Faith Based Housing & Redevelopment Resources
These organizations walk alongside congregations discerning how to use church land and buildings to serve their communities, often through affordable housing or other mission-centered redevelopment.
Whether you're curious about what's possible or looking for partners to guide the process, these trusted faith-based groups offer educational tools, cohort models, funding support, and spiritual grounding for the journey.
Bricks and Mortals (NYC)
Bricks and Mortals is a network for religious leaders navigating property transition. They offer case studies from across the U.S., host events focused on faith-based affordable housing, and advocate for creative, community-minded redevelopment. A great source of inspiration and practical examples.
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Trinity Wall Street – Mission Real Estate
Trinity supports Episcopal congregations in transforming church land for community impact. They offer feasibility grants, development funding, and strategic advising. Their online conference and Episcopal expertise make them a strong partner for parishes ready to pursue mission-driven real estate.
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Ormond Center (Duke Divinity School)
The Ormond Center helps churches explore how their property can reflect God’s love through community renewal. Their Church and Community Placemaking Lab blends theology, community design, and practical tools—offered both in-person and online. Ideal for those seeking thoughtful reflection alongside practical learning.
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Partners for Sacred Places
Partners supports congregations, especially historic ones, looking to preserve and repurpose their sacred spaces. They offer grants for feasibility studies, consulting services, and historic preservation, especially in partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. A valuable partner for aging or architecturally significant churches.
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Notre Dame Church Properties Initiative
CPI helps churches understand the full picture of faith-based property use. Based at the University of Notre Dame, they provide research, case studies, and national examples of redevelopment. Their work is ideal for congregations who want to learn from others and consider long-term property stewardship strategies.
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Rooted Good
Rooted Good offers tools to help congregations reimagine how their assets can serve the common good. Their Good Futures Accelerator is a self-guided course that walks churches through how to rent, develop, or sell property. They also co-published Gone for Good?, a practical guide for transitioning church properties.
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Sympara
Sympara specializes in helping faith communities discern how to use their property faithfully and effectively. They work closely with congregations to explore whether housing development aligns with their mission, often before any planning or development begins. Ideal for churches at the earliest stage of exploration.
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Enterprise Community Development
Enterprise is a national leader in affordable housing and community development. Their faith-based cohort program brings together congregations to explore how to turn property into mission-driven housing. They also offer guides, policy updates, and financing options through their Community Development Financial Institution. Ideal for churches ready to take next steps or learn from others in similar discernment.
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