Sustainability of the Child and Youth Ministry Among Church Partnerships for Compassion International Uganda

Abstract

Church partnerships play a crucial role in sustaining child and youth ministries in Uganda. This study examined the sustainability of child and youth ministry among church partnerships, focusing on Compassion International Uganda. The objectives were to: (i) evaluate the impact of church partnerships on child and youth ministry outcomes, (ii) assess factors affecting partnership sustainability, (iii) analyze measures to enhance sustainability, and (iv) investigate beneficiary perceptions of these partnerships. A mixed-methods research approach was used, involving surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. The study included 7 staff and 102 church leaders and beneficiaries. Findings revealed that church partnerships significantly improved child and youth ministry outcomes. Key activities included continuous training (45.4%), church ownership of the vision (22.2%), and capacity building (15%). Most respondents (84.9%) rated the impact as high, with educational partnerships (45.4%) enhancing academic performance despite resource challenges. However, sustainability was hindered by financial constraints (40.4%), insufficient training (25.3%), poor communication (15.2%), limited community involvement (10.1%), and weak leadership (9%). To enhance sustainability, churches prioritized child ministry (22.1%), invested in staff growth (19%), and generated sustainable income (18.9%). Strong leadership (15%) and strategies such as local resource mobilization and community empowerment were recommended to improve effectiveness and reduce donor dependency. Beneficiaries viewed partnerships positively, with 51% rating them as “very effective” and 43.4% as “effective,” citing empowerment through skills development and improved livelihoods. Concerns included the need for better church leader training and financial management. The study concluded that church partnerships significantly enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of child and youth ministry programs. Recommendations included strengthening training, promoting church ownership, expanding economic initiatives, and improving financial management to ensure long-term sustainability and greater community impact.