Faith-based organizations, charitable choice, and government

This article discusses the positive and negative aspects of "charitable choice." Although the author challenges the validity of the "separation of Church and State" argument against charitable choice, perhaps the most popular argument against this concept is that it violates the separation of Church and State principles. On the other hand, the greatest value of the charitable choice concept is its inclusion of diversity and the resulting governmental responsiveness because of such diversity. The American public is becoming more diverse, and in turn, social issues concerning various communities are becoming more complex. In such an environment, a rich variety of inputs from diverse groups should be encouraged by public agencies. No one single entity (not government, education, or business) can solve all society problems alone. The WHOLE community-faith-based organizations, education, and public and private agencies, together-must all play a role in finding solutions and committing to action.