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Introduction
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“Faith-based programs, volunteers, and grassroots groups are indispensable partners
with nonprofit service providers and government programs to serve the poor, renew
families, and rebuild neighborhoods.” President George W. Bush, February 2002.
The mission of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives is to help Oklahoma’s
poor and disadvantaged by promoting faith links—linking government with faith-based and
community organizations for the provision of needed social services.
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Community Organizations
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The private nonprofit sector has played a historical, vital role in American society.
Some groups provide direct services to individuals or families in need whisle others
promote values or public policies that encourage a healthy society where human dignity
is esteemed.
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Faith-Based Organizations
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Individual and corporate skills/interests can be utilized when faith congregations
partner with state social service agencies to intentionally influence their communities.
Providing help, with purpose, is one of the greatest agents for effectuating change in
a person’s life.
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Local Business and/or Economic Partners
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Community businesses can develop partnerships for networking surplus resources and/or
providing economic opportunities for those less fortunate. Successful, purpose-driven
business people may find meaning in sharing their knowledge and expertise through
mentorship programs. Both have the potential to provide financial stability and hope
to disadvantaged populations.
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OKDHS Offices
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The OFBCI encourages faith-based and community groups, through their leadership, to
contact the county DHS office and arrange a meeting with its Director. There are many
ways in which groups can be supportive of government social service programs. One way
is by expressing a willingness to be contacted any time an agency caseworker is
struggling to meet an individual client need. Click here for examples.
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State Agencies
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The state welcomes partnerships with the faith community. These collaborations do not
always involve a structured program or activity, nor government funding. All care-giving
groups are vital to the community and it makes sense to work together.
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Volunteerism
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Faith-based and community organizations are made up of individuals with a commitment to
serve. One person with a passion to help others may result in the engagement of an
entire group. Volunteer opportunities may be located through numerous groups that
specialize in matching individual interests with community needs.
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