The Government Gets One Right

By David Davenport

"Every once in awhile, the federal government actually gets one right, as President Bush did when his first two executive orders, 7 years ago, created the faith-based initiatives program.

Unlike most federal programs, this was not new bureaucracy and more spending, but it lowered legal barriers that had prevented local, faith-based charities from carrying out social service programs with federal dollars that other providers received. As President Bush said, it leveled the playing field.

Now, on its 7th anniversary, the results are clear. Faith-based programs work. They are local and personal and they have delivered as good or better results than traditional programs in prisons, homelessness, health and other areas.

In fact, by now 35 states--with 19 governors who are Democrats and 16 Republicans--have followed suit.

It's a win-win and in the process, perhaps, the president has fostered a quiet revolution by lowering the barriers and giving religious-charities a seat at the table."