RD250 - Report on the Virginia Faith-Based and Community Initiative - October 2011


Executive Summary:
Section 63.2-703 of the Code of Virginia charges the Department of Social Services (DSS) with providing leadership and coordination for Virginia’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative and to report on a regular basis to the Governor and the General Assembly on the fulfillment of DSS’ responsibilities.

Major DSS accomplishments during the period from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011 that strengthened faith-based and community collaboration through the Faith-Based and Community Initiative included:

• Hosted nine regional best practice forums and capacity building workshops with faith-based, volunteer, private and community organizations for the purpose of sharing information to help carry out human services programs in Virginia;

• Provided technical assistance to over 2,000 constituents on locating grant funding and training opportunities, and advice and resources for writing grant proposals;

• Increased involvement by faith-based and community organizations in the DSS Strengthening Families Initiative; and

• Held five focus groups with local social service departments and community action agencies to determine how the Faith-based and Community Initiative might better support their efforts in local communities.

This is the fifth report to the Governor and General Assembly. Building on previous successes, Virginia’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative will continue to affiliate faith-based organizations with state, local and community organizations to promote collaborative service delivery, accountability, transparency, and results. The accomplishments and activities of the Virginia Faith-Based and Community Initiative have helped countless community-based organizations across the Commonwealth.