Everence, Christian Community Development Association enter partnership

Everence^® Financial is deepening its commitment to faith-based community development through a new partnership with the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA).

Everence was announced as a preferred financial wellness partner during CCDA’s National Conference – held Nov. 5-8, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This opportunity will help strengthen the financial well-being in communities across the country.

CCDA is one of the nation’s leading faith-based organizations focused on holistic community development. With nearly 3,000 members across urban, suburban and rural settings, CCDA equips churches, nonprofits and community leaders to connect people in under-resourced communities with resources and partnerships that help them thrive.

In the ever-growing ecosystem that is the CCDA network, the new partnership will help solidify access to financial resources for organizations and communities throughout the country, said Lorenzo Watson, President and CEO of CCDA.

“We know there is this strong desire to see communities change for the better, and to empower people to create that change in sustainable ways,” he said. “It’s our main goal to see our practitioners resourced and supported in a sustainable way. We desire that they live a life that is authentic to the call that God has placed upon them without causing them to burn out or overwhelm their own lives.”

For Everence, the partnership reflects the financial institution’s core value of fostering mutual respect – nurturing meaningful relationships that bring together diverse perspectives and shared dignity.

“In working together, we’re exploring creative solutions to meet real community needs,” said Leonard Dow, Vice President of Community and Church Development and President of Everence Community Investing. “We believe we’re going to learn some things around community development and around how our financial services fit – or don’t fit – so CCDA can help us shape our existing products and services in ways we may not know yet. It's a unique growth opportunity for us – to have an impact, but also to grow.”

The two organizations will work closely to support CCDA members through tailored financial insights and resources, along with additional tools as needed to help nonprofits and congregations meet their goals. Through this work, Everence and CCDA will continue learning together – strengthening communities, expanding access and creating opportunities for lasting impact.

Whether through banking, stewardship education, charitable services, investment management or partnership on community projects, Everence offers a wide range of solutions to help individuals, nonprofits and churches grow, maintain or manage their financial well-being.