County Executive Robert P. Astorino today announced the appointment of Carrie Mobley-Johnson to head up the Faith-Based Partnership initiative he created in his first term to help faith leaders and their affiliated organizations cut through government red tape, share information and better serve the local communities where they are located.

Mobley-Johnson joins Astorino's executive staff, effective immediately, and succeeds Rosa Boone who will continue to serve as Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Social Services. Mobley-Johnson previously worked for the New York State Senate where she was the Director of Faith-Based Initiatives. She held a similar position in the New York City Council and also previously worked for Congressman Joe Crowley (D-Queens).

"Carrie Mobley-Johnson is a dynamic hire for the county and she will be my top point of contact for the large faith-based community in Westchester, ensuring the county is at the forefront in developing and delivering solutions to combat hunger, addiction, homelessness and to empower through educational and job opportunities," said Astorino. "I thank Rosa Boone for helping me launch the initiative and excelling in her dual role. Going forward, this role will benefit from being the single responsibility of one individual. I'm confident Carrie will continue to strengthen the initiative and continue bringing results for communities all throughout the county."

Modeled after similar initiatives started by Presidents Bush and Obama, Astorino created the Faith-Based Partnership in early 2013, as a way to formalize a relationship with faith-based leaders who often are the first ones many turn to when in trouble or in need. Astorino said shared values of care, compassion, character and life-skills development and empowerment cuts across all religions.

"We wanted to partner with those on the front lines," said Astorino. "Our non-profits do a great job and have the experience to navigate government resources and the formalized relationships already with the county. We wanted a similar relationship with the faith-based community."

"I'm humbled by the opportunity to serve Westchester's faith based community under the leadership of County Executive Astorino," said Carrie Mobley-Johnson. "He is a true man of faith who has the compassion to help others. By design of this office, religious leaders will be able to directly engage county leadership to streamline their efforts to uplift those in need. This policy alignment advances the county's commitment to enhance quality of life for all," said Mobley-Johnson.

To learn more about the Faith-Based Partnership visit: www.westchestergov.com/Faith.