In uncertain times, the Black church shows up.
We lead when systems fall short. We build when others walk away. And when families are worried about how they’ll make it — our churches become the center of stability, connection, and care.
If you’re a ministry leader wondering how to strengthen your community right now, these five strategies will help you build real economic power within your congregation — and do it in a way that aligns with your mission.
1. Start a Financial Literacy Group
Budgeting. Credit repair. Saving. Most people didn’t learn this in school, and it’s holding families back.
A weekly class, a guest speaker, or a workshop after service can make a big difference. Invite financial advisors from your community. Partner with a local bank or credit union. Ask members to share tools that have worked for them.
This is about financial confidence — not just financial knowledge.
2. Support the Entrepreneurs in Your Church
Your congregation already includes creators, problem-solvers, and business-minded members. They need mentorship, not just motivation.
Start small: host a business networking night. Highlight a local entrepreneur each month. Offer help with marketing, legal basics, or budgeting. Partner with a Black business incubator if you have one nearby.
Helping one business grow can open doors for jobs, income, and long-term stability.
3. Offer Job Training and Career Development
Help your members get into careers — not just jobs. That starts with access to training, guidance, and a support system.
You don’t need to create a program from scratch. Partner with trade schools or job placement agencies. Invite someone in to lead a resume workshop. Set up a job board in the lobby or online.
When people have the tools to succeed at work, everything changes at home too.
4. Launch a Community Investment Campaign
Start with one need. One project. One solution your church can lead.
Maybe it’s renovating a space for tutoring. Maybe it’s groceries for 100 families. Maybe it’s a community clean-up. Whatever it is, make it specific — and make it fundable.
People want to give to something they understand. Show them the impact. Connect the dollars to the mission.
5. Build Relationships With Funders and Partners
Offerings matter. But they’re not the only way to support your work.
Reach out to foundations, individuals, and organizations that share your values. Tell them what your church is doing. Be clear about what support would make possible. Follow up and stay in relationship — don’t just make one ask and disappear.
There are people ready to invest in the kind of impact your church is built for. You just need to invite them in.
You Don’t Need a Huge Budget to Start
All five of these strategies are doable. You can start with one.
Watch the video to see how these ideas come to life and how you can start with the resources you already have.
When your church leads with clarity and action, the community follows.
Now’s the time to build something strong — and keep it going.