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OKLAHOMA CAPITOL  -- A contest is underway to reward faith-based organizations and congregations that collaborate with non-faith organizations to provide social services to the needy.
Oklahoma is one of 10 states piloting the Partners in Transformation contest, which began on Nov. 1 and runs through April 1, 2005. Fifty semi-finalists will be chosen to receive $100 each. State winners will be awarded $5,000 and will receive public recognition by Gov. Brad Henry.

“Congregations and other faith-based organizations have a history of providing significant, compassionate services throughout Oklahoma, and many of their programs have been in collaboration with other community groups,” said Brad Yarbrough, director, Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives. “The Partners in Transformation contest is easy to enter and will result in recognition and awards for many of these deserving organizations.”

FASTEN (The Faith and Service Technical Education Network) and the Points of Light Foundation launched the contest to identify and reward faith-based organizations and congregations. In its inaugural year, the contest will be piloted in Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Idaho, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma and Texas.

Faith-based non-profit organizations or houses of worship that address social problems in these states and that have an annual budget of less than $5 million and whose programs have measurable results, are eligible to enter. More information about the contest, and downloadable entrance forms, are available at http://www.FASTENnetwork.org.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Oklahoma's faith community to be recognized for their outstanding service and helping those in need,” Yarbrough said. “I encourage every faith-based organization, large or small, who has partnered with other community groups to apply.”

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