Community Action, Inc. of Rock & Walworth Counties (CAI) is thrilled to receive $381,000 from United Way Blackhawk Region (UWBR) to support eight programs. The funding is the first time UWBR lengthened its grant allocation cycle to 18-months.

“Community Action programs are investments in the community,” says Cecilia Dever, CAI Executive Director. “By helping others achieve self-reliance, we set the stage for a stronger tomorrow. We are pleased United Way Blackhawk Region has strongly contributed to eight Community Action programs that help low-income families in Rock County.”

Programs receiving funding:

AWARE in Evansville provides a variety of assistance to low-income individuals in the Evansville school district. AWARE served 386 people in 2016.
Total 18-month program cost: $124,500                United Way investment: $28,500

Community Kids Learning Center is state-licensed and rated 5-out-of-5 stars on the state’s YoungStar scale. In 2016, Community Kids served 582 children throughout the year, 50% of whom were at or below the federal poverty level.

Total 18-month program cost: $1,513,950             United Way investment: $90,000

The Fatherhood Initiative trains underemployed Rock County fathers through sessions in life skills, work readiness and job search. Ninety percent of participants have a criminal history. In 2016, 44 men enrolled in the program.

Total 18-month program cost: $335,005                United Way investment $45,000

Beloit Fresh Start targets youth who have criminal histories, are failing in school or have dropped out. Students are co-enrolled in the Beloit school district and combine academics with learning construction skills. Twenty-two students graduated in spring 2017, compared to 18 in 2016.

Total 18-month program cost: $1,021,500             United Way investment $15,000

Merrill Community Center After School Adventures began September 5 and is currently at capacity with 30 youth. The structured program provides homework assistance, tutoring and enrichment activities for youth ages 6-12 in the Merrill Neighborhood. CAI also partners with the Stateline Boys & Girls Club to provide additional recreation and development activities.

Total 18-month program cost: $86,532                  United Way investment $86,532

Merrill Community Center Senior Program began September 5 with six senior citizens enrolled. The program runs two days a week from 9:00am-1:00pm, with various workshops, field trips and activities. Many of the seniors face financial hardships, social isolation and access to community resources.

Total 18-month program cost: $19,968                  United Way investment $19,968

Personal Responsibility Education Program offers evidence-based curriculum through adult preparation classes in Rock County schools and an eight-week summer session. The program promotes academic achievement and safe dating behavior. In the 2016-17 school year and summer 2016, PREP served more than 1,355 middle and high school-aged youth in Rock County.

Total 18-month program cost: $187,500                United Way investment $15,000

The Transitional Living Program is a housing stabilization program, targeting individuals and families falling below 30% of the county’s median income. The program provides 18 months of case management with six months follow-up. In 2016, 42 households made up of 106 individuals received services through TLP.

Total 18-month program cost: $986,505                United Way investment $81,000

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