Question:	How does funding work?
Answer:	Neither federal nor state law creates a special funding stream that is available only to faith-based and community groups. Faith-based and community organizations can apply for funding in any program for which they meet the eligibility requirements for service providers. This most often includes programs funded by the U.S. Departments of Health and Human Services, Education, Justice, Labor and Housing and Urban Development.
Question:	How do I find out about funds that are available in Virginia?
Answer:	The Virginia Department of General Services maintains a listing of goods and services being purchased by state agencies, colleges and local government. General information about contracting with government agencies may be found at http://www.eva.state.va.us. Grant Award opportunites offered by State agencies appear on their individual websites, which are listed at http://www.vipnet.org
Question:	What about accountability?
Answer:	Religious organizations contracting to provide assistance are subject to the same regulations as other service providers. They are subject to all federal, state and local non-discrimination laws in the delivery of services and are subject to audits. If these organizations place government contract funds in a separate account, only those funds will be audited. Finally, funds must be used for the services intended and may not be used for worship, religious instruction or proselytizing. In the past, many faith-based organizations failed to participate in government-funded projects over concern they would have to compromise their religious character. Both federal and state law clarify that faith-based organizations retain their independence from government interference, do not have to alter their internal governance and are not required to remove religious art, icons, scripture or other symbols.
Question:	How do I learn more?
Answer:	Virginia Faith-Based and Community Initiative staff provide technical assistance and training in areas such as : How to locate and acquire funding How to maintain separation of religious activities and government services How to incorporate and apply to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax-exempt status Understanding the laws that allow faith-based groups to apply for government funding Building organizational capacity (Organizational Assessment Tool) Operational systems and tools for effective budget, grant, and finance management Establishing and maintaining effective boards Strategic planning Outcome-based service delivery How to collaborate with other organizations, including larger, established government and nonprofit agencies Sustainability For more information call (800) 638-3839 toll-free or e-mail info@vaservice.org

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