Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
185805082
label
Presidential Task Force on Volunteers for the Needy (1 of 4)
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
185805082
contentType
document
title
Presidential Task Force on Volunteers for the Needy (1 of 4)
citationUrl
collections
Records of the White House Office of Public Liaison (Reagan Administration)
Morton Blackwell's Subject Files
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
185805082
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
e5a4fceca40a556f
ocrText
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library
Digital Library Collections
This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections.
Collection: Blackwell, Morton: Files
Folder Title: Presidential Task Force on
Volunteers for the Needy (1 of 4)
Box: 20
To see more digitized collections visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library
To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit:
https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection
Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected]
Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing
National Archives Catalogue: https://catalog.archives.gov/
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D. C.20510
ROGER W. JEPSEN
IOWA
March 12, 1981
Mr. Edwin Meese III
Counsellor to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Ed:
We would like to bring to your attention an exciting new
idea -- The Foundation for the Poor. In addition, we
want to lend our endorsement to a creative, innovative
proposal: a national commission for the poor.
The Foundation for the Poor was formed by an enterprising
group of concerned and committed Christians led by Dr. E. V.
Hill, Harv Oostdyk, Robert Pittinger, Arch Decker, Clint
Murchison, and Holly Coors, among others. They are
endeavoring to reach out to the truly poor and needy,
assisting them in becoming self-sufficient whenever possible,
and restoring their self-esteem. The vehicle they are using
are the churches of America, with technical and financial
assistance coming from individuals and businesses in the
private sector. This "at home" mission field has not
received adequate attention from the local churches in
recent years. This group challenges and assists them in
becoming involved.
Significantly, this group is urging the creation of a
national commission for the poor to further the movement
of new and private resources into the inner cities, without
the investment of any government funds. The formation of
such a group by President Reagan would do much to inspire
and encourage Americans to reach out to their less
fortunate brothers and sisters within their own communities.
As we are all aware, due to the mobility of today's society,
the breakdown of the family unit, and the loss of a
"sense of community," there is an insensitivity to the
needs of our fellow man.
Mr. Edwin Meese
Page 2
March 12, 1981
By adopting this proposal, we believe that the Administration
could take the leadership in offsetting the actual, as well
as psychological, effects of the unavoidable belt-tightening
which the government must do in relationship to certain
social programs. It would, in addition, foster a spiritual
and moral renewal of the compassionate spirit which is the
heritage of the American people.
We therefore suggest the following:
1. A meeting with the leadership of The Foundation for
the Poor, to outline the concept and its feasibility,
with Elizabeth Dole and her staff (who have been
receptive of this proposal), Secretary Schweiker,
a representative of President Reagan, and interested
members of Congress.
2. Consideration of a proposed list of Commission members
with Dr. E. V. Hill as Chairman.
3. An office in the Executive Office Building for liaison
with the Administration upon the appointment of the
Commission.
Enclosed you will find details of this proposal which we
urge you to consider.
Sincerely,
Gen Roger W. Jepsen Jepsen Mark O. Hatfield
Ban
William Armstrong
Jesse Jesse Helms Helms
ouplicate letters to:
Mike Deaver
Jim Baker
AGENDA
PRESIDENTIAL COMMISSION FOR THE POOR
1. Goals and objectives of the Presidential Commission for the Poor
2. Goals and objectives of the Foundation for the Poor
3. Division of fiscal responsibility between the Presidentíal
Commission and the Foundation
4. Staffing the Presidential Commission
5. Appropriate name for the Presidential Commission
6. Use of the White House office
7. Appropriate procedure for approval of the Presidential Commission
Edward Victor Hill
Mount 2:on Missionary Baptist Church
1300 East Fiftieth Street
Los Angeles, California 90011
(213) 235-2103
BORN:
Columbus, Texas - November 10, 1933
REARED:
San Antonio and Seguin, Texas
MARRIED TO:
The former Jane Edna Coruthers, daughter of
Dr. and Mrs. John Milton Coruthers, Prairie View, Texas
CHILDREN :
Norva Rose Hill - Associate Attorney for the
Law Firm of Loeb & Loeb
Edward V. Hill, II - Eighth grader at
Pilgrim Christian School
MINISTRY
Pastored the Friendly Will Missionary Baptist Church,
Austin, Texas in 1959
Pastored the Mount Corinth Missionary Baptist
Church of Houston, Texas from 1955-1960
Pastor of the Mount Iion Missionary Baptist Church
of Los Angeles from 1961 until the present
EDUCATION:
Bachelor of Science from Prairie View A & M College,
Prairie View, Texas in 1955 in agronomy
Masters in psychology from Union University,
Newport Beach, California
HIGH SCHOOL:
Active member of all church activities, president
of the local chapter of the New Farmers of America;
local 4-H club, vice-president of Texas New Farmers
of America
COLLEGE:
Reporter, freshman class student leader, preacher for
the Baptist Student Union.
First president of the National Bantist Youth Convention,
PRESENT
POSITIONS
Pastor of the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church
AND HONORS:
Honorable Consul General to the Republic of Liberia
President of the California Baptist Joint Commission
Chairman of the Black Clergy Committee for the Election
of Ronald Reagan
PRESENT
POSITIONS
Member of the Black Republican Advisory Committee
AND HONORS
President and Director of the World Christian
Training Center
Chairman of the Board of the Work Experience
Program of the World Christian Training Center
President of Mount Zion Towers, Incorporated
President of E. Victor Villa, Incorporated
President of The United Benevolent Society
Member of the Board of Directors for the
Billy Graham Association
Member of the Board of Trustees for Bishop and
Morehouse College
Member of the Board of Directors for the National
Baptist Convention, U.S.A., Inc.
kest Coast Representative for P.U.S.H.
Chairman of the Economic Development Committee
of The Gathering
Visiting Professor for the California Graduate
School of Theology
Honored by Time Magazine as one of the
seven outstanding Pastors of the country
Twice Pastor of the Year for Los Angeles
Life Member of the N.A.A.C.P.
Life Member of National Baptist Convention
PREVIOUS
POSITIONS:
President of the California State Baptist
Convention
Charter member of the Southern Christian Leadership
Conference
Chairman of the Los Angeles Poverty Program
Organizer of O.I.C. - Los Angeles
Edward Victor Hill
PREVIOUS
POSITIONS
(Cont'd)
Chairman of the Los Angeles Fire Committee
Vice-Chairman of the Los Angeles Planning
Commission
Board Member of the Los Angeles Urban League
Board Member of the Los Angeles N.A.A.C.P.
Dean of the Baptist Ministers Conference of
Los Angeles
Co-chairman of the N. American Committee
of the Baptist World Alliance
Chairman of the Mayor's Committee on Economic
Development
Chairman of the National Concerned Clergy
for Evangelism
Lecturer for the Billy Graham School of
Evangelism and the Women's Auxiliary of
the National Baptist Convention, U.S.A., Inc.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
3/30
Morton,
Let's get together
and understand our
shotesy on the
Foundation for the
Poor.
Diana
3/20
schedule -
Follow artion
MDT:
5:45 p.m.
TODAY -
mb
and Frank looked at this and advised that JAB look over it
provide guidance for a draft.
3/22
Prompt Thanks.
He thought that it had undertones of the Moral Majority
a
answer -
KC
Refund to E. Dolis office. (norunlibe matter H. have
spoke to m. m. about / have prio. netor [ business] pich stach-
from shuttin of bout social Community Desim w/ E. Doh ~ Red C for follow up up
Dena
be your 1/1
This we will will
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D. C.20510
ROGER W. JEPSEN
IOWA
March 12, 1981
Mr. James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff and Assistant
to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Jim:
We would like to bring to your attention an exciting new
idea -- The Foundation for the Poor. In addition, we
want to lend our endorsement to a creative, innovative
proposal: a national commission for the poor.
The Foundation for the Poor was formed by an enterprising
group of concerned and committed Christians led by Dr. E. V.
Focush
Hill, Harv Oostdyk, Robert Pittinger, Arch Decker, Clint
efforts of 7
Murchison, and Holly Coors, among others. They are
Chrichlsisto
endeavoring to reach out to the truly poor and needy,
assisting them in becoming self-sufficient whenever possible,
and restoring their self-esteem. The vehicle they are using
Gahm +
are the churches of America, with technical and financial
Falavel+
assistance coming from individuals and businesses in the
private sector. This "at home" mission field has not
received adequate attention from the local churches in
game eshison
recent years. This group challenges and assists them in
becoming involved.
not idea
Significantly, this group is urging the creation of a
national commission for the poor to further the movement
benefit ->
of new and private resources into the inner cities, without
the investment of any government funds. The formation of
if linked +
such a group by President Reagan would do much to inspire
lots of resorver
and encourage Americans to reach out to their less
fortunate brothers and sisters within their own communities.
are angred
As we are all aware, due to the mobility of today's society,
the breakdown of the family unit, and the loss of a
Iream
"sense of community," there is an insensitivity to the
needs of our fellow man.
like but
carry
Mr. James A. Baker
Page 2
March 12, 1981
By adopting this proposal, we believe that the Administration
could take the leadership in offsetting the actual, as well
as psychological, effects of the unavoidable belt-tightening
which the government must do in relationship to certain
social programs. It would, in addition, foster a spiritual
and moral renewal of the compassionate spirit which is the
heritage of the American people.
We therefore suggest the following:
1. A meeting with the leadership of The Foundation for
the Poor, to outline the concept and its feasibility,
with Elizabeth Dole and her staff (who have been
receptive of this proposal), Secretary Schweiker,
a representative of President Reagan, and interested
members of Congress.
2. Consideration of a proposed list of Commission members
with Dr. E. V. Hill as Chairman.
3. An office in the Executive Office Building for liaison
with the Administration upon the appointment of the
Commission.
Enclosed you will find details of this proposal which we
urge you to consider.
Sincerely,
Roger W. Tepsen
Mark O. Hatfield
William Armstrong
Jesse Jesse Helms Helms
1
FLL + Defere Dept.
what is The plan re de ragulation J RCC
7 cable to be - problem w/ regulated network
*
Lew Gray
/
Morton
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 26, 1981
To:
Red Cavaney
From:
Morton Blackwell M
Munta 3/2e Please is Said Bader wait litter! sin the
Re:
Attached Memo of Invitation
In addition to conversations with Elizabeth, Mrs. Jepsen, Mr. Coors,
Mr. Pittinger, Mr. Oosdyk and Thelma, all of whom are strongly
supportive of this program, I have spoken to Ken Cribb in Craig
Fuller's office and Dave Nolan in Fred Fielding's office. Cribb
and Nolan are likely to be designated by Fielding and Fuller to
attend this proposed meeting.
Mr. Baker, Mr. Meese, and Mr. Deaver are all informed and interested
in this concept.
Before I sent out the invitations, I wanted to run the idea by
you. The three representatives of the Foundation for the Poor
(universally agreed to be a unsatisfactory name) are planning to
be here unless we have scheduling problems on our end.
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 26, 1981
TO:
FROM:
Morton C. Blackwell
SUBJECT: MEETING REGARDING "COMMISSION FOR THE POOR"
The Office of Public Liaison is hosting a meeting to discuss the
possible creation of a volunteer-staffed office in the White
House complex which would assist in channeling church efforts
into a program involving congregation members directly in assist-
ing the poor.
You are cordially invited to participate, in person or through a
staff representative, in an exploratory discussion of this concept
in Room 132, OEOB, at 2:00 PM on Friday, April 3, 1981. The
meeting should take no more than 90 minutes.
Several senior staff members have expressed an interest in this
project, which is being organized by the Foundation for the Poor,
headed by Rev. E. V. Hill of California. Many of the most
prominent national religious leaders are actively involved.
Senator Roger Jepsen and Senator Bill Armstrong are strong
supporters of the concept, as are Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Coors.
Those invited to this meeting include:
Craig Fuller, Director of Cabinet Administration
Mel Bradley, Senior Policy Advisor, OPD
Dorcas Hardy (Secretary Schweiker)
Mrs. Roger Jepsen
Tom Getman (Senator Hatfield)
Fred Fielding, Counsel to the President
Thelma Duggin, Dep. Special Asst. to the President
Robert Pittinger, Foundation for the Poor
Harv Oosdyk, Foundation for the Poor
E. V. Hill, Foundation for the Poor
Morton C. Blackwell, Special Asst. to the President
Please telephone me or my assistant, Tony Benedi, at 456-2657
to confirm whether or not you (or you staff representative) will
be able to attend next Friday.
WILL L. ARMSTRONG
COLORADO
Mnited States Senale
file
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510
Foundation foor for the
December 13, 1980
The Honorable Ronald Reagan
President-elect of the United States
1726 M Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20270
Re: National Commission for the Poor
Dear Mr. President:
I am enclosing a proposal for one of the finest ideas that I have
heard of in a long, long time The National Commission for the Poor.
This idea which is being advanced by a number of my Christian
friends is for a Presidential Commission to involve private sector
resources to solve the problems of urban poverty.
As envisioned by Dr. E. V. Hill, Harv Oostdyk, Robert Pittenger and
the others who are working on this idea, this commission would involve
the expenditure. of no federal funds. It would be primarily intended to
-
offer concerned citizens. specific opportunities to help poor people in
their own communities.
I think most of us have a sense of guilt about the poor, Mr. President.
We recognize the massive federal programs for the poor have been an
utter failure. We have criticized waste, extravagence and the fact that
such programs end up making people more dependent on the government
instead of freeing them for lives of fulfillment and independence. But
while we have been quick to criticize these misguided federal programs,
we have been far less able to identify specific private sector, voluntary
solutions. I believe that the backers of the National Commission for
the Poor have many answers.
I would like to strongly recommend two things:
First, please ask a member of your staff to review the proposed
Commission outlined which is attached. If you concur, I would urge the
formation of such a Commission.
The Honorable Ronald Reagan
December 13, 1980
Page Two
Second, I believe that a logical person to head such an effort
would be Dr. E. V. Hill, whose resume I am attaching. Dr. Hill has
extraordinary credentials as pastor, professor, civil rights leader and
public citizen. He is an active Republican and is a member of the Black
Republican Advisory Committee and Chairman of the Black Clergy Committee
for the election of Ronald Reagan.
I think it would be a tremendous thing if you would agree to form
such a Commission under the leadership of Dr. Hill and including in the
membership other prominent Christian leaders whose hearts are heavy with
concern for the nation's poor. I would be happy to consult with you
about this matter or be of any possible assistance.
Sincerely yours,
William L.. Armstrong
WLA:a1
Enclosures
CC: The Honorable Richard Schweiker
A PROPOSED
NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR THE POOR
A.
URBAN FAILURE
Despite huge appropriations the problems of our urban poor
continue to escalate. This creates huge fiscal drains on
our economy, damage to our image among the nations of the
world and becomes a judgment against our spiritual commit-
ment.
B.
THE CRITICAL FLAW
The basic flaw rests within our urban institutions. De-
spite massive appropriations they have failed. These
activities are characterized by lack of coordination, low
aspiration and too many hand-outs. These structures have
not freed a people. They have created dependency.
"Only Utopians believe that it is possible
to create political institutions that will
guarantee personal integrity among those
in power or always produce a just result.
But in any society there are unhealthy prac-
tices to be discouraged. There are institu-
tìons that can be improved in timely fashion
or allowed to decay beyond the point of
recovery."
--New York Times
C.
NATIONAL COMMISSION FOR THE POOR
Thus the whole matter of the poor, their needs and resources
should be addressed by a concerned and knowledgeable blue
ribbon commission of citizens and religious leaders ably
staffed bit privately funded.
The commission's work would involve an analysis of the
present plight of the poor and an analysis of the government
programs relative to the poor. The commission would seek
alternative methods and solutions to deal with the needs of
the poor. But it would do so through action and example and
not just analysis and words.
We are proposing that a Presidential Commission be created
by the President. Its mission would be to bring new resources
and strategies to the ghetto.
D.
ASSETS OF RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS
The religious institutions of our nation represent an
enormous resource for helping the poor. They have
formed great assets.
1.
They already have a commission to help the poor.
They would not have to change their charter.
2.
Hundreds of congregations exist in every major
city in America and they have vast manpower and
resources.
3.
They meet each week and have the capacity to
systematically organize and motivate large
efforts to help the poor.
4.
So many of the problems of urban America are
a problem of the spirit. The task of religious
institutions is to minister to the spirit of the
people - both those who give and those who
receive.
5.
Religious institutions have enormous capacity to
influence the structures of our society. The
corporations, the political structures, the unions,
the universities are the Church. They sit in our
pews in massive numbers.
It is not that the congregations of America have not helped
the poor. It's that they have not even begun to help to
their potential. If they ever consolidate their resources
around a meaningful plan then urban impact will be awesome.
E.
GOALS OF THE COMMISSION
1.
To make the poor an important issue. The religious
leaders of the nation must begin to make the poor
a national prìority.
2.
To develop new resources for the poor. These resources
would represent the skills and resources of millions
of gifted laypersons.
3.
To construct prototypes in major urban centers. The
commission would attempt to use talented laypersons
to help make ten (10). blocks of a ghetto function.
This can be accomplished through reform of its
institutions--schools, hospitals, welfare centers,
police, etc.
4.
To disseminate successful prototypes. Once urban
prototypes are developed they need to be replicated
through each Block of each ghetto in urBan America.
The commission will accomplish this by creating
committees for the poor in each state and in each
city in America.
The time has come when the Religious Community must act.
We must challenge our urban institutions to do better at
developing human potential. That can only happen when we
first build a meaningful prototype.
Let us take 10 or 20 Blocks of Harlem or 10 or 20. Blocks of
Watts and make them work. Let us take a couple of neigh-
borhoods and pour lìfe back înto their streets. let us
consecreate those streets to God and mobilize the best brains
in Christendom to figure out how to renew those institutions.
What makes a great grade school? What makes a great hospital?
What makes a great police precinct? A great post office?
A great welfare structure? A great high school? Park?
Sanitation? Probation Office? Housing Project? Junior
High School? Small business on the corner?
Christians from all over the country. Come give your answers.
Your insights. Your experience. Teachers, police officers,
welfare workers, social workers, probation officers, nurses,
people who live in the neighborhood, come give your ideas
to these blocks. Give them to God.
Managers, administrators, come tell us how it should all
fit together. Produce a holy grid.
Let us start. Let us begin. Let us call an end to this
urban paralysis. Let us start somewhere. Make a beginning.
Let us make a small neighborhood work. Let us capture some
of the ghetto. Launch an urban Beachhead. Let us shout to
the country that the poor are no longer Helpless. We are
coming. We are bringing our best brains. Our best workers.
Our finest urban citizens. Our finest systems experts. We
will make these institutions work. We will demonstrate to the
nation what can be done. We will make the streets clean, the
schools teach, the hospital heal.
Then we will take our successful model and transplant it into
every ghetto in America. Andreproduce them over and over
again until we have reached every ghetto block.
F.
STRUCTURE OF THE COMMISSION FOR THE POOR
1.
It would need to be commissioned by the President.
The needs of the poor are that important.
2. All funding would come from the private sector.
Religious institutions could mobilize millions of
volunteers.
3. It is recommended that E. V. Hill from Mt. Zion
Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles would
chair the commission and a committee of prominent
Americans would be selected to serve as members.
4.
A small staff funded by the private sector would
coordinate the development of the national prototypes
and their replication through state and city committees
for the poor.
5. An office in the E.O.B. of the White House is requested
for the staff and a secretary. This would give prestige
and visiBility to the commission.
G.
A CALL TO URBAN PROTOTYPES
1.
The essence of management is the development of pro-
totypes. General Motors can make a million cars
because they can make one. We cannot manage our ghettos
Because we have never built successful urban prototypes
within confines of existing resources making one jail,
one high school, one neighborhood work. We must build
prototypes, no meaningful urban solution is possible
without them.
2. We would never Build a new tank without a working model.
Yet we pour Billion of dollars into unperfected urban
systems without demanding prototypes. The results are
written across the scarred face of urban America.
3. The fatal flaw is in the prototypes. If the lìberty
bell has a crack in it so will all the rest. Its
built into the model.
4.
To copy is the essence of the technological state.
We must Build urban prototypes. No meaningful solu-
tion is possible without them. Once the prototypes
are Built, they can then be replicated throughout
urban America.
5.
The only hope for the urban poor is for some force
to change the institutions that so ineffectively
serve them. The religious institutions have the
resources and mission to be that force. Its
challenge awaits expression.
RELATIONSHIP OF RELIGIOUS INSTITUTIONS TO PROTOTYPE
DEVELOPMENT
1.
We would attempt to organize the resources of four
or five congregations around each prototype. In
this way specific congregations would be helping
specific urban neighborhoods.
2.
As you replicated prototypes throughout a ghetto
you would contînue to pair clusters of churches
and synagogues with specific urban neighborhoods.
H.
ORGANIZING CONGREGATIONS
All across America congregations need to be divided up
înto their tasks and send them to share their skills
with the ghetto. Some of our suggested tasks.
Friendship - teams from the congregations would work with
the institutional leaders of the neighborhood giving
friendship and direction (example - members of the congre-
gation assist a hìgh school principal, a superintendent
of schools, a director of a welfare office).
Research and Development - to create the opportunity for
some of the creative members of the congregation to share
their skills (in such areas as education, counseling,
management, health services, etc.) with institutions within
the selected neighborhoods.
Skills - to provide a vehicle for some of the congregation
to transfer their professional skîlls (data processing,
accounting, etc.) to the institutional needs within the
selected neighborhoods.
Information - communicating the needs of the project to
the skills and concerns of the congregation.
Ministry - developing specific projects directed at the
needs of neighborhood projects.
Example - three teachers in the congregation work with a
burned out urban teacher giving her friendship and
assistance; a retired member of the church walks with
the urban postman once every three weeks and identifies
neighborhood needs which can be acted upon; a congrega-
tion member who has had two heart attacks does a seminar
in a science class at school at the point where the human
heart enters the curriculum.
If a dozen congregations organized into these task:* forces
and systematically carried out their efforts for a year,
no ghetto. would ever be the same.
I.
WORK PLAN FOR THE COMMISSION
1. Call together several hundred religious leaders in
regìonal meetings to explain program potential.
Activity completed by March 1981.
2. Research significant ìdeas to be placed înto urban
prototype development. Ideas would come from social
workers, educators, policemen, nurses, corporate
leaders, union leaders, urban citizens, college
students, etc.
Activity completed by May 1981.
3. Crìteria of success for each institutional area
established. What represents a good school, a
clean street, an adequate house, a good hospital, etc.
Activity completed May 1981.
4.
Prototype Begun in 15 blocks of several cîties.
June 1981. Activity completed May 1982.
5.
State and City Committees for the Poor built in each
state and each city in America:
Activity completed May 1982.
6.
Replication of prototypes to each neighborhood of
each ghetto in America.
Activity completed May 1984.
J.
BENEFITS OF THE COMMISSION FOR THE POOR
1.
Potential of millions of new involved citizens to
help urban America.
2. A constructive project for all the church members
who have recently become involved in the political
process. (A project for the moral majority and the
new Christian right).
3.
The potential development of new urban strategies to
help the poor.
4.
A potential for reducing the number of urban poor.
5.
Significant help to the poor could be a great cohesive
force in the life of the nation.
6.
It will cost the government no money. The whole
effort is private resource.
7. A potential vehicle for encouraging corporations
to Bring plants back înto the ghetto. So many
corporate leaders belong to our religious institu-
tions.
8. It has enormous capacity for plitical good will and
new friends for the President.
K.
OBJECTIONS TO THE PROPOSAL
1. It won't work. Nothing else has worked very well.
The ghetto attests to that. Let the religious
Institutions try. If it doesn't work, it will soon
become apparent. If it does fail it will not have
wasted government resources.
2. The concepts violate the separation of Church and
State. The framers of the Constitution did not
suggest that people of faith not help the poor.
They also could not have imagined what government
by the people and for the people would look like
in the ghetto. If they were alive today they would
write a new constitutional bill of rights.
The separation of Church and State should not be an
issue. The church members come by profession, not
just by confession. If Mr. Smith, President of a
bank, comes to the ghetto, he comes bringing his
skills. Mr. Smith is also an elder in his church.
He brings that to work with him every day. Why
shouldn't he bring it to the ghetto with him?
The church becomes that place where people organize
and energize but they come to the urban institutions
as professionals giving the poor their skills and
resources.
In the sixties we had the Kernan Commission. It was an
expression of despair. May the Commission for the poor
speak to some remarkable hope for the Eighties - "a
critical mass" bring significant help to the ghetto.
The great potential of the Church is the skills, ideas,
and influence its laymen possess. If these resources
could be applied to the institutions that serve the poor,
the impact would be awesome.
"I want you to share your food with the hungry
and bring right înto your own homes those who
are helpless, poor, and destitute
Your sons
will rebuild the long-deserted ruins of your
cities, and you will be known as "The people
who rebuild their walls and cities."
Isaiah 58:7,12
100
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D. C.20510
ROGER W. JEPSEN
IOWA
March 5, 1981
Mrs. Robert Dole
Assistant to the President
for Public Affairs
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Elizabeth:
As Dee mentioned when we visited with you and Bob at the
hospital Sunday, we have been made aware of a most re-
freshing idea, the "Foundation for the Poor." If
Since you evidenced interest in receiving more information
on this program, Dee contacted Morton Blackwell of your
staff. Morton has expressed a willingness to discuss
the merits of such a program with one of the originators,
Robert Pittinger. This idea would effectively address
the issue of poverty at no cost to the federal government.
Your interest in this worthy effort is greatly appreciated,
and I believe that if you look into it further you will
be amazed at the potential of such an idea. If I can be
of further assistance as you review the plan, please do
not hesitate to contact me.
With kindest personal regards,
Roger
Roger W. Jepsen
Enclosures
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D. C. 20510
ROGER W. JEPSEN
IOWA
March 12, 1981
Mr. James A. Baker III
Chief of Staff and Assistant
to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Jim:
We would like to bring to your attention an exciting new
idea -- The Foundation for the Poor. In addition, we
want to lend our endorsement to a creative, innovative
proposal: a national commission for the poor.
The Foundation for the Poor was formed by an enterprising
group of concerned and committed Christians led by Dr. E. V.
Hill, Harv Oostdyk, Robert Pittinger, Arch Decker, Clint
Murchison, and Holly Coors, among others. They are
endeavoring to reach out to the truly poor and needy,
assisting them in becoming self-sufficient whenever possible,
and restoring their self-esteem. The vehicle they are using
are the churches of America, with technical and financial
assistance coming from individuals and businesses in the
private sector. This "at home" mission field has not
received adequate attention from the local churches in
recent years. This group challenges and assists them in
becoming involved.
Significantly, this group is urging the creation of a
national commission for the poor to further the movement
of new and private resources into the inner cities, without
the investment of any government funds. The formation of
such a group by President Reagan would do much to inspire
and encourage Americans to reach out to their less
fortunate brothers and sisters within their own communities.
As we are all aware, due to the mobility of today's society,
the breakdown of the family unit, and the loss of a
"sense of community," there is an insensitivity to the
needs of our fellow man.
Mr. James A. Baker
Page 2
March 12, 1981
By adopting this proposal, we believe that the Administration
could take the leadership in offsetting the actual, as well
as psychological, effects of the unavoidable belt-tightening
which the government must do in relationship to certain
social programs. It would, in addition, foster a spiritual
and moral renewal of the compassionate spirit which is the
heritage of the American people.
We therefore suggest the following:
1. A meeting with the leadership of The Foundation for
the Poor, to outline the concept and its feasibility,
with Elizabeth Dole and her staff (who have been
receptive of this proposal), Secretary Schweiker,
a representative of President Reagan, and interested
members of Congress.
2. Consideration of a proposed list of Commission members
with Dr. E. V. Hill as Chairman.
3. An office in the Executive Office Building for liaison
with the Administration upon the appointment of the
Commission.
Enclosed you will find details of this proposal which we
urge you to consider.
Sincerely,
Mark O. Hatfield
Builimor Roger W. Zepsen
William Armstrong
Jesse Helms Helms
file
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D. C.20510
ROGER W. JEPSEN
IOWA
March 12, 1981
Mr. Edwin Meese III
Counsellor to the President
The White House
Washington, D. C. 20500
Dear Ed:
We would like to bring to your attention an exciting new
idea -- The Foundation for the Poor. In addition, we
want to lend our endorsement to a creative, innovative
proposal: a national commission for the poor.
The Foundation for the Poor was formed by an enterprising
group of concerned and committed Christians led by Dr. E. V.
Hill, Harv Oostdyk, Robert Pittinger, Arch Decker, Clint
Murchison, and Holly Coors, among others. They are
endeavoring to reach out to the truly poor and needy,
assisting them in becoming self-sufficient whenever possible,
and restoring their self-esteem. The vehicle they are using
are the churches of America, with technical and financial
assistance coming from individuals and businesses in the
private sector. This "at home" mission field has not
received adequate attention from the local churches in
recent years. This group challenges and assists them in
becoming involved.
Significantly, this group is urging the creation of a
national commission for the poor to further the movement
of new and private resources into the inner cities, without
the investment of any government funds. The formation of
such a group by President Reagan would do much to inspire
and encourage Americans to reach out to their less
fortunate brothers and sisters within their own communities.
As we are all aware, due to the mobility of today's society,
the breakdown of the family unit, and the loss of a
"sense of community," there is an insensitivity to the
needs of our fellow man.
Mr. Edwin Meese
Page 2
March 12, 1981
By adopting this proposal, we believe that the Administration
could take the leadership in offsetting the actual, as well
as psychological, effects of the unavoidable belt-tightening
which the government must do in relationship to certain
social programs. It would, in addition, foster a spiritual
and moral renewal of the compassionate spirit which is the
heritage of the American people.
We therefore suggest the following:
1. A meeting with the leadership of The Foundation for
the Poor, to outline the concept and its feasibility,
with Elizabeth Dole and her staff (who have been
receptive of this proposal), Secretary Schweiker,
a representative of President Reagan, and interested
members of Congress.
2. Consideration of a proposed list of Commission members
with Dr. E. V. Hill as Chairman.
3. An office in the Executive Office Building for liaison
with the Administration upon the appointment of the
Commission.
Enclosed you will find details of this proposal which we
urge you to consider.
Sincerely,
Roger V. Jepsen Mark O. Hatfield
Ban
William Armstrong
Jesse Jesse Helms Helms
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
FOUNDATION FOR THE POOR MEETING, Friday April 3,1981.
Diana lozano- opened meeting, introduced the members of the staff
that were there.
Red Caveney- More detailed guidelines needed to be intoduced , by
the Foundation for the Poor, to the OPL.
The Rev. E.V. Mill , would like the President to identify the
problems of the poor people. He wants the President to take a
stand on the poor. He said that the poor need to help themselfs
as much as possible.
The Foundation will be setting two prototype programs in Las Angeles,
and in Dallas Texas. The results of these programs will be present
in two months.
Red assigned Dorkas Hardy, from H.H.S. to be the contact person.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR JEWISH MEMBERS ON THE COMMITTEE
campany a Cabinet
Dr. Stanley Margulies
4350 Player Street
1976-1978- United
Hollywood, Florida 33021
Hyped
305-987-2000
strong Reagan Supporter
High name recognition
community credibility
Lyles Ryter
Confidential Asst. to the Asst.
Secretary of Commerce
9537 White Cedar Court
Vienna, Virginia 22180
377-1461 (b)
484-6650 (r)
Eli Jacobs
2049 Century Park East
Los Angeles, California 90067
Jews for Reagan-Bush
Jack May, President
May Hosiery
Nashville, Tennessee
615-242-1611
Harry Levitch
International Vice President
of B'nai Brith
901-761-1188
Menachem Lubinski
Agudath Israel
212-791-1844
Lewis Lehrman
Chairman of the Board, Rite Aid Corporation
212-759-8534
mark O. HATFIELD
OREGON
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510
May 4, 1981
Ms. Diana Lozano
Deputy Director
Office of Public Liaison
Room 128 OEOB
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Diana:
Attached please find Senator Mark Hatfield's
suggestions for the Task Force commissioners.
It is our concern that we range a bit further
than just our small circle to find qualified
people to make certain that we have a broad se-
lection of candidates from all sectors of the
social services
health, education, corporate
world, community services, criminal justice
reform, etc.
Your leadership in this project has been very
much appreciated.
Sincerely com Selme
Tom Getman, Leg. Dir. to
Sen. Mark O. Hatfield
MARK O. HATFIELD
OREGON
United States Senate
WASHINGTON, D.C.
May 5, 1981
Ms. Diana Lozano
Deputy Director
Office of Public Liaison
Room 128 OEOB
Washoington, DC 20500
Dear Diana:
Here are several more possible Commissioners:
1. Dr. Sybil Mobley - Dean, Florida A & M School of Business, Tallahassee
2. Ms. Dorothy Ann Davis McKinney - Chairperson, Capitol Area Food Bank,
Washington, DC
3. Mr. James Bere - President, Borg-Warner, Chicago, Ill.
4. Professor Raymond Bakke - Urbanologist, Chicago, Ill.
5. Melvin Sabshin, MD - Medical Director of American Psychiatric Asso,
Washington, DC
Senator Hatfield's suggestions for titles for the Task Force:
1. PACES - President's Action Council for Economic Relief
2. APPEAR - Action Program for Providing Economic Advantage Responsibly
3. COVER - Council on Vital Economic Relief
4. RESTORE - Responsible Economic Support to Restore (Equity?)
5. REACH - Restoring Economic Advantages ?
?
Thanks again.
Sincerely
com
Tom Getman, Chief Leg Asst to
Senator Mark O. Hatfield
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 22, 1981
file
FOUNDATION FOR THE POOR
Tuesday, April 28, 1981, 4 P.M., room 132
To discuss formation of Presidential Advisory Commission on
Urban Volunteers
INVITEES:
Carl Anderson
Mel Bradley
Dorcas Hardy
Mrs. Roger Jepsen
Tom Getman
Thelma Duggin
Red Cavaney
Tom Pauken
Jim Johnson
Lobbyist for xerox
Herb Ellingwood
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
September 24, 1981
TO:
Elizabeth H. Dole
FROM: Morton C. Blackwell
RE:
Christian Legal Society
The Christian Legal Society was organized twenty years ago
and is near Chicago in Oak Park. The membership is 3,500,
largely composed of Catholic, protestant, orthodox and
recently converted christians.
This group is actively involved in the expansion of freedom
of religion and for that purpose has estabished the Center
for Law and Religious Freedom, concentrating in the appellate
field. Other principal activities include aternatives to the
court system such as mdeiation and other types of conciliation
processes at no cost.
Herb Ellingwood is the immediate past national president.
The current president is Jay Poppinga who is from Delaware.
Copy sent to
MEMO
EHD 9/24/81
TO: MORTON BLACKWELL
FROM: ROBERT PITTENGER
RE: STEP FOUNDATION REPORT
DATE: SEPTEMBER 24, 1981
STEP FOUNDATION - STRATEGIES TO ELIMINATE POVERTY
1.
Principal Leadership - Mrs. Joseph Coors, Mr. Bunker Hunt, Clint Murchison,
Mary Crowley, E. V. Hill, Bill Bright, Billy Graham, Pat Robertson, James
Robison, Jerry Falwell, Rev. Don Moomaw, W. A. Criswell.
2.
STEP FOUNDATION is committed to the local churches with support from para-
church organizations such as Billy Graham or Campus Crusade. The local church
has the manpower and the mandate to help the poor. Most every volunteer effort
breaks down because the volunteers lose their motivation or they are difficult
to organize. The local church contains the creative genius of the business community
and the lay workforce to accomplish the objective. They meet weekly which facilitates
their ability to organize and because there are over 400 passages in the Bible
relating to the poor, church members can easily be motivated to take action.
There are approximately 100 million people who attend a religious congregation
weekly and millions more who will be involved through television ministriés.
3.
Prototypes are being developed in Los Angeles, Denver, and Dallas, and New York.
Approximately 5, 000 volunteers will be organized in each prototype.
After the prototypes are developed, STEP will expand to other cities. Dallas
structures will be completed December 1981, Los Angeles and Denver - May 1982,
New York - Fall 1982.
4.
In the Dallas prototype committes have been established in local congregations
relating to drugs, housing, jobs, education and welfare. Ten churches have
their respective committees and there is a chairman who coordinates the churches
in each related area. Dallas Theological Seminary with over 1, 000 students is
located in the heart of the project and has committed the active involvement of the
seminary. Mary Crowley who has 35,000 women employed with her company through-
out the country is organizing the Dorcas Program in Dallas. This effort will organize
various church, civic and other women groups. Bunker Hunt has given $1 million
to organize training centers in the prototype cities and ten other cities to organize
the church laity in their efforts to give spiritual and meaningful physical and personal
support to the inner cities.
In each prototype there are ten suburban churches selected who will work through
the leadership of one key inner city church. Dr. B. Clayton Bell, Senior Minister,
Highland Park Presbyterian Church in Dallas, gives leadership to the suburban churches
and Rev. E. K. Bailey is the key inner city pastor who coordinates the involvement
of other inner city churches.
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 23, 1981
TO:
JACK BURGESS
FROM:
MORTON BLACKWELL m
RE:
Proposed list of Church leaders
Below are my suggestions for church leaders to meet with the
President in August regarding plans for involvement of religious
organizations in voluntary activism.
All of these leaders have expressed interest in encouraging
voluntarism.
Bill Bright
President, Campus Crusade for Christ
San Bernadino, California
Jerry Falwell
Thomas Road Baptist Church
Lynchburg, Virginia
Billy Graham
Montreat, North Carolina
Joseph A. Hargrove
National Executive Committee, Protestant Episcopal Church
Shreveport, Louisiana
E. V. Hill
Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church
Los Angeles, California
Stanley Margulies
United Jewish Appeal
Hollywood, Florida
Don Moomaw
Bel Air Presbyterian Church
Los Angeles, California
Pat Robertson
Christian Broadcasting Network
Norfolk, Virginia
James Robison
Hurst, Texas
Adrian Rogers
Bellevue Baptist Church
Memphis, Tennessee
MEMORANDUM
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
-2-
Bishop Thomas Welsh
Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Arlington, Virginia
Bill Bright
Bishop Thomas Welsh
President, Campus Crusade for Christ
Suite 7041
Arrow Spring Road
200 North Glebe Road
San Bernadino, California
Arlington, VA 22203
(714) 886-5224
(703) 841-2531
Jerry Falwell
Thomas Road Baptist Church
701 Thomas Road
Lynchburg, Virginia
(804) 239-9281
Billy Graham
1300 Harmon Place
Minneapolis, MN 55403
(612) 338-0500
Joseph A. Hargrove
National Executive Committee, Protestant Episcopal Church
700 Commercial National Bank Building
Shreveport, Louisiana 71101
(318) 221-1537
E. V. Hill
Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church
1300-1308 East 50th Street
Los Angeles, California 90011
(213) 235-2103
Stanley Margulies
4350 Player Street
Hollywood, Florida
(305) 987-2000
Don Moomaw
Bel Air Presbyterian Church
16221 Mulholland Drive
Los Angeles, California
(213) 788-4200
Pat Robertson
Christian Broadcasting Network
Centerville Turnpike
Indian River Road
Norfolk, Virginia
(804) 628-0700
James Robison
1801 West Euless Roulevard
Hurst, Texas
(817) 267-4211
Adrian Rogers
Bellevue Baptist Church
Memphis, Tennessee
due
5:00 Input from
inf COB alw
THE WHITE HOUSE Matm thelma
WASHINGTON
PRESIDENTIAL TASK FORCE ON PRIVATE SECTOR INITIATIVES
Objectives:
To explore, discover and promote private sector
leadership and responsibility for solving public
needs.
To provide a focal point for private sector action
addressing public problems.
To recommend to the President appropriate actions
within his responsibility to foster greater public-
private partnerships and a decreasing dependence on
government.
Membership: A diverse group of opinion leaders and individuals
who are committed to a strong private sector.
Invitees
Comments
1.
Thomas W. Pauken
Chief government advocate
Director
for voluntarism
ACTION
2.
Hon. George Romney
Chief advocate for
Chairman
voluntarism in the
National Center for Citizen
private sector
Involvement
3. William R. Baroody, Jr.
Major study of private
President
sector initiatives
American Enterprise Institute
4.
James Henry
Entire organization devoted
President
to private sector initiativ
Center for Public Resources
5.
William Norris
Founder, City Ventures
Chairman
Leader in finding markets
Control Data Corporation
in public problems
6. John Filer
Chairman, NAB
Chairman
Founder, Clearinghouse on
Aetna Casualty & Life
Corporate Social
Responsibility
7.
Terrance Cardinal Cooke
Strong supporter of private
The Archbishop of New York
sector initiatives
Invitees
Comments
8. Dr. Henry Lucas, Jr.
New Conservative Black
Chairman
Group
New Coalition for Economic
& Social Change
9.
William S. White
Biggest private foundation
President
supporter of private secto
C. S. Mott Foundation
action
10.
Juan Patlan
A "convert" to the private
President
sector approach
Mexican American Unity Council
?
11.
Hon. John Y. Brown
Representing the States
Governor
State of Kentucky
12. Robert D. Lilley
Private sector community
Chairman
investment mechanism
Local Initiatives Support Corp.
widely endorsed
13.
Hon. David F. Durenberger
Strongly urging private
Senator, Minnesota
sector alternatives
14.
Donald Kendall
Chairman, U. S. Chamber
Chairman
cc
of Commerce
PepsiCo
15. Clifton Chairman Garvin BeT
Chairman
Business Roundtable
Exxon
16.
Arthur Levitt
Committed to encouraging
Chairman
member company action
American Stock Exchange
17. William Aramony
Largest fundraising
President
organization for voluntary
United Way of America
organizations
18. Cornell C. Maier
Jobs Program and corporat
Chairman
action
Kaiser Aluminum & Chemical
19.
Margaret Graham
Large traditional volunte
?
Chairman
network
Assoc. of Junior Leagues
Invitees
Comments
20.
Rev. Leon Sullivan
Nationwide private sector
Founder
jobs program
OIC
21.
James Rouse
Developer of inner cities
?
President
for commercial purposes
Rouse Development Corporation
22.
Michael Joyce
Strong conservative
Executive Director
foundation
John M. Olin Foundation
23.
Marvel Collins
Celebrated "back to basics
Founder
school
West Side Preparatory School
24.
Kenneth Olson
Builds plants in urban
?
President
areas
Digital Equipment Corporation
25.
Franklin Murphy
Strong foundation leader
Chairman
Times Mirror Foundation
26.
Dee Jepson
Alternative approach to
Foundation for the Poor
serving communities
Des Moines, Iowa
27.
William R. Bricker
Looking for new ways to
National Director
Boys Club of America
28.
Spencer Kimball
Large religious movement
Mormom Church
committed to strong privat
sector
29.
Stanley Margulies
Umbrella Jewish Community
United Jewish Appeal
Action Agency
30.
Martin A. Paley
Fastest growing community
President
foundation
The San Francisco Foundation
31. Dr. David E. Rogers
Second largest private
President
foundation. Largest
The Robert Wood Foundation
special interest foundatic
-- health field
Invitees
Comments
32. Rev. Billy Graham
Influential religious leader
ALTERNATES
1.
Richard Cornuelle
Long involved voluntarism
Author
Reclaiming the American Dream
2.
Alexander Trowbridge
President
National Association of
Manufacturers
3.
Robert Holland
Resource for economic
President
analysis
Council for Economic Development
4.
John Gardner
Largest voluntary organiza-
Chairman
tion
Independent Sector
5.
Roderick Mac Arthur
Soon to be largest private
Chairman
foundation investing in
Mac Arthur Foundation
private sector initiatives
6.
Jane Pickens Hoving
Successful volunteer
Founder
placement group
Tune-In-America
7.
Father Bruce Ritter
Strong proponent of private
Covenant House
sector action
8.
J. Carter Brown
Cultural issues
Director
National Gallery
9.
Don Mooman
Strong supporter of P.S.I.
Pastor
Bel Air Presbyterian Church
10.
Sister Falah Fattah
Youth leader
House of Umoja
Invitees
Comments
11. Fletcher L. Byrom
Maverick CEO
Chairman
Koppers Corporation
12. David Mathews
Ford HEW Secretary, newly
President
appointed foundation chief
Kettering Foundation
13. Rev. Jerry Falwell
14. E. V. Hill
Mt. Zion Baptist Church
15. Bill Bright
Campus Crusade for Christ
16. Leslie Luttgens
Chairman
Council on Foundations
file
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
October 7, 1981
you the
Poor
Dear Gentlemen:
For the last six months, I have enjoyed my close
communications with you and others in the STEP Foundation.
Many of us in the Administration are greatly encouraged
by your efforts.
I believe that you have found the greatest pool of
largely untapped resources which can be of assistance
to those who live in poverty in our country. That pool
of resources is, of course, to be found in local religious
congregations throughout America. I believe that you
and those participating with you have the vision and
leadership required to help wake up Americans to the
opportunities for private, voluntary action to help the
needy.
I stand ready to be of help in all appropriate ways
to encourage your efforts, and I especially look forward
to the success of your prototypes in Dallas, Los Angeles,
and Denver. Recognition resulting from your pilot efforts
will encourage use of these volunteer support strategies
in other cities.
Cordially,
Morton e. Blacknell
Morton C. Blackwell
Special Assistant to
the President
Dr. E.V. Hill, President
Mr. Robert Pittenger, Executive Director
STEP Foundation
1495 Chain Bridge Road Suite 200
Mac Lean, VA 22101