FAQ
General Questions
What is the Community Flywheel?
The Community Flywheel is our self-reinforcing ecosystem where each program supports the others, creating continuous cycles of generosity and collaboration. A patron's donation can fund a Helper to deliver a Resource Share item; the same church may later commission art through the Gallery or host a Learning Hub course. These interconnected activities create network effects that amplify participation, revenue, and impact.
How does the dual-entity structure work?
RCA operates through a two-part structure: Redeemed Creative Arts, LLC handles technology and revenue activities, while Redeemed Creative Arts Foundation, Inc. oversees education, outreach, and grant-funded programs. The LLC owns all intellectual property and licenses it to the nonprofit at cost through written service agreements, ensuring IRS compliance and transparent financial management.
What are the fees for artists?
On secular platforms, creators often lose 15–20% of each sale to transaction fees. RCA provides a 5% commission alternative where artists retain ownership of their work, increase their earnings by 10-15% compared to secular platforms, and establish direct relationships with churches and patrons. Licensing tools and watermark protection safeguard original works.
How do you ensure safety for Helpers and churches?
Each Helper must complete a verification process including reference checks, proof of experience, and optional background screening through RCA's third-party partner. Standardized service agreements and digital payment tracking mitigate risk, while GPS check-ins support deliveries and on-site work. Emergency contact tools are available for quick response.
What's the income situation for Christian artists?
Approximately 166,700 independent artists work in the U.S. earning a median income of $62,544, but Christian creatives often earn half that amount from faith-based work. RCA addresses this income gap by creating sustainable income streams through our integrated ecosystem that combines art sales, gig placements, and educational opportunities.
How many churches do you serve?
There are approximately 330,000 Christian congregations in the U.S., most small to mid-sized with limited creative or technical capacity. Barna Group reports that 60% of pastors identify volunteer shortages as a barrier to ministry growth, and Lifeway Research found only 32% of churches have sufficient financial reserves - gaps that RCA's platform directly addresses.
What is your revenue model?
Our sustainable model includes: Resource Share Marketplace (2-3% transaction fees), Creative Arts Gallery (5% commission), Helper Network (1.5-10% service fees and premium subscriptions), Educational Hub (5% platform fee), and Campaign Support (tiered participation fees). We project achieving operational break-even within 18-24 months and 40% cost recovery by Year 3.
How do I become a Helper?
Join our Helper Network by completing our verification process which includes reference checks and optional background screening. Helpers can participate in both paid engagements (with 1.5-10% service fees) and unpaid opportunities. RCA aims to creates flexible service opportunities for skilled professionals, musicians, designers, and drivers.
