Jennifer Watley Maxell shares what she hears from Black ministry leaders about how they think of and relate to philanthropy.
Lake Institute’s Resource Library collects and curates a wide range of resources that can help deepen understanding and practice at the intersection of faith and giving.
Search by keywords or browse by themes to find current research, leadership insights, inspiring stories, discernment guides, theological reflection, and more.
The Faithful Generosity Story Shelf highlights congregations and other religious organizations who have sought to use their assets and resources in creative—and sometimes surprising—ways as an expression of faithful giving.
This Insights explores how your organization’s “digital front door” shapes giving and engagement. Meredith McNabb shares practical guidance on strengthening your website and online presence to support donor trust and accessibility, while Emily Heck expands on this perspective with strategies for improving search engine optimization (SEO) and AI-readiness. Together, they offer actionable ways to ensure your digital presence both reflects your mission and helps people find—and support—your work.
Drawing on recent research from Givelify and philanthropic scholars, David P. King, PhD, examines the gap between religious donors’ desire to give consistently and their actual giving patterns. He explores how congregations and faith leaders can foster generosity by framing giving not simply as a financial transaction, but as a spiritual practice rooted in habit, reflection, and community.
Jennifer Watley Maxell shares what she hears from Black ministry leaders about how they think of and relate to philanthropy.
Rev. William H. Lamar IV expounds on the concept of philanthropy - to do the difficult work of lifting all humans to a life of flourishing.
To make the best use of the Faithful Generosity Story Shelf, we provide both a brief, one-page discussion guide and a comprehensive tool for congregational discussion.
David P. King, PhD shares what recent research reveals about the connection between religious/spiritual practices and giving/volunteering behaviors.
In this introductory video, you'll learn about the purpose and uses of Lake Institute's Faithful Generosity Story Shelf.
This short video highlights one AME congregation’s creative partnership with philanthropy and nonprofits to address environmental injustice, by easing the heat for communities of color and low-income neighborhoods through a “smart surfaces" coalition.
This video provides a short overview of “Four Traditions of Philanthropy,” a framework for reflecting on the good we seek through giving and serving. Use this video with groups to spark conversation about the “why” of philanthropy—and to make room for a range of hopes and values.
Meredith McNabb offers encouragement for religious leaders to talk about legacy giving in congregational settings.
Based on the responses of nearly 3,000 faith leaders and people of faith, this report uncovers key insights into the motivations and community needs driving religious giving and an outlook on future giving.
The congregation of Biltmore United Methodist Church sold their property and is devoting their energy and resources toward responding to Asheville, North Carolina’s most pressing social needs.
Insights is a bi-weekly e-newsletter for the religious community and fundraisers of faith-based organizations that provides: