Library: News Releases
OKLAHOMA CAPITOL --- The Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives is co-sponsoring the “Building Communities with Faith Conference” scheduled from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Nov. 7 on the Langston University’s Oklahoma City Campus, located at 4205 N. Lincoln Blvd. in Oklahoma City.
Hosted by Langston University and open to the general public, it is hoped the conference will create a heightened awareness of the numerous and diverse opportunities available to Oklahoma’s faith-based organizations. Religious groups will be provided with current information on how to successfully partner with state and local government to help solve community problems.
The conference will also emphasize economic opportunities such a job creation, business development and community revitalization.
Former Oklahoma Congressman J. C. Watts will be the keynote speaker. While serving in Congress, he authored the “Community Solutions Act of 2001,’’ considered a key piece of legislation in President George Bush’s faith-based initiative. Watts recently created the J. C. Watts Foundation to focus on urban renewal and other charitable causes.
Shelley Henderson with the White House Office of Public Liaison and Cheryl Appline with the Center for Faith-Based and Community Initiatives at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will also make presentations. Both will address federal policies and funding opportunities affecting faith-based organizations.
Attendees will include representatives from field offices of various federal agencies, representatives from state agencies, clergy and other leaders in the faith community.
There is no charge for the conference and a free lunch will be provided. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call Phyllis Turner at Langston University, 405-962-1625 to register.
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