Romanita Hairston, CEO of the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, opens up in an interview with David P. King, Ph.D., of Lake Institute on Faith & Giving about how faith, philanthropy, and civic life come together to spark meaningful change. With her experience across nonprofit, corporate, and philanthropic sectors, Romanita shares how philanthropy can bring people together, tackle urgent societal needs, and create a more vibrant, flourishing world. Her reflections will inspire you to think differently about how collaboration and innovation can come to life through the lens of faith.

Rev. Jamar A. Boyd II highlights the critical role of Black churches as philanthropic intermediaries, calling for a deeper partnership with these institutions. Tasha Gibson reflects on the Philanthropy and the Black Church project, which has been working for decades to connect Black faith organizations with the philanthropic sector. Together, these insights show why Black churches and grassroots groups must be seen as essential allies in justice-driven philanthropy.

What does the future hold for the intersection of faith and giving in 2025? David P. King, Ph.D., shares how Lake Institute is exploring exciting research and launching new resources to explore what motivates faith-inspired giving. We also welcome Erica Dollhopf as Lake’s first Associate Director of Research, who shares her passion for advancing our understanding of faith-inspired generosity and leading impactful projects in the year ahead.

Meredith McNabb reflects on the importance of end-of-year giving and how it connects to the spiritual traditions of generosity. Danielle Segal explores the symbolism of light in Chanukah, highlighting the Shammash candle as a metaphor for how generosity can multiply and spread. Together, McNabb and Segal offer meaningful perspectives on generosity during this season.

What can secular philanthropy learn from faith-inspired funders? David P. King and Neill Coleman explore how values rooted in faith shape a deeply relational and human-centered approach to giving, offering lessons that transcend traditional boundaries. From mapping the unique characteristics of faith-based organizations to examining the distinctive "why," "what," and "how" of faith-inspired philanthropy, this issue highlights the power of generosity guided by spiritual discernment and human connection.

Neill Coleman shares what secular philanthropy can learn from faith-inspired funders.

Scottsville Church of Christ stepped forward, without hesitation, to run a food distribution program when an urgent need arose in their community.

Reeman Christian Reformed Church in Fremont, MI., opened Wellspring Adult Day Care in 2016 to help those who need a place to go during the day while giving their caregivers a much-needed break.

At the recent Lake Institute Network of Emerging Scholars (LINES) gathering, 17 scholars, including 11 in the early stages of their careers, came together to explore the intersections of faith and philanthropy. Discover how emerging scholars such as Dr. Shaunesse’ Jacobs Plaisimond, Dr. Megan Pontes, and Dr. Adina Bankier-Karp expanded their research agendas, paving the way for innovative contributions to the evolving field of faith and giving, reflecting Dr. Allison Youatt Schnable's emphasis on the importance of coherent conversations among diverse researchers.

Explore compelling discussions on nurturing generosity within Hispanic/Latinx communities with contributions from Dr. Carlos W. Perkins and Rev. Dr. Jessica Lugo. Dr. Perkins shares key findings from a recent Lake Institute gathering that examined how cultural and familial values shape philanthropic behaviors. In an expanded perspective, Rev. Dr. Lugo reflects on resilience, hope, and the powerful impact of generosity within the Hispanic/Latinx community, offering valuable insights into building a culture of giving rooted in shared traditions and values.