Alabama may be the 20th state to create an Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, but it is the first state to combine its office with the Corporation for National Community Service (CNCS). And because of this, Alabama is now the model for the nation, said Terri Hasdorff, executive director of the new state office.
The CNCS includes AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Learn and Serve America programs. “It’s a natural fit,” Hasdorff said.
Gov. Bob Riley introduced the office Aug. 4 as a reorganization of the Office on National and Community Service. The staff of five remains the same as does the funding, but the role has expanded.
“I believe one of the most effective ways government can help those in need is to help charities, faith-based organizations and community groups that are working every day to transform lives with acts of compassion,” Riley said.
“This office will mostly serve as a clearinghouse,” Hasdorff said, noting faith-based organizations interested in applying for federal or state funds must meet certain requirements. Hasdorff, a member of First Baptist Church, Montgomery, will help point people in the right direction to meet those requirements.
“There is no new pot of money,” Hasdorff emphasized. “This just levels the playing field,” so faith-based organizations and ministries will have the same opportunity to compete for federal funds as others do.
Hasdorff emphasized that working with the new office does not guarantee a group will receive government funds.
“This is not affirmative action,” she said. “My goal is to tutor them. We are helping equip faith-based organizations to handle federal or state funds if they choose to accept them.”
Hasdorff and her staff will also help churches and other faith-based organizations interpret guidelines that will be attached to the various government monies. “Government can fund compassion, but it cannot fund conversion,” she said. “If you don’t mix tax money and tithe money, there is no problem.”
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