2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the
Community Action Network. The signing of the Economic Opportunity Act in 1964
launched a new movement to help families and communities overcome obstacles to
poverty. Today, this network includes more than 1,000 community action agencies
across the country. The work of these agencies transcends the existing silos in
social services delivery through a whole family approach, ushering in a
comprehensive, integrated solution that harmoniously caters to the needs of
both children and adults within a family unit.
“2024 marks a milestone in the war against poverty,” states Matt Fitzgerald, Virginia Department of Social Services, Office of Economic Opportunity Director. “For 60 year the Community Action Network has been helping people and changing lives in every corner of America. In Virginia last year, community action agencies served more than 90,000 individuals and more than 45,000 families.”
During Community Action Month in May, we reflect on the impact the network of 31 agencies serving across the Commonwealth. These agencies are vital to fighting poverty by providing stable housing, giving families food on the table, providing affordable heat and energy, assisting students to receive high-quality early childhood education, educating about financial empowerment, and helping individuals find better jobs. Community action agencies are locally controlled and represented by the private, public, and low-income sectors of the community. In Virginia, there are 31 public and private community action agencies having a real impact on poverty in their communities.
The Office of Economic Opportunity will be weaving the anniversary of community action in our messaging throughout the year. There are several tools available for you as you plan your activities. When you’ve confirmed your plans, use this link to let us know what you have scheduled.
“2024 marks a milestone in the war against poverty,” states Matt Fitzgerald, Virginia Department of Social Services, Office of Economic Opportunity Director. “For 60 year the Community Action Network has been helping people and changing lives in every corner of America. In Virginia last year, community action agencies served more than 90,000 individuals and more than 45,000 families.”
During Community Action Month in May, we reflect on the impact the network of 31 agencies serving across the Commonwealth. These agencies are vital to fighting poverty by providing stable housing, giving families food on the table, providing affordable heat and energy, assisting students to receive high-quality early childhood education, educating about financial empowerment, and helping individuals find better jobs. Community action agencies are locally controlled and represented by the private, public, and low-income sectors of the community. In Virginia, there are 31 public and private community action agencies having a real impact on poverty in their communities.
The Office of Economic Opportunity will be weaving the anniversary of community action in our messaging throughout the year. There are several tools available for you as you plan your activities. When you’ve confirmed your plans, use this link to let us know what you have scheduled.
- OEO At-A-Glance 60th Anniversary Toolkit
- NCAP Official 60th Anniversary Toolkit
- 2024 Community Action Month Toolkit