In the implementation of the VOTF Accountability campaigns, VOTF affiliates surveyed their dioceses to assess the extent to which they were employing best practices in the areas of:
- Child Protection and Survivor Support
- Financial Accountability
- Church Governance
Of the 175 dioceses in the United States, 57 have VOTF affiliates. 34 dioceses had been surveyed by the time of the VOTF national convention, October 19, 2007.
Although every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of this data, some of the questions entailed subjective evaluations, and people of good will may differ in their assessment. In addition, some diocesan personnel were very cooperative in sharing information and some websites very complete regarding the information VOTF was seeking. Others were less so. Summary statements reflect the perception of the diocese by VOTF members who generally reflect the view of active, committed Catholics in the diocese. Remember also, that some dioceses will improve and others regress. This is an ongoing project. Your feedback is welcome
This is only the start of this project, however. The goal is to survey the majority of the dioceses in the U.S.A. This will give VOTF a more accurate overview of compliance with VOTF goals as well as help affiliates assess the strengths and weaknesses of their own diocese. Your help is needed to:
- Review your own diocese for accuracy and completeness. Please send any updates to the national VOTF office, diocesansurveys@yahoo.com.
- Volunteer to survey missing dioceses. Contact Sheila Connors Grove scgrove@comcast.net for directions. Minimum effort needed would be to review diocesan web sites for the necessary information and to consult with a VOTF affiliate in the diocese if one exists.
Information is power. Help VOTF gather accurate information about your diocese, then press for your diocese to address any weak areas.
