May 13, 2005

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced community and faith-based groups across the state now have a one-stop shop for information on grants and programs they can use to maximize their role in protecting Michigan’s most vulnerable citizens.  The Web site, www.michigan.gov/outreach, was recently launched by the Governor’s Office of Community and Faith-Based Initiatives (OCFBI).
 
The Web portal will provide 24-hour access to information regarding federal grants, state initiatives, and other partnership opportunities for faith-based organizations and community non-profits.  Groups can also sign up for the OCFBI listserv at the Web site, which will provide them with immediate updates when new opportunities become available.
 
The Office of Community and Faith-Based Initiatives focuses on supporting the critical community support services that faith-based and community organizations provide.  The Governor’s office has been engaged in community and faith-based outreach since 2003.  Creation of this new office under Executive Order 2005-6 formalizes the effort.

Functions of the OCFBI include advising the Governor on policies, priorities, and objectives for state government activities that will assist community and faith-based organizations address the social needs in Michigan; working closely with community and faith-based organizations to promote service activities and identify and apply for grants; and promoting and sharing innovative community and faith-based programs.