Building Momentum Through Communication: Best Practices for Reporting Construction Progress

Building momentum during a construction project isn’t just about visible progress; it’s about keeping your community engaged and inspired every step of the way.

These projects are deeply personal. They reflect faith, vision, and commitment. In my experience, one of the most powerful tools you have throughout this journey is communication.

When done well, communication doesn’t just inform, it builds momentum, instills confidence, and strengthens generosity.

At Catalyst Construction, we work with ministry leaders every day who are navigating this complex process.

Many ask the same question…

“What’s the best way to keep our community engaged and informed as we move through our project?”

7 Ways to Communicate and Sustain Momentum During Construction

Strong construction communication is more than a project update.

It is the foundation for trust, momentum, and generosity. By keeping people informed in meaningful ways, leaders can ensure the community feels connected and invested throughout the entire process.

Here are a few best practices I’ve seen work time and time again.

1. Start Early and Stay Consistent

During the early design and fundraising phases, when visible progress is limited, congregations need reassurance that the project is moving forward. Consistent communication during these quieter moments builds trust and maintains momentum.

Brief updates, issued every few weeks, can be highly effective. For example:

• Share your current stage in the design process.
• Provide updates on fundraising milestones.
• Highlight a personal story from a giver or volunteer.

Communication doesn’t have to be lengthy or formal; it could be a blog post, a brief email, or a quick website update. The key is to maintain a steady rhythm.

2. Once Construction Starts, Get Visual

When construction begins, your updates can truly come to life. Sharing bi-weekly video updates helps your community stay visually connected to the progress.

One church I worked with posted drone footage and short walk-through videos every other week, with commentary from their owner’s representative explaining the latest developments.

These updates don’t just inform, they generate excitement and help people see the impact of their support.

3. Send Quarterly Printed Newsletters to Donors

For organizations that have run a capital campaign, a printed quarterly newsletter is a powerful way to keep donors informed and engaged. A tangible piece of communication feels intentional and is more likely to be opened, read, and remembered.

Each issue might include:

• A letter from the pastor.
• Photos, testimonies, or ministry milestones.
• A giving progress snapshot (goal vs. current).
• Personal stories of faith or sacrifice from members.

These reminders keep the vision front and center and often inspire continued giving.

4. Leverage Social Media Creatively

Social media can significantly enhance engagement throughout the construction process. Assign a staff member or volunteer with strong communication skills to capture and share meaningful moments, from behind-the-scenes updates to major milestones.

Thoughtfully curated posts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook help make the momentum visible and keep your community connected.

Catalyst Construction

5. Communicate Setbacks Transparently, Starting with Leadership

Unexpected challenges are part of nearly every building project. When they arise, transparency is essential. However, share updates strategically so your leadership is informed first and aligned on next steps.

Think in concentric circles:

1. Staff and board.
2. Key volunteers or ministry leaders.
3. The wider congregation.

This approach ensures clarity, fosters unity, and helps your community rally together when challenges emerge.

6. Plan for “Recommitment Moments”

Because building projects often span several years, circumstances for your donors and members can change. After about a year, consider a “Finish Strong” push.

Refreshing your campaign with new communication invites fresh supporters to join and encourages existing donors to renew or even increase their commitment.

7. Choose a Construction Partner Who Communicates

One of the most overlooked, yet critical, aspects of a successful project is choosing a construction partner who understands your communication needs.

At Catalyst, we don’t just build; we walk alongside churches and schools as advisors. We help design meaningful engagement moments, from prayer walls to family tours, and provide leaders with tailored talking points, timelines, and visuals. We also help organize Community or Family Days to welcome people in, showcase progress, and create experiences that fit your unique vision.

We think through the owner’s eyes because we’ve been in your shoes, and we’re here to help lighten the load.

Good Communication Builds Confidence

The biggest mistake I see? Silence.

Too many churches go months without updates, then wonder why giving declines and momentum fades.

Communicating regularly, across multiple platforms, keeps energy high, builds trust, and helps your people feel part of something that’s moving forward.

To learn more about how Catalyst can support your ministry and building projects, visit catalystbuilds.com.