The program steers away from pre-packaged ministry models, instead pushing parish leaders to identify specific local crises—such as housing insecurity, food scarcity, or social isolation—and build custom solutions. Participants undergo a structured process of listening and discernment intended to turn abstract charitable goals into concrete, repeatable operations. Jason Deuterman, Executive Director of the Institute, noted that the initiative operates on the belief that parishes are best positioned to recognize and address the struggles of their own neighborhoods.

Applications for the inaugural cohort open October 9 and run through November 20. Selected teams gain access to professional training and a framework for long-term implementation, marking the first major launch under the Institute's refreshed mission to foster innovation within the Church. Interested parishes can submit applications via the official program portal at reply.osv.com/corworks.