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430: Grit and Grace: Building a Thriving Mission Culture That Lasts

Best Christian Workplaces : February, 17 2025

Sustainable Strategy Fantastic Teams Missions Healthy Communication Inspirational Leadership

430: Grit and Grace: Building a Thriving Mission Culture That Lasts

What does it take to lead a ministry that transforms lives while navigating the challenges of high-demand leadership? In this episode, Scott Chin, president of Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission, shares how grit and hope fuel lasting change—for both those overcoming homelessness and the teams that serve them.

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In this episode:

Transforming Lives Through Hope and Grit

• Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission provides shelter and a year-long recovery program to help individuals transition out of homelessness. (03:39)

• The combination of hope in Jesus and perseverance leads to lasting transformation. (04:31)

• Many staff members, including two VPs, are former program participants, showcasing the impact of the mission’s work. (05:08)

Changing Needs and Effective Recovery Strategies

• The rise of fentanyl has shifted some of the presenting issues of homelessness, but the core approach—addressing root causes—remains unchanged. (05:43)

• The mission’s year-long recovery program focuses on deep transformation rather than just immediate needs like housing and jobs. (06:15)

• The Christ-centered approach is the key differentiator, providing a foundation for lasting change. (06:36)

Using Employee Engagement Surveys for Organizational Health

• Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission has used the Best Christian Workplaces Employee Engagement Survey for five years, making it part of their DNA. (06:55)

• Insights from the survey inform strategic planning, helping the organization focus on areas that need improvement. (07:43)

• The survey provides clarity on what’s working and what needs attention, ensuring continuous organizational growth. (07:53)

Fostering Christian Community and Connection

• The mission emphasizes three key strategies to nurture a strong Christian community: (09:05)

1. Being together – Monthly chapel services and shared meals foster in-person connection across nine locations. (09:12)

2. Effective communication – Regular emails, newsletters, and town halls ensure clarity and alignment. (09:47)

3. Keeping Christ at the center – The organization starts each year with a day of prayer to unify staff and set the spiritual tone. (10:27)

Preventing Burnout and Supporting Staff Well-being

• Time away – Staff receive four weeks of vacation to encourage rest and renewal. (12:29)

• Investing in managers – A manager’s essentials training program equips leaders to support their teams effectively. (12:50)

• Specialized training – Targeted training addresses key issues like burnout prevention, based on staff feedback. (13:10)

Developing Strong Leadership to Sustain Impact

• The mission’s manager essentials training includes eight modules designed to strengthen leadership effectiveness. (13:41)

• A second phase of training is being developed based on feedback from staff and managers. (14:05)

• Leaders must focus on their own renewal and spiritual well-being to effectively serve others. (14:46)

Personal Practices for Consistency & Well-being

• Taking Sabbath: Sets aside 24 hours each weekend for rest, avoiding work, and spending time with family and friends to refuel. (15:16)

• Regular Prayer Walks: A daily habit that combines exercise, fresh air, and praying for others out loud—beneficial for both physical and spiritual well-being. (15:35)

• Seeking Wise Counsel: Maintains a network of trusted coaches and advisers to prevent isolation in leadership and share the weight of responsibility. (15:59)

Intentional Leadership & Care

• Self-care Awareness: Leaders must recognize if they are operating from a full or empty tank, as their ability to serve others depends on their well-being. (18:08)

• Caring for Others: Encourages intentional care for employees—praying for them by name, acknowledging their contributions, and recognizing when they are struggling. (18:22)

• Impact on Organizational Culture: When employees feel cared for, they are better equipped to serve others effectively, creating a culture of compassion and support. (18:53)