RESTORE Online Lead Trainer Certification is for small economic development organizations and local churches that want to start church-based savings groups.
There are 3 parts, about 12 months total. Part 1: Church Facilitator Online Training, 6 weeks (~3 hrs/wk). Part 2: Form, train, and support a savings group (1 cycle, 9-12 months). Part 3: 3-week (4 hrs/wk) online Lead Trainer training, only after completing part 1 and a full cycle.
Online delivery significantly reduces cost. Individual: $425. Multiple participants from a church or organization: $375 per participant. Scholarships are available \u2014 reach out via the contact page.
Training is online and accessible anytime. Watch videos and complete assignments on the platform, plus weekly video calls with your coach and other leaders nationwide. Coaching calls are assigned to fit your time zone and schedule.
Traditional savings groups focus on economic alleviation only; RESTORE treats the materially poor as image-bearers deserving dignified, holistic engagement. Groups create opportunities for learning together, spiritual growth, and social connection.
Thousands of churches and nonprofits have started RESTORE savings-group ministries. Coaches provide ongoing support if you hit challenges.
See a curriculum sample. RESTORE covers roughly 18 topics: Overview of the RESTORE process; Church leadership orientation; 4 Key relationships; Typical savings group; Prepare to open a savings group; Benefits of savings groups; House of Principles; Forming a group and rules; Loans and emergency fund; Ledgers & calculations; Leadership selection; Practice facilitation; The savings meeting process; Record keeping; Group meeting with loans; Leadership roles; End of cycle; Testing what we learned; and a Reflection exercise.
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