This report explores the effectiveness of initiatives to promote marriage in the United States. It begins by discussing President Bush’s Health Marriage Initiative, the support of proponents, and the criticisms of opponents. Research findings on the benefits of marriage are shared, including benefits for children and for adults. The report then explores how marriage promotion programs should be implemented and reviews findings on targeted low-income parents. Findings indicate unwed parents generally have strong bonds at the time of the child’ s birth contrary to stereotypes that these couples relationships are more casual. The need for marriage promotion programs to capitalize on this window of opportunity to build lasting relationships is highlighted. The report also reviews research findings surrounding the issue of who should implement marriage promotion programs, and the involvement of faith-based organizations. Findings indicate unmarried parents who expressed an interest in relationship and marriage services felt most comfortable receiving them through a faith-based organization. It is also reported that attitudes of several pastors at black church conferences on marriage promotion indicate they want to take the lead in discussions about health marriages, rather than the government. The need for more information to determine whether current marriage promotion programs are working is stressed. 41 references.