Our Story

From Vision to Purpose

Dr. Cleveland A. Thompson

Kingdom Development was born from a vision rooted in faith, stewardship, and a desire to serve the Colorado Springs community in a meaningful and lasting way.

The story begins with Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church. In 2010, Emmanuel had reached the capacity of its previous location. As the congregation continued to grow, it became clear that the church needed additional space—not simply to accommodate its members, but to continue expanding its ministry and community presence.

A New Home, A Greater Purpose

That need led Emmanuel to begin a strategic search for a new home that could support both its growing congregation and its long-term vision for ministry. On September 30, 2012, Emmanuel held its first worship service at its new location at 3615 Vickers Drive in Colorado Springs. The new facility met the immediate needs of the church and was situated on approximately 14 acres of land, creating opportunities that extended well beyond the walls of the sanctuary.

For Dr. Cleveland A. Thompson, the move represented an important milestone, but it did not feel like the end of the journey.

Even while giving thanks for how far God had brought Emmanuel, Dr. Thompson continued to believe that there was a greater purpose for the undeveloped portion of the property. Over time, that sense of unfinished purpose became increasingly clear.

In 2022, that vision took a more defined form: use the available land to create affordable housing for Seniors and Veterans, two populations Dr. Thompson believed were underserved within the Colorado Springs community.

The vision was shared with Emmanuel’s executive leadership and ultimately with the church body. With the support of the executive board and voting members, the church agreed to move forward and explore how its land could be used not only for ministry, but also as a resource for community development.

From that decision, Kingdom Development was established.

A Vision Takes Shape