Date of Conferral
2020
Degree
Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)
School
Management
Advisor
Richard C. Snyder
Abstract
Faith based organizations (FBOs) have failed to engage their millennial members at the same level they have engaged the previous generations. FBO leaders who fail to engage millennials are at risk of not fulfilling their mission. Grounded in the value cocreation model, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore strategies FBO leaders used to engage millennials successfully. The participants comprised 7 leaders from 3 Western U.S. FBOs who have implemented successful strategies to engage millennials. Data were collected from interviews, observations, and online and offline documentation. The data were analyzed using Miller's guide to thematic analysis, and 4 themes emerged: create a sense of belonging and family in welcoming, supportive environments; remain open to innovating practices that keep the church Christ-centered; build relationships that extend beyond the church; and empower and equip people in their faith, in their life, and as leaders. A key recommendation for practitioners is to dedicate staff to understanding millennials in their various life stages single professionals, young newlyweds, and growing families so that practitioners adapt their strategies according to millennials needs as the millennials mature. The implications for positive social change include the potential for FBO leaders to engage millennials, enabling FBOs to extend missions to new communities, increase the longevity of their social ministries, and enhance community well-being through a variety of social programs.
Recommended Citation
Schafer, Jessica Hayley, "Faith Leaders Strategies for Increasing Millennial Engagement" (2020). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 9251.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/9251
