Family Development is an intense case-management program that establishes a framework to work holistically with those seeking comprehensive services at Community Action agencies. The program encourages work with the entire family with the result leading them to self-sufficiency. The Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies (OACAA) provides certification to Community Action Professionals across the state to become Family Development Specialists …
State of Poverty in Ohio Report 2014
In cooperation with Community Research Partners (CRP), OACAA released the State of Poverty in Ohio Report on Tuesday, March 10, 2015. The report, which is now available online, aims to illustrate the effects of poverty in an effort to understand economic hardships today and over the last fifty years. Throughout the report, you will learn about many of the …
Organizational Standards: IM 138 Released
As many of you have seen, IM 138 was released by the U.S. Office of Community Services (OCS) which provides guidance and responsibilities for the establishment of Organizational Standards for the CSBG Network. These Standards reflect more than two years of work led by the Community Action Partnership. The goal of the Standards is to establish a set of good …
2015 Winter Legislative Conference #WLC2015
Last week, the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies (OACAA) hosted the 2015 Winter Legislative Conference in Columbus, Ohio. Nearly 300 Community Action professionals, partners and legislators joined the OACAA board and staff to discuss, learn and inspire each other. New and innovative approaches were pursued as the Community Action Network continued to do what they do best—help people and …
Community Action Helps People and Changes Lives
Over the past 50 years, Community Action Agencies across the country have worked tirelessly to leverage resources, develop local programs, and administer grants to help low-income families and individuals achieve self-sufficiency to fight the war on poverty. Over the past year, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Economic Opportunity Action of 1964, we have celebrated …
Legislative Update
The 130th General Assembly is now on summer break after finishing the biennial budget, presenting us with a good opportunity to review the bills OACAA has followed and those we will continue to follow when the General Assembly returns: HB 3 INSURANCE NAVIGATORS (Sears, B.) Among other provisions, HB 3, which becomes effective on July 30, provides for the certification …
Will you be joining #GivingTuesday?
Social media has created a number of opportunities for nonprofits to increase fundraising goals while lowering campaign costs. It has successfully launched several viral micro-donation campaigns such as the Cold Water or ALS Ice Bucket Challenges and it has enhanced year-end and year-round fundraising. You’ve likely heard of Black Friday and Cyber Monday though have you heard of Giving Tuesday? The …
“UGG”! Are you ready?
Uniform Grant Guidance (UGG) or “Super Circular” will become effective for non-federal agencies beginning December 26, 2014. Is your organization ready? Fifty five staff members at 21 of Ohio’s Community Action agencies are more prepared now than they were. OACAA/OCATO (Ohio Community Action Training Organization) hosted two regional trainings on September 23rd and 24th in Jeffersonville and Huron. Mary Pockl …
Getting Started with Social Media: The Top 5 Sites Explained
Navigating the world of social media can be a little overwhelming with new sites gaining momentum daily. While there are similarities, each site has its strengths, weaknesses and specialties. If you’re new to the social media scene or are considering getting your agency started, below is a quick run-down of today’s top five social media sites. Facebook: Facebook is not …
What is the OACAA Poverty Simulation?
Lorie McClain, Program Specialist The Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies’ (OACAA) Poverty Simulation is a walk in another person’s shoes. It’s about sharing experiences and making a connection to the conditions of those in poverty. Give yourself one time in this experience of poverty and it can lead you to a new understanding and renewed dedication to fighting against …