This study also affirms and builds on a body of research dating back to
the mid-1990s, conducted by Partners, Cnaan, and others, showing that
congregations with older buildings provide a range of subsidies to support
community-serving programs and activities. They offer free or belowmarket rate space for community groups, arts events, social service, and
education programs, as well as thousands of hours of volunteer time, clergy
and staff time, and in-kind and cash support. Affirming previous research,
again, this new study showed that 87% of the beneficiaries of the
community programs and events housed in sacred places are
not members of the religious congregation. In effect, America’s
sacred places are de facto community centers.
Overall, Partners’ research shows that older and historic congregations
contribute to community economic life in a significant way:
• Sacred places support jobs and local businesses.
• The shared use of sacred places subsidizes the work of secular
nonprofits.
• Congregations serve as incubators for both nonprofits and small
businesses, providing a range of resources including low-cost spaces,
enabling these start up organizations to establish themselves and grow.
• Congregations are community hubs, providing a variety of flexible
and affordable space that encourages neighbors to come together to
solve problems, serve and be served, and build social capital.
• Congregations are important supporters of early childhood
education .
• Congregations counsel, support, and make referrals for individuals
and families struggling with a range of issues.
Philadelphia Access Center's Community Outreach Coordinator Lillie Otte distributes materials
at a United Healthcare health fair in South Philadelphia. Courtesy of First Christian Assembly,
Philadelphia, PA.
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