(INDIANAPOLIS) - Indiana Gov. Mike Braun has signed an executive order creating a statewide initiative aimed at expanding the role of faith-based organizations in addressing social issues.
The Indiana Faith-Based Institutions Initiative will be led by Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith's office and is intended to strengthen partnerships between government and religious organizations that provide community services.
According to the order, the program will consult with faith leaders and subject-matter experts to identify ways to reduce barriers that limit faith-based groups from participating in public service efforts.
Priority areas include substance-use recovery, prisoner reentry, civic engagement, family support, foster care and adoption, youth mentoring, workforce resilience, and character development.
State officials say the initiative is based on the belief that faith organizations can deliver certain services differently -- and sometimes more effectively -- than government programs alone.
Beckwith said the effort aims to expand programs that help Hoosiers overcome addiction, reintegrate after incarceration, strengthen families, and build stable, self-sufficient lives.
The order also emphasizes protecting religious liberty while ensuring a welcoming environment for qualified service providers across the state.