ANNUAL REPORT2017

AELC 75 Balmforth Ave.

Danbury, CT 06810

Central Office 66 North Street

Danbury, CT 06810

Stamford Office 34 Woodland Ave.

Stamford, CT 06902

Norwalk Office 1 Park Street

Norwalk, CT 06851

For more information visit our website:

www.caawc.org

Washington Office 2 Bryan Plaza

Washington, CT 06794 T. 203-743-3785

OUR OFFICES

COMMUNITIES WE SERVE

Bethel Bridgewater Brookfield

Canaan Cornwall Danbury Darien

Greenwich Kent

New Fairfield New Milford New Canaan

Newtown North Canaan

Norwalk Redding Roxbury

Ridgefield

Salisbury Sharon

Sherman Stamford Warren

Washington Westport

TAKING ACTION, ONE NEIGHBOR AT A TIME.

Warren Office 50 Cemetery Road Warren, CT 06794 T. 203-743-3785

TOGETHER MAKING A

DIFFERENCE

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

THE COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY OF WESTERN CONNECTICUT, INC.

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DEAR FRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS,

After almost six decades, The Community Action Agency of Western

Connecticut has expanded our reach into the community. On behalf of the

Board of Directors and staff at CAAWC we are excited to share with you

our 2017 Annual Report. CAAWC has grown into a sustainable community

institution that will stand the test of time. We have learned to be locally

responsible and trust those closest to the problem to create the solution.

We have proven that impact is achieved by focusing not on touching, but

transforming lives. Most importantly, we have come to understand that

breaking the cycle of poverty takes a lifetime of change, from collaborating

with community stakeholders to reduce poverty and enable clients to achieve

self-sufficiency.

In 2017, we made inroads by expanding our services to New Canaan,

Weston, and Wilton. It has deepened our impact, and amplified our model.

The Stamford location has initiated new programs to expand the knowledge

of career development, financial literacy, and to enhance and maximize

each clients ability to increase identified skills/competencies required for

employment. We are at a pivotal time of growth at The Community Action

Agency of Western Connecticut. Thank you for continuing to believe in

our vision.

John W. Cherry Michelle H. James

Board Chair Executive Director

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659 INDIVIDUALS WHO

ACCESSED THE DIAPER PROGRAM

5,629 HOUSEHOLDS AWARDED FOR ENERGY ASSISTANCE

335 HOUSEHOLDS RECEIVED VITA INCOME

TAX ASSISTANCE

1,349 HOURS SERVED BY RSVP VOLUNTEERS

41,058 MEALS PROVIDED THROUGH OUR FOOD PANTRY

125 CHILDREN RECEIVED EARLY EDUCATION

THROUGH OUR ACTION EARLY LEARNING CENTER

“ THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY

HEART FOR HELPING ME AND CHECKING

ON ME EVEN AFTER I DIDN’T NEED THE HELP” -Maria*, a Case Management client

*Name has been changed for confidentiality purposes.

MISSIONThe Community Action Agency of Western Connecticut, Inc.

provides social services and programs to low-income individuals

and families in the western area of Connecticut to help them

stabilize and improve their lives.

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OUR PROGRAMSACTION EARLY LEARNING CENTER (AELC)AELC is a comprehensive NAEYC accredited year-round early childcare program that serves 125 children from low-income families and individuals (from the Greater Danbury Area) in the age range from eighteen months through five years.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES

Food Pantry | provides free food once per month to low-income households and individuals who reside within the Greater Danbury area.

Diaper Program | provides free diapers and wipes once per month to low-income households and individuals who reside within the Greater Danbury area.

Case Management Service | is a collaborative process that assesses, plans, implements, coordinates, monitors and evaluates income-eligible individuals and families who are in need of assistance with DSS applications, Job Search Assistance, Housing Search Assistance, Child Care, ESL Classes, Information and Referrals, Drug or Alcohol Services, Family Planning Services, Mental Health Support Services, among others.

Emergency Assistance | is a service provided to connect individuals and/or families dealing with crisis to appropriate services such as a homeless shelter, clothing pantry or other services that will assist in meeting their current emergency needs.

Job and Life Skills Training | provides clients with the skills and training that will help them compete in today’s workplace – attaining jobs and succeeding at jobs. Services include résumé development, interviewing, job search, job readiness and life skills/motivational activities. Computer classes in Microsoft Office Suite 2016 and Financial Literacy are also made available.

ENERGY ASSISTANCEEnergy Assistance is a program that assists eligible participants with their primary source of heat, so they are able to stay warm in the winter. This includes assistance with the costs of obtaining fuel, utilities, and ways to combat the rising cost of energy.

RETIRED SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM (RSVP) Retired Senior Volunteer Program is one of America’s largest volunteer networks for people age 55 and over. The RSVP program allows volunteers to actively participate in their communities by matching their knowledge, skills and talents through meaningful, coordinated and organized volunteerism, which enhances their lives and the lives of those they serve.

VITA INCOME TAX PROGRAMVITA provides free income tax preparation and the option of free electronic filing for individuals and families meeting the program’s eligibility requirements.

AGE

5

HOUSEHOLD INCOME

RACE

ETHNICITY

HISPANIC OR LATIN: 44.92%

NOT HISPANIC OR LATIN: 54.9%

151-200%: 16%

101-150%: 23%

0-100%: 44%

OVER 200%: 17.00%

OTHER: 0.18%

AGE

SENIORS 55-69: 14.56%

ADULTS: 36.14%

CHILDREN 6-17: 23.69%

BLACK/AFRICAN AMERICAN: 16.35%

WHITE: 32.09%

MULTI-RACE: 14.82%

OTHER: 34.75%

SENIORS 70+: 8.84% CHILDREN 0-5: 7.93%

AMERICAN INDIAN/ALASKAN NATIVE: 0.64%

ASIAN: 1.35%

YOUNG ADULTS 18-23: 8.84%

WHO WE SERVE

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RESULTS• 37,971 meals were provided at our Food Pantry preventing

4,205 individuals to not go hungry

• 667 households were served through our Diaper Program that

supplied free diapers and wipes for their children

WHAT WE DOIn our Danbury location we have a Food Pantry that is available once a week to low income clients and we also have a Diaper Program available once a week. Our volunteers and donors provide 100% of the diapers, wipes, etc. that we distribute to our clients. Over the past 10 years MaryAnne, one of our volunteers, has worked with our diaper program staff and clients to provide supplies as needed. The Diaper Program helps provide families with diapers, formula and various clothing for all seasons. Twenty-one year old client Theresa entered CAAWC about four months pregnant, single and dealing with numerous health issues. Theresa connected with our bilingual staff and successfully obtained diapers for her newborn and health insurance to support her family. Although Theresa is still obtaining aid she continues to work with our staff to help her improve skills for a sustainable life. Nutrition is a top need in the areas we serve and the ability to provide services and food to our clients through our Food Pantry is a successful resource. “Before attending CAAWC nutrition classes at the Food Pantry my knowledge of how to better my health was poor. I’ve learned healthy methods of how to use the food provided at the pantry, how to exercise and to decrease my risk,” Food Pantry client.

A PAY IT FORWARD COMMUNITY

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WHAT WE DOA 55-year-old Hispanic female who resided at a shelter for single homeless women, enrolled in CAAWC’s Job & Life Skills Program. When the client entered the program, she had been in the shelter for two months. Although she was homeless, she came into the program with enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. Her Certified Nursing Assistant license had expired and she wanted to get recertified. Goals for exiting the shelter were employment and housing. While attending our classes, the client became a Certified Home Health Aide through the Home Care Assistance Program. Out of the 12 weeks at the Job & Life Skills Program, the client completed 90% of the classes. At the Job & Life Skills Program closing ceremony the client received six certificates of completion for the following sessions: Critical Thinking, Cultural Diversity in the Workplace, The Power of Choice & Making Decisions, Engage Staffing, Job Preparedness, Keeping the Job, and eight weeks of Microsoft Introduction. She enrolled in our Microsoft Intermediate Program and successfully completed it. The client continues to work towards the employment goal and we are committed to helping clients maintain a job and stabilize their future.

RESULTS• 103 Individuals improved their skills required for employment

• 103 enrolled and completed CAAWC’s computer training classes

• 93 clients completed and maintained a budget for over 90 days

A PLACE TO SUCCEED

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WHAT WE DOFor over 50 years CAAWC has been providing clients with energy assistance. In the past two years CAAWC expanded to include the Stamford region. CAAWC serves over 7000 clients with energy assistance. A 35 year old client named Norma* has a huge personality, full of faith, hard-working and dedicated to taking care of her mother. Norma was very worried due to large back bills from her electric service with Eversource. Norma was also quite confused to how the program worked and why she had such a large back balance. CAAWC staff worked very closely with Norma and explained in detail our matching payment program and exactly what is needed and how it works. Our matching payment program allows clients to maintain a year-round service when they pay an agreed amount on time each month. For every dollar a client pays towards his/her bill, a dollar will be credited to his/her past due amount. Norma agreed to be enrolled in the matching payment program and completed the program successfully, up to the point that she had a credit on her account with Eversource. Norma continues to call in from time to time to make sure her balance is up to date.

RESULTS• 5,629 applications were approved through our energy assistance program

• 638 clients received matching payments

• 142 applications were approved for Operation Fuel

A SAFE & WARM HOME

*Name has been changed for confidentiality purposes.

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WHAT WE DOAction Early learning center is a comprehensive year round early childcare program that serves children from low-income families and individuals from the Greater Danbury Area in the age range from eighteen months through five years. A high quality education is provided to children. In addition, workshops are provided to parents that help improve life skills. The center is open year round and fees are determined on a sliding scale based on household income and need. Action Early Learning Center has had major successes, providing a safe learning environment, healthy meals and creative new ways to educate the students. AELC partners with CAAWC's RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) to provide dedicated volunteers to read aloud to the children and provide helpful tips for getting children excited about books.

RESULTS• 125 children are enrolled in the center; 91children participated

in early childhood and pre-school activities that developed school

readiness skills.

• 20 volunteers provided 130 hours during the year engaging

students in creative ways to learn.

A COLLABORATIVE & PASSIONATE TEAM

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FINANCIALSCommunity Action Agency of Western Connecticut

Statement of January 1, 2017- December 31, 2017

REVENUE

Federal and State grants $ 7,588,268

Program income $ 473,920

Other Income $ 7,858

Bond debt service $ 38,497

Net assets released from restrictions $ 2,277

TOTAL REVENUE $ 8,110,820

EXPENDITURES

Specific assistance $ 4,419,913

Salaries and benefits $ 2,810,809

Materials, supplies and other consumables $ 226,034

Professional and contracted services $ 169,681

Occupancy $ 147,206

Repairs and maintenance $ 108,960

Other $ 95,246

Depreciation $ 56,217

Interest $ 15,698

Conferences and training $ 10,929

TOTAL EXPENDITURES $ 8,060,693

Change in unrestricted net assets $ 50,127

Change in restricted net assets $ (387)

Net change in assets $ 49,740

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• Alexander Family Foundation• Aspnet Technologies , Inc.• Annie Benanie• Barbara & Edd Morrell• Big Y• Caraluzzi’s• Cartus• Chuck’s Steak House• CT Food Bank• Dandy Distributors DRS • Durants Party Rentals• Danbury Church of Christ• DSS• DHS FCH• Duracell• Eaton Corporation• Ethan Allen• Espinals Grocery• Effie Foster• Elpida Bauman• Genise Bowens• Gail Maltez• Grade A Supermarket• Jane Alexander• JE & Sons• Kelly Beckam• Lawrence Delavega• Mary Korin• Moms Club of New Fairfield

• Midland Fund Raising Inc.• Mutual Security Credit Union• Natalie DeLuca• Nunez & Aguilera LLC• Newtown Savings Bank• Patricia Joseph• Patricia Kelly• Praxair• Savers• Sofia Byrnes• Siemans Healthcare Diagnostics Inc.• Sugiery Nunez• Stew Leonards • Stop & Shop• Salvation Army• Sameca Moorer• Stanley Engineered Fastening• St. James Church• Toys for Tots• Texas Roadhouse Hold-ings LLC.• Temple B’nai Chaim• The Food Bank of Lower

Faifield County. Inc• Woman Center• Wells Fargo• Youth Health

Collegiate Corp Health 360

• Yazery Novo

Board of DirectorsJohn W. Cherry, Board Chair Creighton W. Lee, Sr., Vice Chair Clay Cope, TreasurerJuly Miliano, Secretary

Jose AgostoGlenda ArmstrongElise ColemanElla FraserMary KorinRichard MatzingerAli RamsteckCynthia Whitaker

Leadership TeamMichelle H. James, Executive Director

Jane Bucher, Finance Director

Gloria Sanchez, Human Resource Manager

Sonya Van Norden, Site Director (Stamford)

Elizabeth Garron, Contract Compliance

Junior Mendez, Energy Program Manager

Stephanie West, Program Manager

Ayanna DaCosta, Resource Development Specialist

THANK YOU 2017!

Bethel

Bridgewater

Brookfield

Canaan

Cornwall

Danbury

Darien

Greenwich

Kent

New Fairfield

New Milford

New Canaan

Newtown

North Canaan

Norwalk

Redding

Roxbury

Ridgefield

Salisbury

Sharon

Sherman

Stamford

Warren

Washington

Weston

Westport

Wilton

CENTRAL66 North St.

Danbury, CT 06810 203.744.4700

AELC75 Balmforth Ave.Danbury, CT 06810

203.743.3785

STAMFORD34 Woodland Ave.

Stamford, CT 06902203.602.8833

WASHINGTON2 Bryan Plaza

Washington, CT 06794860.868.0058

NORWALK 1 Park St.

Norwalk, CT 06851203.939.9650

COMMUNITIES WE SERVE

OUR OFFICES

TAKING ACTION, ONE NEIGHBOR AT A TIME.

AELC 75 Balmforth Ave.

Danbury, CT 06810

Central Office 66 North Street

Danbury, CT 06810

Stamford Office 34 Woodland Ave.

Stamford, CT 06902

Norwalk Office 1 Park Street

Norwalk, CT 06851

For more information visit our website:

www.caawc.org

Washington Office 2 Bryan Plaza

Washington, CT 06794 T. 203-743-3785

OUR OFFICES

COMMUNITIES WE SERVE

Bethel Bridgewater Brookfield

Canaan Cornwall Danbury Darien

Greenwich Kent

New Fairfield New Milford New Canaan

Newtown North Canaan

Norwalk Redding Roxbury

Ridgefield

Salisbury Sharon

Sherman Stamford Warren

Washington Westport

TAKING ACTION, ONE NEIGHBOR AT A TIME.

Warren Office 50 Cemetery Road Warren, CT 06794 T. 203-743-3785

TOGETHER MAKING A

DIFFERENCE

2016 ANNUAL REPORT

THE COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY OF WESTERN CONNECTICUT, INC.

For more information visit our website:www.caawc.org