Religious and Faith-based Organizations

Unique risks faced by religious organizations

Religious organizations face unique risks that can significantly affect their operations and communities. From natural disasters damaging property to liability claims from accidents on premises, faith-based organizations face numerous hazards:

• Sexual misconduct claims: Allegations of abuse can have devastating reputational and financial consequences. Specialized liability coverage and proactive safeguarding policies are essential
• Volunteer-related injuries: Volunteers are often the backbone of religious institutions. Ensuring they are covered under appropriate accident and liability policies is critical
• Cyber threats: As religious organizations rely more on digital platforms for donations, communications and record-keeping, they’re increasingly vulnerable to data breaches and ransomware attacks
• Employment practices liability: Claims related to wrongful termination, discrimination or harassment can arise even in faith-based organizations
• Event and travel risks: Mission trips, retreats and large gatherings introduce additional exposures that require tailored risk management and insurance strategies
• Active shooter: Active shooter incidents pose a significant risk to religious organizations, threatening the safety and security of congregants and staff during gatherings and events

Who we serve

• Roman Catholic diocesan structures and affiliated religious orders
• Christian denominations, spiritual fellowships and ministry networks
• Large-scale churches and expansive ministry organizations
• Non-governmental entities rooted in faith-based missions
• Housing and care facilities operated by religious groups
• Outreach programs serving youth, elders and vulnerable communities
• Organizations dedicated to sending and supporting missionaries
• Faith-centered educational institutions and retreat camps
• Religious associations, guilds and community societies
• Boards, trusts and foundations guided by faith-based principles

Tailored solutions for religious organizations

At WTW, we understand that religious and faith-based organizations are more than institutions — they are pillars of community and service. Our dedicated team brings deep expertise in the nonprofit and faith-based sectors, offering:

• Customized risk assessments: We evaluate your organization’s specific risk exposures and design insurance programs that align with your mission and operations acknowledging certain religions are sensitive to select financial products.
• Specialized coverage options: From abuse and molestation liability to cyber risk and directors and officers (D&O) insurance, we offer solutions that address the full spectrum of risks
• Claims advocacy and support: In the event of a loss, our team provides hands-on guidance to help you navigate the claims process with compassion and efficiency
• Benchmarking and analytics: Our proprietary data tools will compare your risk profile and coverage against similar organizations
• Training and risk mitigation resources: Access workshops, webinars and toolkits to educate staff and volunteers on best practices in safety and compliance
• Church plans: Utilizing our Health, Wealth and Career teams we can offer retirement and pension plan consulting to provide the valuable financial tools for religious employees.

Whether you're reviewing your current insurance coverage or building a risk strategy from the ground up, our team is here to help you manage risk, so you can focus on your organization’s critical mission.