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By Jeff Ulman
October 16, 2024

Builders for Christ, part of the larger Kingdom Workers organization, has had the privilege of working alongside Catalyst Construction on numerous projects. Our relationship with Catalyst spans nearly two decades, and during this time, we’ve formed a partnership that’s not just professional but mission-driven. Builders for Christ operates with volunteers—many of them retired—who dedicate their time and skills to help churches and organizations build and renovate facilities, spreading the word of God through their construction expertise. The work is often complex, and Catalyst has proven to be an invaluable partner in making these projects successful.

A Natural Partnership

Builders for Christ’s collaboration with Catalyst began as a natural fit. Matt Burow and Catalyst have deep roots in church construction, particularly within the Lutheran community, where we focus much of our efforts. Over the years, Matt and his team have consistently reached out to us with opportunities, trusting us to bring in our volunteer workforce to assist with their projects. Our volunteers, many of whom are retired, and passionate about giving back, might not be the first group you think of when imagining a bustling construction site. However, Catalyst has always embraced our team without hesitation, welcoming the unique dynamic we bring.

One of the remarkable aspects of working with Catalyst is their understanding and acceptance of our volunteer workforce. It would be easy for them to be apprehensive when a group of veteran volunteers shows up on site. But instead, Catalyst views Builders for Christ as partners, recognizing that what we may lack in youthful looking workforce, we more than make up for in numbers, skill, experience, and dedication. The superintendents on Catalyst’s projects have always been gracious, accommodating, and incredibly supportive of our team, which speaks volumes about their approach to collaboration and their commitment to community-driven construction.

A Commitment to Quality

One thing that consistently stands out in our partnership with Catalyst is their commitment to quality. Catalyst’s high standards are evident in every project they undertake. It’s inspiring to work with a company that holds itself to such a high level of craftsmanship. This focus on quality aligns perfectly with our mission at Builders for Christ, and it’s something we deeply respect about Catalyst.

Prioritizing Safety Together

Catalyst’s superintendents and project managers are not only experts in their field but also understand the nuances of working with a volunteer-based workforce. The team has daily meetings to guarantee safety protocols are being followed and that everyone on site—whether a professional contractor or a volunteer—understands the expectations for the day. Safety is paramount, and Builders for Christ ensures that our volunteers are equipped with the necessary certifications and training, such as aerial lift and forklift certifications. In fact, our volunteers often go above and beyond safety requirements, ensuring that every aspect of the job is done with care and precision.

A Partnership Built on Trust

What sets Catalyst apart is their trust in our volunteer workforce. While many contractors approach volunteers with caution due to concerns about safety, liability, or delays, Catalyst has always embraced our contributions, and that trust has only deepened over the years. Catalyst’s superintendents regularly join our volunteers for daily devotion and lunch, fostering camaraderie and building relationships that go beyond the job site. This level of involvement highlights their commitment to our shared mission and underscores the genuine connection they have with our team, setting them apart from other construction companies. Our collaboration is more than a transactional partnership—it’s rooted in mutual respect and a shared commitment to serving the community, with Catalyst’s superintendents building strong relationships and accommodating our skilled volunteers with flexibility and teamwork.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to work together, I’m excited about the future of our partnership with Catalyst. Whether we’re building a new church or renovating a facility, Catalyst has always been there, supporting us every step of the way. Builders for Christ has worked with many different contractors, but Catalyst stands out as a company that not only delivers exceptional results but also genuinely cares about the people they work with. Their commitment to quality, safety, and collaboration makes them a unique and invaluable partner in our mission to spread the word of God through construction.

Working with Catalyst Construction is not just about building structures; it’s about building relationships, communities, and a shared vision for the future. Together, we’re making a difference, one project at a time.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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Jeff Ulman
Builders For Christ is our longest-running program at Kingdom Workers. Jeff Ulman encourages dedication, selflessness, and passion within his volunteers doing the work of God’s kingdom here on earth.