Dear John, Did you know that May is National Community Action Month? It's a month set aside each year to celebrate the work being done by Community Action Agencies across the United States. Because you've walked alongside us as a partner, we wanted to share with you some recent successes made possible because of the support of you and others. Thank you for living the spirit of Community Action and CMCA by helping people help themselves and each other!
SkillUP - A light of hope in the darkness My name is Chelle and because of COVID, I became unemployed for 303 days. Before COVID I managed two physician clinics. I have worked since I was 18-years-old, and because I had a professional career I felt protected from being laid off. But COVID changed my life and the lives of so many others. During my career, I have always been dedicated to helping others and sharing resources. I never expected that one day I would need those same resources.
We looked at available jobs together frequently and Lacey made sure that I knew of available jobs when they became available. She also connected me to resources that made my life easier while unemployed. I felt a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders because I felt supported. It took 303 days and over 75 resumes before I was offered a job but today I am working again! Lacey and the SkillUP program were a light of hope during a very dark time for me!
Advice from Chelle to others facing uncertain times.
Offered in partnership with the Missouri Department of Social Services, SkillUp helps SNAP recipients obtain skills, training, education, and employer connections that lead to employment and on-the-job success.
The Path to Success - many programs, one goal Chelle's story isn't unique. There are many who, like Chelle, has successfully supported themselves most of their lives but then, due to circumstances beyond their control, find themselves needing a helping hand. Chelle recognized that it was time to ask for help, got the help she needed, and is now back on her feet. That's what Central Missouri Community Action is all about - guiding and supporting people as they journey toward a self-sustaining, more financially secure future.
Donor Spotlight - Meet Dave and Stacey Preis How did you learn about Central Missouri Community Action? The Executive Director is my brother
What made you decide to donate to CMCA? I believe in the mission and philosophy of CMCA. Much more than just “handouts”, they are about enablement and fostering self-sufficiency. They are supporting so many people to lift them out of poverty now, but it’s not hard to imagine the immense positive generational impact this will also have. When choosing to donate, why did you select a recurring gift? A recurring gift is a convenient way for me to stay accountable to this deserving cause, and it’s easier for me to budget. Also, as a small business owner, I recognize the importance and value to an organization of predictable, ongoing revenue.
How has being a recurring donor impacted you? We love receiving updates about the good work CMCA is doing, and it feels good to be part of that, if even in a small way.
Is there anything else you’d like to add? I believe CMCA’s model and a broad array of support services is the way forward in tackling many of the toughest challenges faced by Americans in need. It’s personal connections, needs assessment, and innovative solutions at a community level that seek to solve problems for the long term rather than only providing temporary band-aids. Want to become a CMCA Promise Team Member? This incredible community is composed of generous, passionate, and determined people—like you. They’re community changers and history makers. And you’re going to fit right in.
Learn More about the Community Promise Team Become a Community Promise Team Member or support with a one-time gift now!
Tigers on the Prowl - It's time to get back together! About the Event Tigers on the Prowl is a collaborative fundraiser benefitting six non-profits in mid-Missouri. As part of the event, nationally recognized artists create and donate unique pieces that are auctioned to benefit participating charities. The gala brings together artists, non-profits, and community members to celebrate and support the work of participating non-profits and artists. CMCA is one of six non-profits benefiting from the 2021 Tigers on the Prowl event. All proceeds from tickets purchased through CMCA will directly benefit CMCA. Your purchase of tickets to this event supports the Promise of Community Action: The Promise of Community Action mission is to change people’s lives, embody the spirit of hope, improve communities, and make America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.
Highlights
Tickets
You may purchase tickets online by clicking the button below or you may contact Cheryl Unterschutz (573.443.8706, ext 1030) to purchase your tickets with a check.
Central Missouri Community Action 807 N. Providence Rd. Columbia, MO 65203 www.cmca.us | 573.443.8706 Email not displaying correctly? Unsubscribe |