My organization has a requirement that the members of its governing board be members of our faith. Is it still eligible to receive Federal funding?

Answer: 

In general, yes. A faith-based or religious organization does not need to change the way it selects members for its governing board in order to qualify for a Federal grant. However, there may be some grant programs that depart from this general rule.

For example, the law requires Community Action Agencies (organizations that are eligible to receive Community Service Block Grant funds) to have boards that are composed of elected public officials, low-income neighborhood residents, and representatives of other organizations. A faith-based group that is interested in organizing or participating in a Community Action must comply with this requirement.

Source: Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partnering with the Federal Government(published by the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives 2002) http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance_document.pdf

Learn more:

•  Center for Faith Based and Community Initiatives

Last Updated: 4/28/2008