Bringing Faith Back into the Picture

For the last year, I have been a student at Regis University in the Masters of Nonprofit Management program. I have gained more knowledge about nonprofits in the 40 weeks I have been a student than the over 4 years which I have worked in the nonprofit world but something is missing. Where is the class about reaching into the faith-based communities?

As someone who has worked for faith-based organizations for four years, I am surrounded by people who join together because of what they believe. These people give money to the organizations because of a religious connection. Many non-profit organizations are based on religious values or traditions but as a nonprofit sector, we do not do a good job reaching out to the faith-based leaders for support. Below are some areas where faith-based organizations could help your own organization.

Volunteers:
Imagine the number of volunteers your organization could get by reaching out to a synagogue or church. Yes, there are some organizations who have mastered reaching out to the faith-based organizations but many could improve. Recently, the synagogue I work at had over 70 volunteers help out with the 9HealthFair. The 9 Health Fair has found a way to break into the community and offer services where people are (churches, colleges, synagogues, etc.) Many of these people would not have volunteered on their own but did so because of the place where they worship.

Board Members:
Imagine if you could find one board member from each faith. Many churches and synagogues have boards with over 20 people and then they have committees which include another 20-40 people. Imagine if at the next board meeting for a synagogue, you came and talked about the work your organization was doing and that you were looking for someone from the synagogue board to join your board. You would be building a continuing relationship with the synagogue/church and they would know more about your organization.

Resources:
Faith-based organizations have many resources which can benefit your organization. They have people who have money and many of them like to give (in the Orthodox Jewish community, over 90% give money). These organizations also have people in every line of work who are always looking for ways to give back to the community. Utilize their skills by building a relationship with the rabbis, priests and lay leaders of these organizations. Many of these organizations also have space which can be rented or used for a lecture or discussion led by your organization.

Rather than avoiding the topic of religion for fear of being politically correct, I wish nonprofit professionals and educators would figure out a way to break into the faith-based communities. Lets push the boundaries and explore the volunteers, board members and resources we could gain from faith-based organizations.

Note: All new posts will now be written Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Special edition posts will be show up throughout the year.