Economic Opportunity Board of Clark County

Overview

The Economic Opportunity Board of Clark County is a nonprofit organization located in Las Vegas, dedicated to combating poverty and promoting economic empowerment for low-income individuals and families. Established in 1964, it serves as a community action agency, one of 12 such agencies in Nevada and part of a larger network of over 1,000 across the United States.

History

Incorporated in September 1964, the Economic Opportunity Board (EOB) opened its first office on April 5, 1965, with initial funding of $25,000. Its inception was tied to the Economic Opportunity Act, a key component of President Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty initiative. Since its founding, the EOB has remained committed to its original mission: to fight poverty and foster economic self-sufficiency in Southern Nevada.

Programs

The Economic Opportunity Board offers a variety of programs aimed at supporting low-income communities. These include:

• Family Supportive Services: Programs designed to help families through assistance with basic needs and access to resources that enhance their quality of life.
• Workforce Supportive Services: Initiatives focused on creating pathways to employment and skill development, enabling individuals to achieve economic stability.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Senior Center: This facility provides services and information to adults aged 55 and older, enhancing their quality of life and offering community engagement opportunities.
• Project LISTOS: This program supports the community by providing preparedness and resilience strategies.

Mission and Vision

The organization's mission is to introduce and implement programs, resources, and advocacy that lead to self-sufficiency and economic empowerment. Its vision is to eliminate poverty in Southern Nevada by fostering partnerships with community stakeholders and empowering low-income individuals and families.

Financials

As of 2021, the Economic Opportunity Board reported revenues of approximately $3.92 million and expenses of about $4.02 million, with total assets valued at around $2.6 million and liabilities of approximately $817,000[3]. The organization is eligible for tax-deductible donations, classified under Human Services — Multipurpose and Other / Neighborhood Centers, and Settlement Houses (NTEE).

Governance and Structure

Key personnel include an executive director, CFO, and a governing board composed of community members and stakeholders. The board is a designated community action agency, recognized by both local and state governments for its role in combating poverty.

Impact

Through its programs and services, the Economic Opportunity Board of Clark County aims to transform lives by improving communities and promoting hope and self-sufficiency. It embodies the spirit of community action agencies created during the War on Poverty era, now part of a nationwide network dedicated to similar goals.