Since 2013, the Executive Certificate in Religious Fundraising (ECRF) has been a cornerstone educational program of Lake Institute on Faith & Giving.

Designed for leaders in religious communities and fundraisers of faith-based organizations, ECRF provides research, practical tools, and customized training to address the unique cultural, organizational, and philanthropic dynamics of faith and fundraising. 

For over a decade, participants have reimagined generosity, moving beyond a transactional approach to build meaningful and sustainable relationships with donors and their communities. 

In early 2026, an ECRF in-person course was held in partnership with the NC Rural Center, bringing together 36 pastoral leaders committed to strengthening their ministries. 

Co-led by Dr. Anthony Riley, Lake Institute Adjunct Faculty, he reflects that “NC Rural ECRF activated the visionary leadership of pastoral catalysts to foster generosity, broaden impact, increase engagement and reform the colonized and transactional ways our culture relates to money.” 

As Dr. Riley mentioned, this course enables participants to help donors feel motivated by spiritual and religious values when generously giving. 

Rev. Hamid H. Karmara, M. Ed, NC Rural Center, echoed this impact and emphasized the long-term value of the program. Rev. Karmara said, “This training is a powerful step forward for our Connect Church teams. It challenged them to think beyond the lifespan of an initial grant and to reimagine what long-term sustainability can look like. By equipping them with the tools and confidence to cultivate generous donors, it empowered them to build lasting support for their mission. The result is not just stronger fundraising, but stronger, more resilient ministries prepared to grow and thrive well into the future.” 

ECRF participants don’t just complete the program; they leave with a new perspective on generosity and fundraising, understand how to foster a stronger connection with their ministry, and learn how to sustain donor relationships. 

Whether you’re leading a congregation or supporting a faith-based organization, ECRF is the perfect opportunity to deepen your understanding of faith-based fundraising and sustainability. 

Learn more about our upcoming courses (online and in-person) here.