We are caa strong!

We are officially two weeks into the federal shutdown and with no formal negotiations on surface, some speculate hopeful discussions may be brewing behind the scenes. I am choosing to lean into the words of my amazing Board Chair Dr. Jacklyn Chisholm, “While no one can predict how long negotiations may last, our programs remain strong, and [Ohio’s urban Community Action Agencies] are confident in our ability to continue serving the community.”

These are troubling times for sure. With the federal government shutdown, state budget cuts, massive layoffs and still having to manage day-to-day life. Sometimes it is difficult finding joy and keeping peace of mind. Admittedly, I haven't been feeling as optimistic or hopeful lately.

Lucky for me, I got a chance to connect with some amazing people recently and had great conversations with them about building new partnerships and opportunities for the future. One example is my meeting with new Executive Director for the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies (OACAA) Jason Smith. After spending time with him during the OUCAN Board Retreat, we talked about our commonalities and our belief in collaboration. We are ready and committed to strengthening Ohio’s Community Action.

I am also grateful for being able to co-present last month during the Corporation for Appalachian Development (COAD) Annual Conference at Cherry Valley Hotel. Before the event, I met with Executive Director Megan Riddlebarger and didn’t realize how little I knew about COAD’s expansive services and programs and 17 member agencies. The synergy between the two networks can only grow into greater approaches to serving rural and Appalachian communities.



These opportunities to meet, congregate and talk to one another help to foster genuine relationships and exchanges that transfer into good energy, restore hope and bring transformational changes for meaningful impact.

We are CAA strong and have been for 60 years! Our impact reaches more than 10 million Americans through locally led, innovative and efficient solutions. Ohio’s agencies cover all 88 counties, each providing local community solutions through a myriad of programs and services.



OUCAN is the nation’s oldest urban community action network celebrating 40 years of breaking the cycle of poverty in Ohio’s 16 urban counties. Our member agencies serve more than 56% of Ohio’s low-income households. And they do so by ensuring residents are treated with dignity and have the resources to prosper in their everyday lives.



I'll say it again: we are CAA STRONG! And together we will remain strong!