Social Concerns Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Social Concerns do?

A: We work with interested individuals and like-minded organizations to change and improve State laws, regulations, and policies to benefit vulnerable Marylanders.

Q: What are the issues you work on?

A: We work on issues facing the people who come every day to Catholic Charities many programs – aging, living with developmental disabilities, child abuse and neglect, and the inter-related issues of poverty. For example, we work on affordable housing, welfare reform, foster care, and prescription drug coverage for seniors – just to name a few.

Q: What do you mean by “the inter-related issues of poverty”?

A: We mean the various factors that are challenges for people living in or near poverty – like experiencing homelessness, finding affordable housing, paying the cost of utilities, working for low wages or temporarily needing welfare, having adequate nutrition and health care, obtaining affordable child care, and receiving benefits that help fill gaps.

Q: How do you make a difference?

A: Social Concerns makes a difference because:

• We work in coalitions with like-minded organizations and faith communities to develop agendas and strategies that will effect change.
• We serve on and advocate before community-based and state advisory groups, boards, and commissions.
• We make presentations to community groups on topics such as “The Importance of Advocacy” and “Living in Poverty” to help people better understand the issues and encourage them to take action.
• We make the experience of Catholic Charities clients and staff available to policymakers, to help inform their decisions.
• We develop educational materials and opportunities for policymakers and the general public to better understand the issues facing vulnerable Marylanders.

Q: Are you lobbyists?

A: Yes. Anyone who represents an issue or issues before the Maryland General Assembly and receives $2,500 or more in compensation is required to register as a lobbyist. Two Catholic Charities employees are registered lobbyists.

Q: Do you work with members of Congress in Washington, DC?

A: While we sometimes participate in federal advocacy efforts and encourage others to do so, we focus our efforts on Maryland state policy.

How can we help you?  
 
Contact Regan Vaughan at rvaughan@cc-md.org. She’ll be happy to speak with you.