Move the Mountain Leadership Center Inc.

“PART III: It is the mission of Circles of Jackson County INC. to provide the short- and long-term support that enables families currently living in poverty to move into financial sustainability through education, employment readiness assistance, and the creation of community support systems. We also work to educate our community about poverty and reduce the barriers to success for all persons. Our long-term goal is to reduce the numbers of families in poverty in Jackson County by 10%. Our short-term goals for our clients are jobs that pay a living wage, housing that is both safe and affordable, reliable transportation, and the creation of social networks that support their movement toward self-sustainability. Our two-step process is a 21-month commitment. First, low-income individuals/families enroll in Circles Leadership Training; a 15-week class covering the personal, interpersonal, and financial tools necessary to move beyond poverty. These individuals/families, now called Circle Leaders, are then paired with 2 trained middle-to-high income community volunteers, called Allies, who support their efforts to achieve economic stability. These pairings are called Circle groups. The Circle group meets outside of our regular weekly meeting, a minimum of once a week over the next 18 months. Each circle group works to build FInancial, emotional and social resources as well as develop goals unique to their own needs and dreams. In addition to the Circle group meetings, we meet weekly to provide educational opportunities tailored to their needs as well as social networking, emotional support, and opportunities to give back to the community. These meetings include a free meal and childcare. In addition to the weekly meal, one on one support, job/education information, and training opportunities provided by our meetings; we regularly provide food assistance, emergency funds, and professional expertise to our 38 client families from our office. Leaders have needed this assistance so far and the numbers are increasing. Outcomes Our most recent outcome data shows a 29% increase in average monthly income, a 19% increase in specialized training or higher education, and a 30% increase in safe housing/reliable transportation over the initial 18 month commitment to our program.”

“No one contributor gave $5000 or more.”

“ADVERTISING 859.”

“BACKGROUND CHECKS 18.”

“BANK FEES 35.”

“Cohort class incentives 975.”

“Conferences & meetings 705.”

“DIRECT ASSITANCE 5246.”

“Fundraising expense 3433.”

“GRANT EXPENSES 1050.”

“HONORARIUM 300.”

“INSURANCE 2100.”

“Memberships & registration 8188.”

“MISCELLANEOUS 18.”

“Office supplies & postage 462.”

“Printing and copying 118.”

“SOFTWARE 3382.”

“TELEPHONE 583.”

“TRAINING SUPPLIES 514.”