Our Mission and Vision

Our Mission

At Community Action we provide access and opportunity for those we serve and those who support our efforts.  Through innovative programs and strong community partnerships we eliminate barriers, establishing clear pathways to economic self-reliance.

Our Vision

We fully leverage the commitment, talents and resources of our Board, staff and partners to ensure that individuals and families living in or close to poverty have access to the opportunities that enable them to pursue and achieve self-reliance. In doing our work we consistently affirm and cultivate the inherent potential of those we serve. We firmly believe in the capabilities of our participants and create programs that offer a ladder up, not a hand out. We understand our neighborhoods and communities will thrive only when all members have access to opportunities. We recognize that opportunity is not available equally in our communities and institutional barriers can be a road block to self-reliance. We have the courage to challenge policies and practices, within CAI and our communities, to ensure we are effective and accountable to those we are intended to serve.

Our Core Values

Strength & Interests of People

We believe that all people desire access to resources that will allow them to meet their basic needs.  We believe people want access to opportunities that will empower them to reach their full potential.  We believe each and every person possesses an array of strengths and that opportunities always exist to build upon those strengths.

Listening & Learning

The people we serve are our most knowledgeable resource. We will only be effective if we successfully engage and listen to them as we work with them to address the issues that impact their lives.

Relationships

Strong working relationships are critical to our success and these relationships must be built on a foundation of honesty, compassion and respect.

Dignity
We are sensitive to the beliefs, needs and capabilities of our culturally diverse customers and staff.

Collaboration

We recognize that developing partnerships and building collaborations are essential to building effective solutions and high quality programs.

Flexibility
We believe that real change can best be achieved when we challenge ourselves and the systems in which we work, to be creative and flexible.

Development

We have an environment that provides support, resources, and opportunities for high staff achievement.

Accountability

We understand that resources are scarce and the needs in our communities are great. We therefore believe we have an obligation to be good stewards and to utilize our resources strategically and thoughtfully.