Thank you for being a vital lifeline in Virginia's communities!


At a time when individuals and families are struggling to make ends meet, it is often difficult for people to access the help they need on a local level. As Community Action Agencies, your staff and volunteers are on the front lines every day to provide much-needed services. You are a lifeline for so many who just need help knowing how to navigate complex systems and begin on the road to self-sufficiency.


Whether its providing invaluable Head Start services, conducting home weatherization programs, or participating in the Diaper Distribution Program, your agency is making a huge impact on your community. Agencies participating in the Whole Family Approach are breaking the intergenerational cycles of poverty and instability by providing coordinated, holistic, and prevention-driven support that strengthens relationships and builds on family strengths. 


“Each May, during Community Action Month, we reflect on the impact our network has had on families across Virginia. One of the core beliefs of Community Action is to empower families without expanding government by trusting local communities to assess and address their own needs."


-Matt Fitzgerald, Director, Office of Economic Opportunity



 
 

All this month, make an effort to share your stories, amplify your Community Action messages, and share your impact with your community leaders. It is extremely important to communicate about the work you are doing every single day! For tools and resources to help get the word out, download the official 2026 Community Action Month Toolkit.



Finally, on behalf of the Virginia Department of Social Services, the Virginia Community Action Partnership (VACAP), and the Office of Economic Opportunity, we thank you for your incredible work and appreciate everything you are doing to make Virginia's communities stronger.