The principal functions of the office of faith-based and community initiatives are to:

1.    Develop, lead, and coordinate the state‘s policy agenda affecting faith-based and community programs and initiatives; expand the role of those efforts in communities; and increase their capacity through executive action, legislation, federal and private funding, and regulatory relief; 2.    Coordinate public education activities designed to mobilize public support for faith-based and community initiatives through volunteerism, special projects, demonstration pilots, and public and private partnerships; 3.    Encourage private charitable giving to support faith-based and community initiatives; 4.    Bring concerns, ideas, and policy options to the governor and legislative assembly for assisting, strengthening, and replicating successful faith-based and community programs; 5.    Provide policy and legal education to state, local, and community policymakers and public officials seeking ways to empower faith-based and community organizations and to improve the opportunities, capacity, and expertise of those groups; 6.    Develop and implement strategic initiatives to strengthen the institutions of civil society and the state’s families and communities; 7.    Encourage innovative grassroots, nonprofit organizations, and civic initiatives; and

8.    Ensure that the efforts of faith-based and community organizations meet high standards of excellence and accountability.