Dear OACAA Members and Community Partners:
As you are all aware, the COVID-19 pandemic has drastically impacted Ohioans this year—especially over the past week. First and foremost, I want to be sure that you are all staying safe and taking the recommended precautions wherever possible. In my nearly 30 years in the Community Action Network, I have seen some amazing things accomplished by our members. I have no doubt that you are going to continue that history of successful community support as we overcome this pandemic together.
Because of the health crisis and recommendations from Governor DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health, we have made some adjustments to our operations at OACAA. Beginning Monday, March 16, 2020, OACAA staff have been instructed to work from home whenever possible. I believe this is a crucial step to maintain physical distancing and self-quarantine to protect our staff, their families, and the community at large.
We are currently working to forward our main phone lines, though should you need to reach a staff person directly, we recommend sending them an email. Staff emails can be found on our website. I am confident we have the technology in place to maintain effective operations and support to our members and the community during this challenging time. Thank you for your additional patience as we work through this transition.
Also, the Board of Trustees has made the difficult decision to cancel the Annual Summer Conference initially scheduled for June 2020. We will continue to monitor this health crisis and, in the meantime, work to provide training and technical assistance in other ways. We hope that the conference will be rescheduled later this year in some form or another. Please keep an eye on our website, newsletter, and social media for announcements on this and more.
On behalf of the staff and Board of Trustees, I want to extend our most sincere gratitude for the work you are doing. We anticipate maintaining a robust dialogue and support to you all. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or any of the staff for assistance. Also, continue to share your stories with us so we can share your amazing work with others.
All the best,
Philip E. Cole
Executive Director