What We Look for in a Partnership—and Why It Matters

At Mission ONE, we believe every community deserves to be restored. Our mission is to partner with the Global Church to make communities more like the Kingdom of God. Our vision to see every community transformed is realized through meaningful relationships with same or near culture missionaries who are already doing transformational work in their local contexts.

Because of this, partnership is not a strategy—it’s part of our identity. We don’t work alone and we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we walk with missionaries who have deep cultural understanding, gospel-rooted compassion, and a vision for holistic community restoration through the local church.

Rural church service during a visit with our newest ministry partner in India, May 2025

We currently have 11 local ministry partners, each with a network of missionaries sharing the gospel and meeting needs in their communities. Before each partnership was made official, we entered into a season of connecting, listening, and learning that helped us build trust and prayerfully consider a path forward. This is the process we continue to find ourselves in as we seek to further expand our gospel-centered impact across the globe.

So, what do we look for in a Mission ONE partner? And why is expanding our network of trusting leaders so vital to our mission?

1. A Shared Vision for Gospel-Centered, Holistic Transformation

We partner with leaders who are meeting both spiritual and physical needs—who recognize that transformation happens when people encounter the love of Christ and see real, tangible change in their communities. We seek to plant churches where there are none, while also launching projects that meet real needs and support the long-term impact of the local church. It’s vital that we align in this core value of how and why we serve. Without it, we would become disconnected and distracted in reaching our desired outcomes.

2. Same or Near Culture Leadership

Our model is built on the belief that those closest to the culture are closest to the solution. We honor and invest in leaders who live and lead within their communities—who understand the history, language, and rhythms of the people they serve. Rather than importing outside ideas, we elevate local solutions to local problems through the lens of the gospel.

3. Strong Accountability and Governance

Trust and transparency are essential to effective partnership. That’s why our partners must have a functioning board of directors or advisory board that offers accountability, oversight, and shared decision-making. This structure demonstrates a commitment to integrity, good stewardship, and long-term sustainability—all values that align with our own. To further ensure mutual accountability, we also require all partners to sign a formal partnership agreement—an important step that outlines shared expectations, responsibilities, and goals, and allows us to join together in accountability, as it also holds Mission ONE to the same standards.

4. Integrity, Relationship, and Mutual Learning

Our partnerships are more than project-based—they’re relational. We walk together, learn from one another, and remain committed for the long haul. We’re not here to spearhead the movement alone—we’re here to listen, support, and learn as co-laborers in Christ’s mission. Humility and mutual respect are the foundation of every Mission ONE partnership.

Mission ONE President with our long-standing partnership leaders in Nepal, May 2025

Why Growth Matters

Each new partnership is a step closer to our vision of every community restored. When we partner with new local ministries in areas we aren’t currently serving, we extend the reach of the gospel, plant more churches where there are none, unlock more opportunities for holistic transformation, and witness more of God’s Kingdom across the globe.

These relationships are not about expanding Mission ONE—they’re about expanding the Kingdom. Every partner brings a unique story, a unique context, and a unique expression of the gospel that reveals more of God’s heart for the world.

From Connection to Collaboration: Our Newest Partner in India

We’re thrilled to announce Mission ONE’s newest official ministry partnership in India, established in May 2025. This dynamic ministry leads a growing network of over 100 local missionaries who are actively bringing the hope of the gospel to rural villages across the country. Through their deep community connections, they engage in meaningful outreach—meeting practical needs, building relationships, and sharing the love of Christ in areas that are often overlooked. Earlier this year, the leader of this ministry visited us in the U.S., allowing us to deepen our connection. Then in May, Mission ONE President, Olivia, and Engagement Coordinator, Reza, traveled to India to witness firsthand the incredible ministry we’ve been learning about and walking alongside—an experience that marked the official beginning of this exciting new partnership.

Mission ONE President and Engagement Coordinator with new ministry leaders in India, May 2025

We’re Building More Than a Network—We’re Building the Kingdom

As we continue to grow Mission ONE, we remain deeply committed to discernment and prayer. We don’t chase numbers—we pursue relationships that are rooted in Christ, aligned in vision, and built on trust.

Because when the right people come together—with shared passion, purpose, and love for Jesus—the result is Kingdom restoration that creates an eternal impact.