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Horizon and ACS Form Strategic Partnership

(The Business Monthly) -- The Horizon Foundation and the Association of Community Services (ACS) have formed a unique strategic partnership designed to enhance the capabilities of both organizations. The partnership includes the development of a Policy Analysis Center and the move by both organizations to new, contiguous offices.

“The ACS/Horizon Strategic Partnership is an exciting move for both organizations,” said Richard M. Krieg, president and CEO of The Horizon Foundation. “It results from discussions about the challenges facing local human service organizations and the strong interest of Horizon and ACS to confront them. It also recognizes that ACS, an ongoing grantee, has become a center of excellence here in the county.”

Roy Appletree, president of the board of ACS, noted that this new partnership is part of an ongoing relationship between the two organizations. “However, this new mutual investment, particularly in the Policy Analysis Center, will allow ACS to expand its efforts in the policy arena.” He noted that ACS has appreciated the capacity building support the foundation has provided over the years.

The primary goal of the partnership, he noted, is to improve the ability to conduct analyses that respond to the needs of Howard County human service organizations. The Policy Analysis Center, focusing on policy research, analysis, evaluation and data collection, may also be available to assist other parties as they consider directions in improving human service provision. “For example,” Krieg said, “I’ve briefly discussed the Policy Center with County Executive Ken Ulman, who is a strong supporter of the human services sector.”

A steering committee composed of members from ACS and The Horizon Foundation will be developing the scope of Center operations in the coming months. The move of ACS and the Foundation to neighboring quarters in the Parkside Building on Little Patuxent Parkway will take place in May of this year. The Policy Analysis Center will be housed in the ACS offices.

ACS is a network of human service providers, community and faith-based organizations, government agencies and community advocates. It works to advance human services through advocacy, education and services that help members do their work more effectively. For more information about ACS, visit www.acshoco.org.

The Horizon Foundation is a $92 million philanthropy that addresses health and wellness issues through strategic grantmaking and partnerships with private and public institutions. For more information, visit www.thehorizonfoundation.org.