September is the emphasis month for the Alma Hunt Offering for Virginia Missions, though churches and individuals may contribute at any time during the year. The offering provides funding for all Woman’s Missionary Union of Virginia (WMUV) missions and ministries and makes possible other BGAV special ministries, outreach projects, and initiatives not funded through regular streams of giving. 

Since 1976, this offering has been a joint venture of WMUV and BGAV. The annual goal and allocation of funds are determined together by WMUV’s executive director/treasurer and BGAV’s executive director and are approved by their respective boards.

“This important offering allows us to identify areas of ministry outreach opportunities,” explained Valerie Carter Smith, WMUV’s executive director/treasurer. “Together we feed hungry people, respond to disasters, mobilize churches for hands-on involvement, sponsor events, and more! This year, we granted $10,000 from the offering to support local church ministries. One church sponsored a mental health conference, and many more expanded their community food pantry ministries.”

This annual offering for Virginia missions is named for Alma Hunt (1909–2008), a native Virginian who was known worldwide for her missions service and her unswerving dedication to the cause of Christ.  

“I knew her as Miss Alma, and many of us throughout Virginia did too! The essence of a name can bring people together for a cause,” Valerie reflected.  “The name Alma Hunt brings Virginia Baptists together to meet needs and share Christ in Virginia and beyond. Miss Alma was a courageous woman who championed the cause of missions, and she was not afraid to stand courageously for doing things in new ways. She even shocked those in attendance at a traditional WMU meeting of old when she showed up with open-toe sandals,” she laughed.

WMUV and BGAV invite you to give to the Alma Hunt Offering—joining your gifts with those of many other Virginia Baptists—united in spirit and intent with one purpose: sharing the love of Christ across the Commonwealth and with the whole world.

For more information and to give, visit almahunt.org or contact Sheryl Smith at ssmith@wmuv.org.  

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