What is The Lutheran Collaborative?
‍TLC is a network of experienced Lutheran leaders built to elevate what already works and walk alongside organizations as trusted partners. We were built on the idea that together, we can make a bigger impact in our communities, elevate innovations, and share resources and knowledge at a lower cost than market rate. We partner with Lutheran social service organizations through strategic consulting, transition planning, executive search, mergers and acquisitions, and operational strengthening to bring sector expertise and relationship to every engagement.

‍What services does TLC offer?
‍We offer six core services: organizational alignment, executive search, mergers and acquisitions, AI and data architecture, fundraising optimization, and strategic planning. Each can stand alone or work together as part of a broader partnership, depending on what your organization needs most right now.

‍How is TLC different from a consulting firm?
‍We are practitioners offering tacticial solutions that have already worked well in our field. Our team has led Lutheran social service organizations, we understand the culture, the constraints, and the mission from the inside. We also bring a network of vetted national partners for specialized work like executive search, and acquisitions, so you get deep sector understanding at a partner rate that is exclusive for Lutheran Social Services in the U.S.

‍What is organizational alignment, and why does it matter?
‍It means designing your organization to orient strategy, data, and daily work around the people at the center of your mission: your clients and your staff. Many organizations operate with strong values but fragmented systems. We help close that gap, bringing greater clarity, connection, and impact at every level.

‍How does TLC's executive search work?
‍We partner with national search firms experienced in Lutheran and nonprofit leadership to provide tailored search solutions, from candidate sourcing through onboarding and advisory support. TLC remains involved throughout, providing Lutheran sector context, cultural guidance, and relationship support so the right leader is found and set up to succeed.

‍Can TLC help with a merger, acquisition, or affiliation?
‍Yes. We guide organizations through the full spectrum of structural change — from initial exploration through integration — for mergers, acquisitions, affiliations, and partnerships. Our approach prioritizes both operational success and cultural alignment, because in mission-driven organizations, how a transition happens matters for your people and your bottom line.

‍What does TLC mean by AI and data architecture?
‍Most nonprofits collect significant data but struggle to use it. We help you design integrated data environments that reduce fragmentation and turn information into real-time insight — supporting faster, better decisions organized around your programs and the people you serve.

‍Does TLC help with fundraising?
‍Yes. We help organizations strengthen fundraising strategy, focus development efforts, and build sustainable revenue. The result is clearer priorities, stronger funder partnerships, and increased long-term support without sacrificing mission focus along the way.

‍How does TLC approach strategic planning?
‍We help organizations build strategies that live beyond the planning document, connecting vision to daily operations so the plan doesn't get lost in the daily grind. Our approach emphasizes measurable progress and decisions that stay tied to mission.

‍Where can I learn more?
‍We regularly publish articles on LinkedIn exploring the challenges and opportunities facing Lutheran social service leaders, from funding strategy to staff retention to organizational design. Follow us:The Lutheran Collaborative on LinkedInto read our latest articles and join the conversation.