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History
and Staff:
Background
Government’s emphasis on faith-based initiatives largely began when the Welfare Reform Act of ’96 was passed. This legislation revolutionized the welfare system of America and contained the
Charitable Choice
provision. It outlined the terms whereby the government could purchase services from faith-based organizations and clarified church/state issues.
New Opportunities for the Faith Community
The Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives (OFBCI) was established in July 2000 to encourage faith-based initiatives throughout Oklahoma. It promotes collaboration between state agencies and faith-based, community organizations to provide social services. To accomplish its mission, the OFBCI
relays accurate church/state information to the government
and faith sector about opportunities to work together and
the guidelines for doing so.
A successful collaboration does not necessarily involve government funding and faith-based
groups are encouraged to conduct a thorough investigation of potential resources, financial
and otherwise.
In pursuit of its mission, the OFBCI is continuously engaged
in various projects. Its operations are facilitated through
the Oklahoma Department of Human Services.
From its inception in 2000 through April 15, 2006, Brad Yarbrough served as the OFBCI
Director. Deborah Price has served as the Projects Manager since May of 2002. Robin Jones
is currently the OFBCI Director.
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