At Lake Institute, we see faith communities as more than places of worship. They are hubs of care, connection, and generosity in their neighborhoods, and often the first to notice when a neighbor is in need. That’s why we’re glad to share news of three new competitive grant initiatives from the Lilly Endowment. Each one invests in how people of faith show up for others, whether down the street or on a college campus. 

Here’s a quick look at each and who should consider applying: 

Serving Neighbors Through Congregational Collaborations Initiative 

Grants of up to $5 million each 

Serving Neighbors has two complementary aims: to improve quality of life for individuals and families by encouraging stronger collaborations between Christian congregations and local charitable organizations, such as human service agencies, youth-serving groups, arts organizations, neighborhood associations, and parks; and to deepen faith and congregational vitality by giving Christians opportunities to practice their faith through acts of love and care for their neighbors. 

Who should apply: Organizations that work with and across many congregations, including national and regional denominational agencies, faith-based service organizations, church associations and networks, theological schools, church-related colleges and universities, and community development organizations experienced in partnering with churches. Individual congregations are the heart of this work, but they will most likely take part through one of these organizations rather than apply directly. The process begins with a concept paper; selected organizations receive planning grants and are then invited to propose implementation projects of up to four years. 

National Initiative to Strengthen Chaplaincies at Colleges and Universities 

Grants of up to $2.5 million each 

Campus leaders are reporting a meaningful rise in students taking part in worship and religious life. This initiative helps schools assess how well their current ministries serve students, then act on what they learn to strengthen religious life on campus. 

Who should apply: Accredited, four-year colleges and universities in the U.S. with a chaplaincy or office of religious life on their own campus. 

National Initiative to Strengthen Christian Campus Ministries at Colleges and Universities 

Grants of up to $7.5 million each 

This initiative helps organizations strengthen the effectiveness and capacity of the local Christian campus ministries in their networks, especially those serving students at public and secular private colleges. Grantees may use part of their award to create or grow a pool of funds that provides financial support to local campus ministries. 

Who should apply: National and regional denominational agencies, campus ministry parachurch organizations, and collegiate ministry associations that support multiple local campus ministries. A single campus ministry would typically benefit through its network rather than apply on its own.