100 Certified Congregations

Program Details

The Virginia Living Wage Certification Program, a Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy program, recognizes and honors congregations of all faiths that pay living wages. Since 2018 the program has certified more than 150 employers, partnering with local volunteers to foster rich connections across the Commonwealth.

Our 100 Certified Congregations will be certified using the latest methodology and wage rate system.

-This standard and methodology allow for a congregation anywhere in Virginia to become certified. All you need to do is check your wage against the wages listed for your area.

-This system more closely aligns with global living wage standards and the end-of-year goal for Living Wage Virginia to become an affiliate of the national living wage certification program, Living Wage for Us.

Wage Level

Our program has two levels:

Tier 1- Congregations in this tier are on their journey toward ensuring a living wage for all employees by paying the entry wage listed for their area, as well as committing to efforts that will help employees reach a full living wage. In 2023, this tier ranges from $15-$18 per hour adjusted based on cost of living differences.

Tier 2- Congregations in this tier ensure that employees earn a true living wage based on base pay alone. In 2023, this tier ranges from $17.50-$24 per hour adjusted based on cost of living differences.

Benefits to Congregations

Certification

Becoming a Living Wage-certified congregation affords you an official certification, a digital badge for your website or social media profiles, a window cling, and recognition with values-aligned congregants, employers, and community groups.

Recognition

Regular recognition is offered through both new media and print advertisements.

Visibility

Becoming a certified Living Wage congregation makes your commitment to your values visible and raises your congregational profile among the communities you serve.

For more details, head to the application.