San Antonio Faith-Based Initiative’s casaLAB event on Jan. 29, 2019, featured Ben O’Dell, Faith Liaison with the Department of Health & Human Services in D.C.
The casaLABs – Compassion Action San Antonio Labs – explore proven ways to become more compassionate toward ourselves and others and improve the lives of families and communities most in need.
Ben O’Dell’s presentation at the Little Carver theater covered:
- Why faith & society intersection is critical to compassionate service,
- How that works best,
- Research and valuable models across the U.S.
Ben O’Dell is a recognized expert on facilitating partnerships between faith-based, philanthropic, and community organizations and government at all levels. Ben’s interest in strengthening local faith-based and community leaders and community engagement principles to religious, community, and government interest has led him to develop deep relationships, knowledge, and expertise on a broad range of issues from strengthening fathers and families to strategies for bringing groups together in collaborative networks. Throughout his 14-year tenure in the Center, Ben served in many roles including as Designated Federal Officer to the President’s Advisory Council of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, a 25 member council of faith and community leaders making recommendations to the President and the White House. Ben received his Master’s Degree in Organizational Development and Knowledge Management in 2007 from the School of Public Policy at George Mason University. Ben resides outside of Washington, D.C. with his wife, Kristin, and practices his own personal fatherhood initiatives with their two kids.
