Lake Institute on Faith and Giving
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.
Kinder Academy boasts of “quality childcare that provides a structured preschool program with the convenience of daycare hours.” The childcare center at Bustleton UMC is the jewel in Kinder Care’s crown, made possible with the space and support offered by the congregation.
While the Church of the Advocate's ample campus and cavernous interior support Art Sanctuary’s practical needs for storage, rehearsal, and performance space, the church’s activist history is also a source of heady inspiration.
When a Muslim group needed a place for youth religious education, it began meeting at a synagogue. This arrangement led to mutual curiosity and real friendship.
In 2004, the Muslim Center of Detroit partnered with physicians from the Islamic Association of Greater Detroit to open a free health clinic on the second floor of the prominent local mosque.
This resource tells the story of six Cooperative Baptist Fellowship partner churches and the creative ways they are using their facilities and property.
David King highlights the importance of understanding context when discussing philanthropy.
Don’t let confusion about taxes stop you from doing something new, say two experts in faith-based social enterprise.
An in-depth research presentation by Dave Kresta, PhD that examines the many ways religious spaces can be reimagined to serve modern communities.
Where to Start is a tool to help faith leaders consider what to do when they don't know what to do about resources.
Meredith McNabb addresses the opportunities and challenges congregational leaders face when preaching about money.
Insights is a bi-weekly e-newsletter for the religious community and fundraisers of faith-based organizations that provides: