From the very beginning, our journey with Catalyst Construction has been marked by integrity, collaboration, and trust. I’m Pastor Mark Weigt, founding and lead pastor of The Ridge Community Church in southeast Wisconsin. My wife and I started the church 17 years ago with just 20 people, and today we have grown significantly, with campuses in Greenfield, Oak Creek/Franklin. Our relationship with Catalyst Construction began in 2011 when we sought a permanent location for our growing congregation.
The Genesis of a Partnership
Initially, we operated in portable facilities, but when the time came to find a permanent location, we interviewed several builders. Catalyst stood out among the rest. They made it to our final three choices, and we ultimately chose them, marking the beginning of a partnership that has spanned multiple projects over the years.
A Test of Integrity
One of the most defining moments of our partnership occurred early on. We were on the verge of acquiring a piece of land, and the soil report came back questionable. In a meeting with their team, I asked, “If you were us, what would you do?” Without hesitation, they advised us to walk away from the deal. That moment solidified our trust in them. They prioritized our best interests over their potential profits, demonstrating their commitment to integrity and client welfare.
Consistent Excellence in Every Project
When it comes to nonprofit and church-based construction, finding a company that not only delivers high-quality work but also understands the unique needs of these organizations can be a challenge. However, Catalyst Construction has proven to be an exceptional partner, offering a combination of honesty, integrity, and outstanding craftsmanship.
Catalyst Construction has been our partner in several significant projects. They renovated our first permanent location in a former Walmart building, handled subsequent refurbishments, and converted an old movie theater into another church location.
Catalyst’s Unique Approach
What sets Catalyst apart is their unwavering dedication to our vision and their expertise in navigating the nonprofit and church world. They have saved us substantial amounts of money, always ensuring we steward our resources well. Their knowledge and understanding of our specific needs allow them to provide exceptional advice and support.
Another notable aspect of Catalyst’s approach is their commitment to involving the community. During the first phase of constructing the current building, Catalyst encouraged the church to promote the project from the stage and engage the congregation in activities like demolition. This not only saved money but also fostered a sense of ownership and pride among the church members. They created an environment where people felt like they were part of the project. Those small gestures to including the people of the church create a lasting impact and a togetherness that would otherwise be missing. It’s a really exciting experience to be a part of, it’s more than construction.
Building Community Spaces
Our vision has always been to repurpose existing buildings to reflect our community’s character. Catalyst has embraced this vision wholeheartedly. They helped us transform a Walmart into a “destination plaza,” creating environments that serve not just our church but also the broader community. These spaces host business events, community gatherings, and high-level service projects, becoming hubs for connection and engagement.
A Culture of Trust and Excellence
Catalyst’s culture, set by Matt Burrow and carried forward by leaders like Adam Arndt and Steve Widmer, is one of honesty, generosity, and bold vision. Every general contractor we’ve worked with at Catalyst embodies these values. Their culture of trust and excellence ensures that every project, whether big or small, is handled with the same level of dedication and care.
The Ambassador Program: A Natural Fit
Being selected as a Catalyst Ambassador feels like a natural extension of our relationship. I believe in their work so strongly that recommending them comes effortlessly. Our partnership has not only benefited The Ridge Community Church but also other churches in our network. We’ve created a “broker, banker, and builder” partnership, facilitating numerous projects and ensuring that every church gets the best possible support.
In essence, Catalyst Construction is more than just a builder for us—they are a trusted partner, integral to our mission of serving the community and expanding our reach. Their dedication to excellence, integrity, and client success makes them invaluable, and I’m proud to be an ambassador for such an outstanding organization.
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