The Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City (CAAOKC) sends this information as posted below:
OKLAHOMA CITY — Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City is shifting its mission to focus its programs and resources on families with children under 5. The nonprofit organization’s board of directors approved the updated vision, mission and strategic plan with the intent of driving stronger long-term outcomes for the community.
The shift follows a months-long assessment that included staff, donors and community partners. Leaders say the research confirmed what data and national best practices have shown: investment in early childhood is one of the most powerful tools to break a cycle of poverty and enhance long-term economic mobility for families.
CAAOKC’s new mission is: We empower families with children under 5 in Oklahoma County to break the cycle of poverty and achieve long-term self-sufficiency.
“To create meaningful, long-term change for families, we must focus our mission and resources where we can make the greatest impact,” said Larene Sherwood, board president. “Focusing on early childhood and wraparound family support is where we can truly break the cycle of poverty. When we invest in a child and their family together, we can change generational outcomes.”
The organization will center its work around its strongest and most stable programs, including Head Start and comprehensive family support. Other programs will transition or sunset over the next several years as CAAOKC focuses funding, staffing and services to areas proven to create lasting change.
“Over the years, CAAOKC has offered numerous programs to help community members manage the daily realities of poverty, but CAAOKC was founded on eliminating poverty at the root, not just treating urgent needs,” explained Jessie Thompson, executive director of CAAOKC. “Our goal is not just to manage the effects of poverty; it’s to help families break free from it. With this focus, we can more effectively surround families with the support that research shows make the greatest difference.”
Transition plans are underway with program directors and community partners to ensure families continue receiving support without interruption. Head Start, Early Head Start and childcare services will continue, along with supportive services such as rent and utility assistance, prescription assistance, and nutrition and wellness programs for enrolled families. Programs outside this early-childhood focus will sunset gradually, with CAAOKC working closely with trusted partner agencies to connect clients to ongoing services.
About Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City
Since 1965, Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma/Canadian Counties has served thousands of families by promoting self-sufficiency, building opportunity and strengthening communities. The agency’s updated vision and mission strategic plan aligns its programs, partnerships and investments around early childhood development and family stability. Learn more at caaofokc.org.
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