MANSFIELD – Since the signing of the Economic Opportunity Act in 1964, the nation’s Community Action Network has inspired a spirit of hope and helped millions of people change their lives and improve communities in Richland, Huron and Erie counties.
Community Action Commission Counties of Erie, Huron, & Richland Counties Inc. (CACEHR) has served local residents by providing opportunities to overcome poverty and become self- sufficient.
May is Community Action Month, and this year the network is celebrating 60 years of helping people and changing lives.
The Community Action vision remains clear: believe in a nation that creates opportunities for all people to thrive, build strong and resilient communities, and ensure a more equitable society.
In Richland County, 7 out of 76 employees at CACEHR work every day to “promote self- sufficiency and improve the quality of life of those in need.”
Last year, in Richland County 10,638 customers were assisted with necessities such as food and housing, and opportunities to improve their financial stability through job training, education, and community initiatives.
“Community Action is truly an innovative network,” said Janice W. Warner, CCAP, President/CEO at CACEHR. “Our strength comes not only from the thousands of people who work to help people every day but from our local community members who volunteer time to the mission.
“Together, we are making a difference in people’s lives.”
CACEHR offers a variety of services aimed at creating opportunities and does so in a holistic way. When customers are in need, the agency goes beyond what brought them through the door and works with them to find long-term solutions.
As the community and individual needs change, so do the strategies and solutions. Community Action co-designs programs with individuals who have lived the poverty experience to continue advancing the mission and helping people reach self-sufficiency.
“Celebrating Community Action celebrates our customers who are working to overcome their barriers, the staff who have committed their careers to helping people, and the community as a whole who care about their neighbors,” Warner said.
“We’re proud to be part of this mission.”
CACEHR is dedicated to maintaining the promise of Community Action: Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live.
We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other. Community Action Agencies work to alleviate poverty and empower low-income families in their communities.
The Community Action Commission of Erie, Huron, and Richland Counties, Inc. serves Erie, Huron, and Richland Counties and assisted 20,000 plus low-income residents in 2023.