Faith, Culture and the Right Fit: Foundry UMC’s Staffing Journey with Contact 1
Mission-driven organizations like Foundry UMC understand a fundamental truth: their impact depends on having the right people in place. With multiple divisions serving diverse community needs, they couldn’t afford to compromise on talent—or waste precious time on lengthy hiring processes. They needed more than just qualified candidates; they needed people who would amplify their purpose.
The Challenge: Time and Cultural Fit
As an HR department of one, Reverend Lani Willbanks faced a significant challenge when she joined Foundry UMC in 2018. She had to manage multiple divisions across the large facility while also handling matters of the ministry. The hiring process consumed hours of posting, screening, and interviewing—valuable time that could be spent supporting their mission. Rev. Lani needed a partner who could effectively streamline their hiring process.
“The hiring landscape has changed dramatically over the last six to seven years,” Rev. Lani notes. “We needed a partner who could not only save us time but also truly understand our highly relational culture.”
The Contact 1 Difference: Understanding That Goes Deeper
What sets Contact 1 apart? For Foundry UMC, it was our ability to go beyond traditional staffing services:
- Our deep understanding of faith-based organizational culture
- Our boutique-style attention to detail
- Our transparent conversations about market conditions and fair wages
- Our nohigh-pressure sales tactics
- Our commitment to building lasting relationships
With these traits and our comprehension of their organization, Contact 1 has successfully placed numerous key roles over the course of our partnership, including:
- Front Desk Coordinator
- Executive Assistant to the Senior Pastor
- Hospitality Coordinators
- Operations Manager
Impact: Beyond Traditional Staffing
The partnership between Foundry UMC and Contact 1 demonstrates the power of aligned values and genuine understanding. When staffing changes arise, Contact 1 manages transitions seamlessly, ensuring continuous operations while maintaining the organization’s cultural integrity.
“As a mission-focused organization that values DEI-owned businesses, we appreciate the care the team at Contact 1 puts forth in finding the right people for our team,” shares Rev. Lani. “Their specialized care and relational approach align perfectly with our values. As an organization committed to supporting women-owned businesses, we’re proud to partner with Contact 1.”
Looking Forward: A Partnership Built to Last
For organizations like Foundry UMC, success isn’t just about filling positions—it’s about finding people who share their mission and values. Contact 1 continues to serve as a trusted partner, understanding that every placement impacts the organization’s ability to serve its community effectively.
Ready to transform your hiring process? Let Contact 1 help you build a team that aligns with your mission and values. Schedule a conversation today →
