Stories of Success

STORIES OF SUCCESS

Notable outcomes of families participating in Circles:

Families experiences an average increase in spendable income of more than 200% (average increase from $250 in cash assistance to average earned income of $1,460 per month). Not only was this an increase of income, it was taxable earned income combined with a reduction in costs to the State in cash benefits.

Two families paid off fines that held them back from improving their lives.

56% of families obtained a new or better job

100% of participants did a personal assessment

89% created a goal plan (the other 11% are in process)

11% obtained new or better transportation

22% obtained new or better living arrangements

100% attended budgeting classes and 66% have developed a budget and are working on improving their credit.

More than 60 allies (community volunteers) have been recruited

We raised $34,116.21 locally from donations, grants and foundations in revenue for the initiative

Additional outcomes for Circle Leaders who have been in the program more than 1 year:

100% obtained and maintained employment

100% obtained or maintained safe housing

100% created a plan to move out of poverty

100% decreased their reliance on public benefits

100% participated in budgeting classes

100% met or exceeded at least one of their goals in the first 6 months

100% state they now feel hopeful about the future

66% obtained new concrete skills (Culinary Skills and ServSafe Certification as well as English language skills)

90% of all allies have stayed involved

100% of all Circle Leaders have attend their Circles meetings

Community Outcomes

In June 2011 we held our first Race Against Poverty. The race ran through downtown Chambersburg, PA on a First Friday (a monthly event that brings people into town to visit local stores and restaurants). The turnout was amazing with more than 200 runners and walkers. The event not only raised awareness about Circles but raised more than $8,000!