Resources for State and Local Officials

Below are key resources related to the Faith-Based and Community Initiative compiled to equip State and local officials implementing various components of the Initiative:

HHS Partnering with Faith-Based and Community Organizations: A Guide for State and Local Officials Administering Federal Block and Formula Grant Funds - This guidebook, sometimes called the State Guide,  is designed by HHS to provide practical information for State and local officials on developing and enhancing effective partnerships with faith-based and community organizations. 

HHS Lessons Learned: Expanding Provider Participation through Vouchers - HHS took a closer look at voucher use in social services and the key elements of voucher program implementation.  This write-up is a summary of a larger report describing key elements of the transition from direct fund mechanisms to voucher funded mechanisms.

FBCI Research and Resources Database – This database incorporates the best faith-based and community initiative research and resources completed with funding from Federal agencies. The research includes process and results data for projects that were both specific to and impacted by the faith-based and community initiative as well as resources to strengthen the services and capacity of nonprofit organizations.

HHS Temporary Assistance for Needy Families’ Faith-Based and Community Initiative – The Administration for Children and Families  is working with ICF Caliber to identify and replicate partnerships between faith-based organizations and State Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or TANF agencies.   The project is in its beginning stages, but will be useful to those State administrators focusing on the social services arena.