Blue Ridge Community Action Inc

Blue Ridge Community Action Inc, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was established in 1965 as a Community Action Agency. Its mission, encapsulated by the phrase "Helping People. Changing Lives," focuses on addressing poverty and enhancing the quality of life for individuals in several North Carolina counties.

Mission and Objectives

The organization operates under a three-fold mission:

1. Provide Services: Offer programs designed to help families move out of poverty.
2. Reduce Poverty Effects: Implement services to alleviate suffering caused by poverty.
3. Advocate for Change: Influence policies and practices that contribute to poverty.

Governance

Blue Ridge Community Action is governed by a 15-member tripartite Board of Directors. This board composition ensures representation from elected public officials, the private sector, and low-income communities.

Service Areas

Primarily, Blue Ridge Community Action serves Burke, Caldwell, and Rutherford counties. However, it also extends limited services to residents of Alexander, Catawba, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Stanly, and Union counties.

Programs and Services

• Child Care: Programs for early childhood development.
• Adult Day Center: Support services for adults needing daytime care.
• Affordable Rentals: Assistance with affordable housing options.
• VITA Tax Program: Free tax preparation services.
• Community Services: Includes Information and Referral and the REACH Self-Sufficiency program.
• Circles Program: A national initiative aimed at eliminating poverty through training and social capital development.
• Home Delivered Meals: Nutritious meals provided for eligible individuals in Caldwell County.
• Weatherization: Energy-saving upgrades for homes, focusing on energy efficiency.
• SCSEP: Senior Community Service Employment Program offering job training for seniors.

Funding and Resource Development

Blue Ridge Community Action secures funding from various sources, including federal, state, and local governments, as well as private foundations. The agency has also successfully developed self-supporting income streams for some programs.

Community Engagement

The organization emphasizes community collaboration and input, hosting public meetings to align services with local priorities. This engagement is crucial for ensuring that initiatives funded by grants, such as the Community Services Block Grant, meet the specific needs of the communities served.

Programs and Initiatives

In addition to its core programs, Blue Ridge Community Action aims to expand services in areas like economic development, housing stability, education, and health and wellness. These efforts are enhanced by grants like the Community Services Block Grant, which supports anti-poverty initiatives nationwide.