Case Studies

DONATE

University of Western Australia (UWA) published an article, “Poverty Reduction and Determinants of Health,” in the academic Journal of Poverty

Public health professional students Sebaka and Nguyen, along with Denny (an Associate Professor at the University of Western Australia), analyzed multiple years of Circles USA data and found significant income growth for participants. The UWA research team, along with Garvey (an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University), synthesized this data into a new resource for academic and independent sector workers in poverty alleviation.

Here’s a description:

“Poverty is a contributor to poor health yet it can be challenging to break the cycle of poverty. We analyzed the characteristics of 2,981 CirclesUSA program participants. Of the 2,981 who were screened at program intake, 12.8% achieved success. Participants were more likely to drop out if they had children at home and/or were experiencing generational poverty. Participants with full time employment, stable housing, access to transportation, who experienced situational poverty, held a degree or who were without children at home were more successful. The CirclesUSA approach to poverty is an effective peer coaching model.

Click here to see more.

Office of Family Assistance Publishes Brief Featuring Circles USA as Innovative Strategy for TANF

Circles USA is proud to be featured as an innovative strategy for TANF programs in a new brief, “Social Capital Initiatives To Achieve Employment Goals.” This brief is part of the Office of Family Assistance’s Emerging Practice Series, which highlights how TANF agencies and their partners are helping low-income individuals gain and sustain meaningful employment.

Here’s a description:

“TANF participants in Utah are moving from poverty to earning incomes at or above 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL) through a social capital-building strategy. Implemented by the Utah Department of Workforce Services through partnerships with community action agencies, the Circles program matches TANF participants with community volunteers in a long-term weekly support group. With this circle of support and resources, participants are empowered to move toward employment and self-sufficiency.

The brief [gives] an overview of the program model, and the results that have been achieved. Compelling stories of participants’ success and suggestions from TANF agency staff to their peers provide actionable insights and on-the-ground perspectives.”

Click here to download the brief.