Once a month, faithful members of the Church fast, typically skipping two meals. The cost of the meals (or more if the individual can afford it) is given to care for the poor. Because of this practice, the Utah government welfare spending is very low. Members of other faiths also benefit through LDS charity work.
(Accurate as of 2006.)
The LDS Church has sponsored Boy Scout troops since 1913. 23% of all scout troops in the U.S. are LDS-sponsored.
(Accurate as of 2006.)
Most LDS ecclesiastical leaders work voluntarily without pay. The General Authorities, who work for the Church full-time, are offered a modest living allowance because their duties prevent them from taking on secular employment. Much of the janitorial staff is paid, as well as Church auditors and those in other non-ecclesiastical positions.
(Accurate as of 2006.)
The Church encourages its members to volunteer in their communities. Among states, Utah has the highest rate of volunteerismó48 percent. “It would seem that the prevalence of the faith-based (Mormon) community in Utah contributes to it being number one.” According to Mormon scriptures, “…men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness” (Doctrine and Covenants 58:27).
(Accurate as of 2006.)