Although there are an endless number of potential variations, under the basic voucher model, government does not provide funds directly to any service provider; rather, a government agency provides a “voucher” to an individual beneficiary, such as a recovering addict, homeless individual, or child in need of mentoring. This individual may choose to redeem the voucher for services at any number of service providers. 

Choice-based models, such as vouchers, allow government to tap into the broadest possible diversity of service styles and approaches. In addition, because clients—not government—are making the choice as to which organization will receive the funds, Establishment Clause concerns are obviated. 

This choice-based delivery system allows flexibility and freedom to both recipients and providers, and enables groups that might otherwise be disinclined to partner with government to consider doing so. Because clients have free and independent choice among providers, organizations are free to include faith-related content in programs. This allows a recipient to choose the provider best suited to his or her unique needs. The fact that participants are allowed choice also encourages greater engagement by recipients of aid in their own life changes because the expectation is that they will take ownership in choosing the services they will receive. 

Access to Recovery (ATR) is an example of a large-scale, choice-based program. Launched by President Bush in 2003, ATR provides approximately $100 million annually in competitive grants to States and some tribal authorities, which use the funds to create voucher-based programs for substance abuse recovery. Through ATR, almost 5,000 organizations partnered with government to address addiction issues—many of these organizations for the first time. For example, in Connecticut, 40% of the organizations redeeming vouchers were first-time partners; in Louisiana, this number was 70%.

To date, ATR has helped nearly 270,000 individuals along the road to recovery. In the first three years of the program, more than 1,000 secular nonprofits and 1,000 faith-based organizations participate as service providers, many partnering with government for the first time.