Churches and faith-based organizations have historically played a significant role in addressing social issues in America, including the affordable housing crisis. Their involvement ranges from providing temporary shelter and emergency housing to advocating for policy changes and developing affordable housing projects. Despite their contributions, these organizations are often overlooked in discussions about solutions to the housing crisis. This oversight can be attributed to the secular nature of policy discussions and development debates, which frequently fail to recognize the potential of faith-based organizations to contribute land, resources, and a committed volunteer base to affordable housing initiatives.
In California, where the affordable housing crisis is particularly acute, faith-based organizations and churches have a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role, thanks in part to new legislation that recognizes and supports their potential contributions. For example, recent legislation such as Assembly Bill 1851 and Senate Bill 899 has made it easier for faith-based organizations to develop affordable housing on their properties. These laws aim to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and zoning restrictions, enabling churches and other faith-based entities to more easily convert their underutilized land into housing developments. This legislative support acknowledges the substantial landholdings of many religious organizations in prime locations that could be leveraged to alleviate the housing shortage.
However, to fully engage in the development of affordable housing, churches and faith-based organizations require access to development expertise, financing, and partnerships with government and private developers. Many of these entities possess the will to contribute to solving the housing crisis but lack the technical knowledge and resources to navigate the complex process of real estate development. Providing these organizations with tailored support, such as training in housing development, access to predevelopment financing, and streamlined approval processes, would enable them to contribute more effectively. The engagement of faith-based organizations in affordable housing development not only increases the supply of housing but also ensures that developments are rooted in community values and support networks, offering a holistic approach to residents’ needs. The potential for churches and faith-based organizations to impact the affordable housing landscape in California is significant, given their widespread presence and deep community ties. Recognizing and supporting their role could unlock vast resources for affordable housing, demonstrating a model of collaboration that could inspire similar efforts across the nation.
The Yes In God’s Backyard (YIGBY) Consulting and Coaching Program
Let Spirit Lead, Inc. is proud to introduce the “Yes In God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) Coaching and Consulting Program. The YIGBY Pilot Program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to empower churches and faith-based organizations throughout the Inland Empire region of Southern California to actively participate in the development of affordable housing. As a nonprofit focused on innovation, consulting, and coaching in the affordable housing sector, Let Spirit Lead is uniquely tailored to help address an organization’s critical need for development expertise, financing, and strategic partnerships within the faith-based community.
The YIGBY pilot program will initially encompass 50 churches and faith-based organizations, providing them with essential resources and support to navigate the complexities of real estate development for affordable housing. The program’s membership benefits are structured to ensure participants gain the knowledge, connections, and confidence needed to transform underutilized properties into vibrant housing solutions.
Membership Benefits
-
- Monthly General Meetings: Members will have access to monthly gatherings that offer comprehensive training sessions, the latest news in the local affordable housing landscape, and invaluable networking opportunities. These meetings will also cover updates on relevant legislative changes and insights into new affordable housing projects commencing in the region.
-
- One-on-One Consultation and Coaching: Each member organization will receive a 60-minute personal consultation and/or coaching session with Let Spirit Lead CEO/ED Felicia Brown. These sessions are designed to delve into the specific affordable housing project concepts or needs of the member organization. Additional consultations and coaching sessions will be made available to ensure ongoing support and guidance.
-
- Expert Introductions and Presentations: Program members will benefit from direct introductions to and presentations by industry experts and community development practitioners. These interactions aim to further the advancement and practical implementation of the members’ development plans, ensuring they have access to cutting-edge expertise and advice.
Additional Member Benefits Coming Soon
-
- Access to Predevelopment Financing: Introduction to a fund or financial assistance specifically for predevelopment costs (such as feasibility studies, architectural designs, and legal fees) can significantly lower the barriers to initiating affordable housing projects.
-
- Peer-to-Peer Learning Platforms: Creation of a digital forum or regular peer-to-peer learning sessions where members can share experiences, challenges, and solutions can foster a supportive community atmosphere and enhance collective knowledge.
-
- Legislative Advocacy Training: Training on how to engage in legislative advocacy could empower organizations to support policy changes that facilitate easier development of affordable housing.
-
- Project Showcasing Opportunities: Offering platforms such as annual conferences or digital showcases where member organizations can present their projects to potential investors, donors, and partners can help secure the necessary support and visibility for successful project implementation.
By incorporating these benefits into the YIGBY program, Let Spirit Lead aims to not only equip churches and faith-based organizations with the tools they need for successful affordable housing development but also to create a sustainable ecosystem that continuously supports the growth and diversification of affordable housing solutions in the Inland Empire region. To learn more about how to participate in the YIGBY Pilot Program, please send an email to hello@letspiritlead.org.
Community Development Prep Fellowship Program: This fellowship offers members of the local labor market, particularly those from historically marginalized populations in disinvested communities, a path to entrepreneurship in real estate and affordable housing development by supporting them in securing career-enhancing licenses and providing hands-on experience. Hands-on experience will be gained by assisting with the YIGBY Program, offering much-needed staff capacity to faith-based organizations wanting to build affordable housing. In this way, Let Spirit Lead encourages employer (FBOs) and workforce (fellow) partnerships. Further, fellows will gain experience by serving as project management staff on Let Spirit Lead’s own FutureForward housing developments. Fellows will be paid as independent contractors at a family-sustaining pay rate. They will also be offered a laptop computer, a stipend for health benefits, and an allowance for home office expenses.
FutureForward Housing Development Initiative: This initiative promotes innovative,
eco-friendly housing solutions by focusing on green building methods and climate
resiliency. At this stage, the core of the FutureForward initiative is the development of
small-scale, sustainable housing projects known as “cottage communities” or “pocket
neighborhoods” using modern manufactured and modular tiny homes to create energy
efficiency and cost-effectiveness. These projects will provide affordable homeownership
opportunities to low- to moderate-income community members, particularly those from
marginalized communities.