Governor Stitt Launches the Oklahoma Office of Faith Based Initiatives

On Thursday, November 07, 2024, Governor Kevin Stitt announced the launch of the Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, a new division within state government aimed at strengthening partnerships with faith-based and nonprofit communities. The office will serve as a centralized resource for these organizations, helping them engage more directly and effectively with Oklahoma Human Services to address the needs of Oklahomans. 

“As the son of a pastor, I know the heart of our state is in our families and places of worship,” said Governor Stitt. “The Office of Faith-Based Initiatives will house all of Oklahoma’s family and faith-based initiatives, and act as a one-stop-shop for those who need an extra hand. This is not some new government program, this is going to be an opportunity to bring people together, where neighbors can walk with neighbors and change lives.”

The office will act as a key point of contact for faith-based and nonprofit organizations, facilitating connections with state services and fostering collaboration on programs that support Oklahomans in need. The office’s objectives include creating a repository of state agency programs where these organizations can make a meaningful impact, particularly through the Be A Neighbor programs. Governor Stitt will also recognize faith-based organizations that positively impact their communities through partnerships with state agencies. 

“I’ve had the honor to see real change happen when we come to the table together to help our neighbors,” said Jeffrey Cartmell, director of Oklahoma Human Services. “Through the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, we will bring compassion, hope and true transformation into the lives of those we serve.”

The office has launched a dedicated webpage to provide resources and contact information for faith-based and community organizations across the state. This online hub will include links to the Be A Neighbor program’s data on key service pillars and offer pathways for organizations and individuals to participate in service efforts.

“I’m honored and humbled to serve Oklahomans in our Office of Faith-Based Initiatives,” said Andrea Stasyszen, deputy director of the Office of Faith-Based Initiatives. “Working across Oklahoma with so many different partners and churches has been the most rewarding experience of my life—and we’re just getting started.”

“Creating the Office of Faith-Based Initiatives is simply good governance—it’s a no brainer.” said State Rep. Ajay Pittman. “Our goal has always been simple yet profound, to harness the dedication and resources of our faith-based partners. I thank the Governor and his team for bringing this vision to life and look forward to seeing how Oklahomans take advantage of this incredible new office.”

For more information on the Oklahoma Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, please visit Oklahoma.gov/faithandcommunity.