Search for the holy grail in Oklahoma: Partnering with faith-based organizations to deliver social services

Abstract

Oklahoma should be fertile ground for faith-based social service initiatives. This bible-belt state fares poorly on numerous economic, health, and social indicators. Despite the overwhelming optimism that initially inspired key leaders to involve faith organizations in helping to solve Oklahoma's pressing problems, the results so far have been less than dramatic. New financial relationships with faith-based organizations in Oklahoma appear minimal. The honeymoon for charitable choice implementation in Oklahoma is over. The state is now focusing on non-financial collaborations with the faith community.