves collaborating between folks both inside and outside of Gen XMZ to get a clearer understanding of where the greatest need is at any given time in our community. We work together to see who has the capacity to step into leadership roles and help shift those roles if/when folks’ capacity changes.

Experimenting with New Programs

Gen XMZ has played a critical role in developing several of our program offerings here at UUSB. Typically these events start off as just one of our monthly activities, but if they are well received they eventually move out of our group and find their home as part of another committee. Recent examples of this include the Board Game Socials, the Jammies and Cereal Bar Party, and Meditation group. This is one of the most common ways that working age adults become in charge of programs here at UUSB.

Friendsgiving

This annual tradition typically happens the week before Thanksgiving. It is potluck style and often at the home of one of Gen XMZ’s participants. We coordinate to make sure a range of dietary needs are covered and we get to build community together.

Trivia Night

Each year UUSB hosts a themed trivia night. Gen XMZ typically forms a team for this event so we can all enjoy the night together! Themes in the past have included “Halfway to Halloween,” “Back to the Future: A Decades Themed Trivia Night”, and for April 2026 “And Justice for All”