Empowered Newsletter | March 2024 | Issue 3 | |
Staff members Edi Palau,Sharon Goodson, Krystina Dillard and Frankie Miller at NCAP's Management and Leadership Training Conference in Las Vegas last month | |
HEAL NC Program to Begin Work
NCCAA Awarded Duke Endowment Grant
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We’re pleased to announce that the NCCAA is recipient of a $774,000 grant from The Duke Endowment to fund HEAL NC, a pilot program in eastern North Carolina providing intervention support for young children and their families who have multiple risk factors and where children are at-risk for displacement from the family home.
READ MORE HERE
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Our 2024 Conference in Cherokee will celebrate the
60th Anniversary of the NCCAA and the
Community Action Movement
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Registration Fees:
Regular rates end Friday, March 22
Regular Member Rate - $550
Regular Non-Member Rate - $625
Late Rates (after Friday March 22, 2024)
Late Registration Member Rate - $675
Late Registration Non-Member Rate - $775
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Celebrating 60 Years of Community Action
2024 NCCAA Annual Conference. Sign Up Now!
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Join your colleagues and other non-profit professionals from across North Carolina for a week of plenary sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities. We foster collaboration and focused attention on the diverse faces of poverty in North Carolina while promoting positive change in our communities.
Regular Registration Rates End Friday, March 22
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Annual Award Nominations End Friday, 3/8 | |
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Standing awards are an important part of our annual conference each year.
Please take time to submit a nomination from your agency!
All nominations must be received by 11:59PM on Friday March 8, 2024
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Show your gratitude and let team members from the boardroom to the mailroom know you value what they do. Nominate one person who exemplifies "the heart" of community action at your organization! | Lonnie D. Burton Achievement Award | The Lonnie D. Burton Achievement Award is presented annually to an individual who, through the assistance of a Community Action Program, has achieved a significant level of self-sufficiency and independence, while recognition is given to the Agency’s role. | |
The Gloria M. Williams Award is presented annually to a corporation, foundation, or other valuable partner that has advanced the cause of the North Carolina Community Action Association or one of its members. | Roselle Copeland Stewardship Award | This award focuses on exemplary individual contributions to the Association, the local community or agency and/or the low-income community at large. | |
Conference Speaker Preview | |
Keynote Speaker: Dennis Gaddy
Since the inception of Community Success Initiative (communitysuccess.org) in 2004, Dennis Gaddy has been the driving force behind policy change and innovative reentry initiatives not just in Wake County, but across the state of North Carolina. He began his mission before reentry was a consideration in the public perspective and its impacts on our economy, the public assistance system, and the collective impacts on our communities were evaluated. He initiated the first real legislative policy changes regarding reentry with State Representative Garland Pierce and State Senator David Guice, he worked with Wake County Commissioners Jessica Holmes and James West to support the “Ban The Box” initiative that first removed background checks prior to qualification consideration in the employment application process for Wake County, and is the revered community leader of choice in field of social justice and reentry reform initiatives.
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Dr. Lorenzo Claxton, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Denise Harlow, CCAP, NCRT, National Community Action Partnership
Charisse Johnson, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Marionna Poke-Stewart, NC Department of Health and Human Services
Patricia Beier, MSA, CCAP, WAGES, Inc.
Dr. Michael Boone, i5O Consulting Services, LLC
Rebecca Cerese, NC Justice Center
Drew Corbett, Piedmont Triad Regional Council
Celeste A. Gore-Purcell, NC Department of Health and Human Services
Whitley Grant-Goodman, The Melanated Space, PLLC
Julie N. Jakopic, iLead Strategies, LLC
L. Macy Jones, NC Department of Public Instruction
Kevin Scott, Piedmont Triad Regional Council
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Legislative Update
David Bradley is one of Washington’s leading advocates on behalf of low-income programs. In 1981, David helped found the National Community Action Foundation (NCAF). Funded solely by non-governmental contributions, NCAF represents funding and policy interests of the nation’s 1000 Community Action Agencies before Congress and the Executive Branch. David currently acts as NCAF's Chief Executive Officer.
His updates are an invaluable addition to our conferences.
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Board Summit
Dr. Angela I Gustus, is the CEO / Co-Owner of multiple businesses that fall under the umbrella of The CMAG Group. Additionally, she has published four books focused on personal and professional growth.
Board Summit Topics
- The Role of the Board of Directors
- Building Capacity
- Understanding Financial Statements for the Non-Accountant
- Leadership Development: How to Build an Effective
- Leadership Development Program
- Succession Planning
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Pre-Conference Workshop
Dr. LaDrea Ingram is a distinguished scholar and transformational leader whose work is centered on fostering community resilience, collective healing, and the pursuit of justice.
Workshop Topic
I AM A WELL for Wellness: Self-Care as the Innate Prescription for Resilience and Transformative Power of Pause, Parts I & 2
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Lace 'em Up! It's Time for the Sneaker Ball!
Registration is open for the Sneaker Ball, to be held in conjunction with the NCCAA's 2024 Annual Conference at Harrah's Cherokee Casino in May.
Join us for a night of celebration as we mark the 60th Anniversary of the Community Action movement! Prepare to lace up your sneakers for a cause and commemorate six decades of positive change.
Learn More & Register!
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Socks and Stuff: A Conference Donation Drive
Join us for a donation drive for the homeless population in the far western counties of Cherokee, Clay, Graham and Swain. This year's theme is Socks and Stuff. Please remember to bring your donations to the registration desk when you sign in:
Socks, Soap, Deodorant, Feminine products,
Travel-size bath and body items
These may be small items to us. To someone living on the street, they are uplifting and pragmatic reminders of our shared humanity. How much better does it feel to go into the world with clean socks and fresh breath? Donations will be distributed by Four Square Community Action.
If you have any questions please reach out to Peg Morrison at peg.morrison@nccaa.net.
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Donor Spotlight: Harrahs Cherokee Casinos | | |
Dr. Andrea Harris Community Action and Leadership Scholarship
The NCCAA is proud to award its annual scholarship in honor of the late Dr. Andrea Harris. Dr. Andrea Harris was a trailblazer who never stopped fighting for social and racial equity. As the executive director of the Franklin Vance Warren Opportunity Inc., she was the first Black woman to oversee a community action agency in North Carolina. A leader and advocate for the marginalized and disenfranchised, Andrea dedicated her life to overcoming barriers to economic growth and opportunity, especially for people of color and women in the state. Dr. Harris’ legacy of community service and leadership exemplify the heart of community action and we are proud to continue her legacy by supporting the next generation of community leaders.
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Congratulations!
New Nationally Certified ROMA Implementers & Trainers
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Stephanie Cox (Implementer)
CSBG Program Director,
Coastal Community Action, Inc.
(2/28/24)
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Diane McMillan (Implementer)
Family Development Specialist,
Coastal Community Action, Inc.
(1/23/24)
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Tamara Hudson (Implementer)
Case Manager 1,
Action Pathways
(6/2/23)
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Kathleen Jacobs (Implementer)
CSBG Director,
Southeastern Community Action Partnership
(10/26/23)
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Latasha Lovette (Implementer)
Director of Training,
Welfare Reform Liaison Project
(4/27/23)
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Allexus Porter (Implementer)
CSBG Assistant Director,
Central Piedmont Community Action
(10/13/23)
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Sarah Shipman (Trainer)
CSBG Supervisor,
Southeastern Community Action Partnership
(3/1/23)
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HEAL NC Launches
NCCAA Program Spotlight: Introducing HEAL NC Program Manager Peg Morrison
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The NCCAA is happy to welcome Peg Morrison to our team as Program Manager for the HEAL NC Program, a new initiative designed to empower Head Start families to achieve sustainable livelihoods.
Peg spent the last 10 years with the National Alliance on Mental Illness – five in Ohio and five in North Carolina. At NAMI Ohio she learned to facilitate support groups and to teach the skill to others.
We're glad to have you on board Peg!
READ MORE HERE
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Scroll Down for More Network Career Information | |
NCCAA Program Spotlight: Youth Grower's Event
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NCCAA staff participated in a youth grower's event recently at Southeast Halifax High School with students from Halifax and Edgecombe Counties. Conversations were focused on the needs of youth who have an interest in working in agriculture after graduation.
Participants toured Greenleaf Farm, located at Enfield Middle School, a program of Halifax County School District that has been recognized as the first North Carolina School District Farm to receive GAP Harmonious Certification. The Certification allows produce harvested from the farm to be served to students in all-district cafeterias and distributed through local vendors.
As an outdoor learning lab for students enrolled in horticulture and agricultural science classrooms, the farm is also an exploration activity for business students interested in entrepreneurship and marketing.
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Community Action News From Around the State | |
W.A.M.Y. Announces Popular Denim and Diamonds Fundraiser | |
Mountain Projects Winter Warmth Drive Receives Attention | |
Annual drive helps people on fixed incomes as utility costs spike. | |
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Celebrating Senior Companion Programs
Agency Spotlights: WAGES, Inc. & YVEDDI
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A recent WAGES Superhero of the Month, (which is what they call their Senior Companions of the Month), is Lesa Sutton. Her ongoing dedication and service to the WAGES Senior Companion Program is extraordinary! | |
The Prayer Shawl Group at the Yadkin Valley Senior Center plans a Prayer Shawl Dedication on March 27. The group hand crafts these shawls for the sole purpose of bringing comfort to Hospice Patients. | |
News From the National Community Action Partnership | |
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Wednesday, April 3, at 3 PM ET | 2 PM CT | 1 PM MT | 12 PM PT
NCAP, CAP Solar and The Kresge Foundation have formed Electric CAP (eCAP). eCAP is committed to transitioning all viable Community Action locations to a sustainable future through the funding, installation, and management of solar + battery solutions, offering resources to save money, boost resiliency, and cut emissions.
eCAP’s goal is to aggregate a Community Action wide solar portfolio to give our network the position it deserves within the national renewable energy conversation.
Presenters
Joe Evans, Portfolio Director and Social Investment Officer, Social Investment Practice,
The Kresge Foundation, Troy, MI
Steven Leitner, COO, CAP Solar
Robert Halsch, CEO, Greater Bergen Community Action and CAP Solar
Lynne Algrant, Chief Resource & Development Officer, Greater Bergen Community Action, Inc.
Mike Burns, Partner, BWB Solutions, Woodbridge, CT
Denise Harlow, CEO, National Community Action Partnership
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Community Action Responds to Proposed Head Start Changes
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NCAP, CAPLAW, and NCAF submitted joint comments on behalf of the Community Action Network, responding to newly proposed Head Start regulations that would affect hundreds of Community Action Agencies across the country. Over 250 Community Action organizations representing 46 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico added their support to the comments. The proposed changes would affect multiple areas of Head Start operations, including staff compensation and benefits, mental health services, incident reporting, safety standards, lead testing, income eligibility determinations, and many others. | |
Friendship Day!
Agency Spotlight: I-CARE, Inc.
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Friendship Day celebration at I-CARE, Inc.!
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In 2023, the NCCAA launched the Diaper Distribution Demonstration and Research Pilot (DDDRP) through grant funding from the Office of Community Services (OCS). This initiative has been branded for NC as The D.I.A.P.E.R. Project (Demonstrating Innovative Approaches to Promote Economic Resiliency). In partnership with the Diaper Bank of NC, five of our local community action agencies work to provide needed diapers and diapering supplies to qualified families. Participating families are waitlisted from Head Start/Early Head Start and receive 100 diapers/month, as well as wipes and ointment. Wraparound supportive services are offered to families, as well as referrals to promote economic self-sufficiency. NCCAA is excited to continue to offer this incredible program to not only ensure children have access to clean diapers, but also families are provided support as they work to improve their economic mobility. | |
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Choanoke Area Development Association (CADA)
Bertie, Halifax, Hertford, Northampton
Economic Improvement Council (EIC)
Martin, Chowan, Pasquotank, Tyrell, Hyde
Franklin-Vance-Warren-Opportunities, Inc.
Vance, Warren
Greene Lamp
Lenoir, Greene
WAGES, Inc
Wayne
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Learn More About the DIAPER Project | |
Children's Dental Health Month
Agency Spotlight: Blue Ridge Community Action
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The Caldwell County Health Department visited Northside Head Start in Lenoir to discuss proper tooth brushing during children’s dental health month! CCHD staff reached 351 children at 16 different childcare facilities during the month. | |
Certificate Program Classes Scheduled for the 1st Quarter of '24 | |
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The NCCAA, in partnership with Southern University, continues to offer popular certificate courses in Case Management and Head Start Family Engagement.
Class start dates have been set for the first quarter of 2024. Please reach out if we can provide fliers for your distribution.
Read More About the Certificates at These Links:
Head Start
Case Management
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Featured Job Listings
Four Square Community Action, Inc.
(Email communications@nccaa.net to feature your agency's listing)
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Links to Career Pages in the NCCAA Network | |
(Link goes to home page when career page isn't offered) | |
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Far West
Blue Ridge Community Action, Morganton
Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission Inc., N. Wilkesboro
Catawba County, Hickory
Community Action Opportunities, Asheville
Four Square Community Action, Inc., Murphy
Macon County Program for Progress, Franklin
Mountain Projects, Waynesville
WAMY, Watauga, Avery, Mitchell and Yancey Counties
West
Charlotte Area Fund, Inc., Charlotte
Davidson County Community Action, Lexington
Experiments in Self-Reliance, Inc., Winston-Salem
Gaston Community Action, Inc., Gastonia
I-Care, Inc., Statesville
Salisbury-Rowan Community Action, Salisbury
Sandhills Community Action Program, Southern Pines
Union County Community Action, Monroe
Yadkin Co. Economic Development District, Boonville
Central
Alamance Co. Community Services Agency, Burlington
Central Piedmont Community Action, Durham area
Franklin-Vance-Warren Opportunity, Inc., Henderson
Johnston Lee Harnett Community Action, Inc., Smithfield
Passage Home, Wake Co.
Southeastern Community Action Partnership, Lumberton
Telamon, Raleigh
Welfare Reform Liaison Project, Greensboro
East
Action Pathways, Fayetteville
Choanoke Area Development Assoc., Rich Square
Coastal Community Action, Newport
Economic Improvement Council, Edenton
Eastern Carolina Human Services Agency, Jacksonville
Greene Lamp, Inc., Kinston
NEW Community Action, Rocky Mount
Wayne Action Group for Economic Solvency (WAGES), Inc., Goldsboro
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Share your community action career opportunities on our web page and have them distributed to 7000+ emails through the NCCAA newsletter! Send your job listings to communications@nccaa.net. | |
Working together to share the impact of Community Action
Does your Community Action Agency have impactful content to share? Let's collaborate. The NCCAA develops creative content year-round to celebrate, educate and inform. Let's amplify the voices of organizations in our network! Let's share the impactful work of community action and tell the stories of our clients! Reach out for collaboration: communications@nccaa.net.
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Share Community Action News with a Friend | |
As a member of the NCCAA community, we work to empower low-income families, change people's lives for the better and improve the communities we serve. We are all dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other. Please take a moment and forward this news to a co-worker and grow the community of professionals dedicated to this important work. | | | | |
