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You don’t need to look far to learn about our nations’ values. Dollar bills still say, “In God We Trust.” In the House Chamber, behind the Speaker’s podium you can find the very same phrase. The first amendment to the Constitution guaranteed the right to freedom of religion. Churches and religious organizations have played a vital role in the development of today’s society.
Faith-based and community organizations have long been an integral part of our social network, helping Americans in need and providing important services to our communities. Unfortunately, the federal government has hindered the effectiveness of our faith-based groups in the past. Complicated rules and regulations have prevented them from competing for federal funding on a level playing field with other organizations.
That's why I've supported the work of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. This program aims to help Americans in need by strengthening and expanding the role of faith-based groups in social services. Federal funding should be available to the most effective organizations, whether religious or not.
The effort has helped create programs that mentor children of prisoners, treat addicts in the program of their choosing, discourage at-risk youth from gang activity, and provide technical assistance to small organizations seeking to help more people in need.
Whether big or small, public or private, religious or secular, I will continue to support the work of organizations making a difference in the lives of Americans.
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