Regional Interfaith Chaplaincy Services Program (RICS) is a regional ministry of Pastoral Care, Education, and Research. It is a non-sectarian, 501(c)(3) social service organization designed to promote the promise of hope, healing, wholeness, and balance to institutionalized persons living in southwestern Pennsylvania.

 

First envisioned as a concept in 1998, and it was formally established in the spring of 1999 under the leadership of the Rev. David C. Baker, Ph.D., its president and director. RICS’ leadership and supporters are comprised of laity and clergy from a variety of denominations. Today, the vision of providing spiritual care for all of God’s "oldest friends" in long-term care facilities has evolved into a growing agency that provides direct care services, educational programs, and pastoral care research.