As nonprofit leaders seek ways to expand capacity and deepen community connections; church partnerships deserve renewed attention.
Across Canada, faith communities steward buildings that anchor neighbourhoods and serve as gathering places through moments of joy, loss, and transition. These spaces often sit at the heart of community life, yet many nonprofits overlook them as potential partners.
After nearly twenty years of working in fundraising and community development, I’ve seen what becomes possible when charities partner with, or operate alongside, churches. While my direct experience has been within Christian communities, I believe similar opportunities exist across many faith traditions.
As nonprofit leaders seek ways to strengthen local impact, expand capacity, and deepen community connections, church partnerships deserve renewed attention.
The Halo Effect: More than a place of worship
Research from Cardus, the Flourishing Congregations Institute, and others highlights what is known as the Halo Effect — the measurable public good generated by church communities through volunteerism, community programs, outreach, and civic engagement.
Studies have found that for every dollar spent by an urban religious congregation in Canada, communities receive an estimated $3.32 in measurable social benefit. In rural communities, that figure rises to more than $5.00. Churches contribute through food security initiatives, youth development, seniors’ outreach, arts programming, crisis response, and countless other community supports.
For nonprofits, the Halo Effect points to an important reality: churches are often already contributing to the same community outcomes many charities are working to achieve.
Three assets churches bring to community partnerships
1. Space that supports community impact
Many church buildings already contain assets that nonprofits need: gathering spaces, commercial kitchens, meeting rooms, accessibility features, parking, and established neighbourhood presence. These facilities can often support community meals, youth programs, newcomer initiatives, public education events, and support groups at a fraction of the cost of commercial rentals.
Just as importantly, churches are often familiar landmarks. For many people, that sense of place can reduce barriers to participation and create a welcoming entry point into community services.
One example involved a seniors’ organization searching for a venue to host a film screening. Their requirements were straightforward: the space needed to be accessible, located near bus routes, and affordable. A local church met all those needs.
What surprised them was everything that came with the space. Volunteers helped arrange tables and chairs, prepared food, and welcomed guests. The church also promoted the event in its e-newsletter for several weeks, helping to raise awareness and attract attendees. On the day of the screening, many members of the congregation joined the audience, creating new connections between the organization and the broader community.
The church offered more than a building; it became a partner in creating a successful community event.
2. Volunteers rooted in service
Many faith communities include people who are motivated by service and committed to contributing to the common good. Within congregations, nonprofits may find retired professionals, caregivers, skilled tradespeople, administrators, and experienced volunteers who understand the value of showing up consistently. When volunteer opportunities align with a shared purpose, relationships deepen, trust grows, and communities benefit.
3. Connections to philanthropy
For fundraisers, one of the most overlooked aspects of church partnerships may be their connection to philanthropy.
Research consistently shows that individuals involved in faith communities are more likely to give charitably, not only to religious organizations but to many causes they care about. Many support healthcare, social services, international development, education, and community-based organizations.
Yet many faith communities have had little exposure to the philanthropic networks, advisors, and giving tools that increasingly influence charitable giving in Canada.
As generosity educator Paul Nazareth, MFA-P observes, donor-advised fund managers rarely raise religious giving unless donors initiate the conversation. At the same time, many church members do not think of their congregation as a charitable organization when discussing philanthropy with their advisors. With donor-advised funds projected to grow significantly over the coming decade, Nazareth raises an important question: will churches and faith-based organizations be equipped to participate in these conversations?
This presents an opportunity for nonprofits to build relationships rooted in trust, shared purpose, and community impact. The goal is not simply accessing new funding streams. It is creating partnerships that strengthen local capacity and help communities navigate philanthropic systems more effectively.
Important considerations before partnering
Church partnerships can create meaningful community impact, but thoughtful engagement is essential.
Community comfort: Some individuals may feel uncomfortable accessing services in church settings because of previous experiences with religion. Community consultation should always inform decisions about location and programming.
Values alignment: Not all churches share the same commitments around inclusion and equity. Nonprofits should ensure that prospective partners align with their values and the needs of the communities they serve.
Colonial history and cultural safety:In Canada, Christianity’s role in colonialism and residential schools remains a living legacy. While many denominations are actively engaging in reconciliation efforts, nonprofits must continue prioritizing cultural safety and respectful relationships.
Shared leadership: Successful partnerships require mutual respect. Churches and nonprofits each bring valuable assets and expertise. The strongest collaborations emerge when both partners are prepared to listen, learn, and share leadership.
Before entering a partnership, consider:
- Have you spoken with the people you serve about whether a church setting would work for them?
- Do the church’s values and practices align with your organization’s commitments and the needs of your community?
- Would the people you serve feel comfortable participating in programs offered in this space?
- Are both organizations prepared to collaborate as equal partners and adapt as community needs change?
If significant uncertainty remains after these conversations, the partnership may not be the right fit.
A partnership that can multiply good
When alignment is strong and accountability is shared, church partnerships can create meaningful community impact. Churches often bring space, volunteers, community trust, and local relationships. Nonprofits contribute professional expertise, program design, fundraising capacity, and service delivery infrastructure. Together, these assets can strengthen neighbourhood-based care and help communities respond more effectively to local priorities.
For nonprofit professionals, it’s worth taking a fresh look at the church or faith community down the street — not as a relic of the past, but as a potential partner for impact.
Start with a conversation. Ask questions. Listen well.
Whether the result is shared space, new volunteers, stronger community connections, or long-term collaboration, these partnerships can become powerful catalysts for service, sustainability, and community wellbeing.
Gillian Doucet Campbell, MA, CFRE, is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Impact Generosity. With more than 15 years of fundraising experience across social justice, higher education, grassroots, international development, and faith-based organizations, she helps small and mid-sized nonprofit teams overcome fundraising challenges and build sustainable growth through strategic insight and hands-on execution.
