Serving Neighbors Through Congregational Collaborations Initiative
Serving Neighbors Through Congregational Collaborations Initiative supports organizations that unite Christian congregations and local charities to meet community needs and strengthen congregational life.
Funder: Lilly Endowment
Due Dates: January 19, 2027 (Concept papers) | July 19, 2027 (Implementation proposals)
Funding Amounts: Planning grants up to $50,000; implementation grants up to $5 million for up to four years
Summary: Supports organizations that help Christian congregations and local charities collaborate to meet community needs and strengthen congregational life.
Key Information: Individual congregations and local charities seeking support for their own programs cannot apply.
Description
Lilly Endowment’s Serving Neighbors initiative supports programs that bring Christian congregations and charitable organizations together to address needs identified in their local communities. Partners might work on human and social needs, opportunities for children and youth, arts and culture, or outdoor recreation. The initiative also aims to deepen faith through acts of care for neighbors and strengthen the vitality of congregations.
Rather than fund individual local projects directly, the initiative seeks organizations that can bring groups of congregations and community organizations together. Their programs should help partners understand local priorities, build relationships, jointly design and launch collaborative efforts, evaluate their work, and seek ways to sustain successful collaborations. Funding begins with concept papers and planning grants; selected organizations may then seek implementation grants.
