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We are thrilled to welcome the newest team member at our national office, Addie Hartnett! You may remember them as a Regional Coach for CUSA’s Southern Region, a role in which they have supported and coached Circles chapter staff in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and South Carolina since 2020.  Addie’s journey with Circles began even earlier, in 2013, when they partnered with St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Orlando to start a Circles chapter in their community. The Circles Central Florida chapter has since expanded to include two locations: Circles West Orange and Circles Orlando, where Addie continues to lead. In their new position as National Coach, Addie will play a pivotal role in supporting our 80+ chapters across the nation as they implement the Circles model, as well as leading and assisting the Regional Coaches who serve our chapter staff. Get to know Addie in this Q&A, in which they share more about their personal story and hopes for Circles. Welcome, Addie! Could you recap what brought you to Circles USA? From a young age, I was curious about all the various kinds of people around me. Even as a high-schooler, I would make frequent trips to visit a group of folks who lived in the woods behind the mall in my hometown. As I studied social work in college, a natural fit for my curious and compassionate nature, I quickly realized there was something missing from this field. We learned to keep things professional and maintain a healthy set of boundaries. And, while I’m not trying to deny the value of healthy boundaries, these lessons felt to me like denying folks in need of a key resource: care—genuine, authentic, and supportive human connection. So, when I stumbled onto the lead organization for Circles Central Florida, St. Luke’s UMC of Orlando, I knew I had found the missing ingredient. What are you most looking forward to in your National Coach role? As our new National Coach, I’m really excited to work across such a diverse network of people! This is an opportunity to connect more deeply with all the remarkable work being done across the nation within our fabulous Circles chapters. I’ve had about 10 years of experience with Circles and still have so much to learn. Each Circles practitioner has their own set of tricks and innovations that I’m so excited to learn about and then help develop and share across the network! How does the Circles model of poverty alleviation speak to you, your values, and your experiences with “surviving” & “thriving” in the U.S.? The Circles model is the only of its kind that understands that true, sustainable change only comes when the issue of poverty is addressed at all levels: individual and family, community, and systems. The most basic issue that we have to address is isolation. In isolation, the best we can do is survive, not only because it’s difficult to do everything on your own, but this isolation only perpetuates stereotypes and generalizations that create policies and programs that don’t work. Whether that’s in government or in the local food bank. It’s true among any group experiencing oppression. This work of poverty reduction is so crucial to me as a queer person because when we break down the root of any form of oppression, we inherently address all forms of oppression. We the people: Black, indigenous, queer, poor, woman, disabled, immigrant, only can gain from working alongside each other to support each other’s success. Circles gets it; when we work together, we can all thrive. Will you share some fun facts about where you come from, who is in your community, and what you love to do? Raised in Merritt Island, Florida, the bioluminescence capital of the world! I have five sisters, a really close cousin who is like a sister, and 12 niblings (gender-neutral for nieces and nephews). I’m a sperm donor to a couple of little lovely children who call me Donut! We have a cute little open [adoptive] relationship similar to my connection with my niblings. I’ve sung Tenor with the Orlando Gay Chorus since 2018 and spend a lot of my free time dancing with friends and doing political activism in and around Orlando. I love meditating, practicing yoga, and doing CrossFit. Contact National Coach Addie Hartnett at Addie@CirclesUSA.org .

Last October, over 150 Circles USA staff, volunteers, partners, and friends convened at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (UMC) in Orlando, FL for our 2023 National Leadership Conference. Our first in-person convening since 2019 was incredibly inspirational, engaging our robust community of practice all across the nation. We gathered not only to reconnect with the mission, the message, and the model, but to share innovations and to begin to imagine: What does poverty alleviation look like going forward?  “This year, our theme has been Deepening and Expanding Circles,” CUSA executive director Kamatara Johnson noted in her opening remarks. “CUSA is always committed to deepening the quality of what we offer in the national office, just as much as you all in the field are committed to improving your chapter and deepening the expression of the Circles model in your community. We’re all working to do what we do better, deeper, stronger.” The 2023 conference brought together a diverse, dynamic group of Circles USA participants, from people overcoming financial obstacles to funders, policy-makers, and national partners. Our schedule was chock full of knowledge-sharing and fellowship around CUSA’s local, statewide, and national efforts to end poverty.   COMPELLING KEYNOTES FROM CUSA VETERANS AND GUESTS Circle Leaders Step into the Spotlight At this year’s Leadership Conference, we began a new tradition: opening our time together with keynote addresses by Circle Leaders, those who have lived experiences of poverty and are closest to the issues we work together to solve.  Annette, Tim, Carmen, and partners John and Rebecca each shared powerful messages of transformation and hope that set the tone for an incredible week. Building on our 2023 theme of Deepening and Expanding, these Circle Leaders described how the Circles experience has changed their knowledge and perspective of poverty and prosperity; improved their financial and social skills; helped them reach personal goals; and supported them in sharing their unique voices within their chapters and communities. Tim Rodgers of Circles West Orange, FL, described how his recovery from a personal injury became an opportunity to connect with his community. “Circles is about overcoming poverty,” he said. “Although I have not fully accomplished that end financially, I have grown to be far more than who I was when I began my journey.” Carmen Gonzalez of Circles Northwest Arkansas spoke on how CUSA helped her grow trust alongside financial stability. “Before Circles,” Carmen recalled, “I didn’t have a lot of faith in humanity. I didn’t believe in community; I didn’t have people I could depend on locally. I joined Circles and met people who genuinely cared and wanted me to succeed in ways that no one has ever wanted for me before. That was life-changing for me and my family.” Annette Brown, a longtime leader in Circles West Orange, FL, discussed the ways in which Circles connections helped her advocate for herself and stand in her power: “I hope that my sharing at the Circles conference will help other Circle Leaders to gain courage,” she said, “to step up and be seen and heard in their most authentic way possible. And to give everyone else in the room a glimpse into my life living in poverty, and out of the same lens, see me today for the woman I have become, no longer living below the poverty guidelines.” Finally, couple John and Rebecca Fabanwo (Circles Upstate SC) appeared side-by-side in a recorded message. Together they shared how they’re boldly paving the way for others through their nonprofit work that supports those in need. John remarked: “Our nonprofit, Hearts of Compassion, was started out of necessity and love for the community. We connect with local businesses to receive donations, then partner with local churches for a safe location to give away the non-perishable items to those in need in the communities. We believe that good hygiene and basic cleaning products for a family’s home are essential to give one pride, wellness and ambition to go out and succeed.” Keynote VIPs Emphasize Empathy, Philanthropy To lead us in our work of  expanding CUSA’s impact, board member and partner Christy Vines delivered a plenary talk entitled “Taking a Big View: Disrupting the Systems of Poverty with Empathy.” Christy (a featured presenter at our 2021 Virtual Leadership Conference) is the founder and president of Ideos Institute , a global leader in the research and understanding of empathic intelligence and its application to human relationships, social cohesion, and cultural change. Learn more about empathy and the Ideos-Circles USA partnership here .   Mark Brewer (President/CEO of Central Florida Foundation ) wrapped our conference keynote series with flair. His talk on strategies for independent sector workers (a.k.a. nonprofits) to engage philanthropic partners’ “heads, hearts, and wallets” was clear and galvanizing. Read more about Mark’s work at our blog , or enjoy his keynote talk now:   BREAKOUTS SHOWCASED CHAPTER LEADERSHIP 24 breakout sessions over three days addressed pressing issues for chapters throughout our Circles network, such as the intersection of poverty and mental health; new ways to tackle the Cliff Effect; and emerging trends in philanthropy. Experts from universities, nonprofits, and community-rooted organizations across the country presented new data on topics like trauma sensitive approaches to Circles; ways chapters can support Spanish-speaking Circles; empathy tools for systemic change; and leadership pathways for Circle Leaders.  One session, “Community Engagement” was presented by Lamont Hampton, Circles Davis County who was joined virtually by Councilwoman Nike Peterson in Clearfield City, UT. Together, they emphasized engaging the whole community as critical to chapters’ success and shared concrete examples, including useful interactions with city officials, as we work together to move all our community members from surviving to thriving. “When Tragedy Strikes…Preparing, Processing and Responding With Care,” presented by Addie Hartnett, Circles Central FL; and Bruce Forbes, Circles Upstate SC, thoughtfully addressed best practices in preparing for and responding to community-wide tragedies affecting Circles chapters. And “Disrupting Unconscious Bias to Build Better Relationships,” presented by Mariam Mengistie, St. Luke’s United Methodist Church (partner to Circles Central Florida), taught strategies for identifying and understanding biases, as well as tools for disrupting them on personal, interpersonal, cultural, and institutional levels. SPECIAL SESSIONS AND EVENTS Throughout the week, a series of special sessions showcased Circes USA leadership at every level.  A CUSA Board Panel discussion featured longtime board members, Joan Kuriansky , Jim Masters , and Jennifer Pelling in dialogue about topics including Big View innovations, emerging philanthropic trends, and future directions for Circles USA national leadership. The 2023 Circles USA Network Awards brought attendees to their feet in celebration of the people blazing trails in chapter leadership. Established in 2014, CUSA’s Network Awards celebrate the best of what our chapters do out in the world. This year, we received our highest-ever volume of nominations due to the outstanding leadership so many of you demonstrate in your work building community to end poverty. Awardees included: Best Video: Circles NWA Best Data Results: Circles Upstate SC Best Social Media: Circles Salt Lake Best Newsletter: Circles Salt Lake Outstanding Circle Leader: Carly Maine (Circles in Columbus) Outstanding Circle Leader: Carmen Gonzalez (Circles NWA) Outstanding Ally: Sandi Wallace (Circles West Orange) Outstanding Allies: Van and Lauren Schwiebert (Circles Hilton Head) Outstanding Resource Team Volunteer: Beth Witten (Circles Central Florida) Outstanding Coordinator: Emily Gilbertson (Circles NWA) Outstanding Coach: Joyce Schoepp (Circles Sauk Prairie).  For more information on our 2023 Network Award winners, visit our blog . Other offerings during conference week included the opportunity to attend a weekly meeting on Tuesday night with the local Circles chapters (Circles West Orange and Circles Orlando) and on Thursday post-conference, the Cost of Poverty Experiment (COPE) poverty simulation facilitated by Poverty Solutions Group (lead organization for Circles Central Florida). These additional experiences extended the conference in profound ways. IMPORTANT PARTNERS MAKING CHANGE A bevy of local and regional partners, vendors, and friends made convening in Orlando a joy. In particular, CUSA would like to recognize and thank the following people and organizations for their generous contributions to our 2023 Leadership Conference: St. Luke’s United Methodist Church staff, volunteer teams, and community members; Circles Central FL/West Orange/Orlando chapter staff, volunteers, Allies, and Circle Leaders; delicious local vendors Pammie’s Sammies, Natez Catering Company, Steve Smith and Luky Nova, and House Blend Café; and lead organization Poverty Solutions Group of Florida. 2023 CONFERENCE TAKEAWAYS AND FEEDBACK The numbers are in! From standout breakout sessions to standing-O keynote speakers, our 2023 Leadership Conference received high attendee ratings across the board. Among our highest-ranked breakout presentations were “When Tragedy Strikes…Preparing, Processing and Responding with Care”; “Peer Counseling Skills to Compliment Ally Training”; “Disrupting Unconscious Bias to Build Better Relationships”; “Racial Wealth Gap: Train the Trainers”; and “Circle Leader is More Than a Title: Why We MUST Center Leadership to End Poverty.” Presentations this year focused notably on self-care strategies, trauma-informed practices, and educational resources to address racial bias and inequalities—proof that CUSA continues to lead the field in heart-centered poverty alleviation work.  Overall, the Leadership Conference gathered 126 attendees spanning 26 states with 86 attendees identifying as CUSA conference first-timers! The event featured 24 breakout sessions and 30+ individual speakers and presentations over three days. In her remarks opening the conference’s final day, Kamatara invited attendees to imagine beyond current iterations of CUSA to bold future visions for our shared work. “For those of you who are veteran chapters,” she said, “take a moment to think how far Circles has come since you began. When Circles first started, we only had the core of the model with Circle Leaders, Allies, and youth, plus an advisory council, with limited materials and limited support. Circles 2.0 came to life with the addition of Resource Teams and the upgraded curriculum, materials, and support services from the national office. Now, we all wonder, what will Circles 3.0 look like? Truly, what will the next chapter look like for Circles USA as we turn the corner on our 26th year of building community to end poverty?”

Justin Denny Brain Garvey Abia Sebaka Lenie Nguyen In January of 2024, the University of Western Australia (UWA) published a new article, “ Poverty Reduction and Determinants of Health ,” in the academic Journal of Poverty . The paper, authored by Drs. Justin Denny, Brian Garvey, Lenie Nguyen & Abia Sebaka, “contributes to the small but growing body of literature on poverty reduction through peer mentorship programs.” The findings, the research team writes, demonstrate the positive impact of the CUSA program on income gains for [Circle Leader]s who remained in the program for an extended period or possessed a protective blend of social and demographic factors that allowed them to benefit most from program participation. In 2020, 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 researchers’ analysis compared characteristics of Circles Leaders against gains in economic progress after the completion of the 12-week class in order to inform future strategic planning efforts by Circles USA. During both rounds of analysis, the UWA team reviewed almost 10,000 records of Circle Leader data from over multiple years, finding that the majority of Circle Leaders who stay in the program for at least 18 months show significant gains in mean income, with: 12.8% of Circle Leaders reaching 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline; 32.6% of Circle Leaders doubling their income; and 70% of Circle Leaders who stay in the program for at least 18 months showing significant gains in mean income. Now the UWA research team, along with Garvey (an Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University), has synthesized this data into a new resource for academic and independent sector workers in poverty alleviation. The students previously analyzed our data to locate opportunities for Circles USA leadership to conduct continuous quality improvement analysis “in order to identify subpopulations which may require additional support to achieve desired goals.” In “Poverty Reduction,” they conclude that “[d]espite significant research efforts and focused interventions at the local, national and global scale, the reduction of poverty remains a critical challenge for societies.” They continue:  Our study …revealed certain factors that negatively impacted the [Circle Leaders]’ ability to achieve significant income gains. Participants who experienced generational poverty, those with children, and those who self-identify as Black/African American/African or male all faced greater challenges in attaining target income levels. This finding highlights the complexity of poverty, the enduring legacy of poverty and racism, and suggests that additional support and tailored interventions may be necessary for individuals facing multiple layers of disadvantage. As Circles USA enters our 26th year of building community to end poverty, our leadership will use the UWA study findings to inform strategic planning and improvements to our model and materials that better support Circle Leaders and other participants who are working towards social and economic justice in our 78+ chapter network.  To learn more about how Circles USA is leveraging qualitative and quantitative research to support our poverty alleviation work, visit the Case Studies and Impact Report pages at www.circlesusa.org .  25 Years Strong, 25 States Wide! To support Circles USA, visit our donation page today.

Welcome to our 2023 multimedia Impact Report, The Next Chapter… Inside, you’ll find: Several new short films, including a virtual welcome from executive director Kamatara Johnson; a virtual tour of weekly chapter meeting; a Cliff Effect primer video; and electrifying keynote talks by Circle Leaders filmed live at our National Leadership Conference. More National Leadership Conference recaps, from plenary and breakout session highlights to in-depth attendee feedback. National and chapter news digests compiled from Circles USA’s pivotal 25th Anniversary year. Updated language for Circles USA’s Mission and Vision. Annual data and statistics that illuminate the efficacy of the Circles model, chapter expansion, demographic breakdowns, and more. Our National Big View Team, Board Advisory Council, and Regional/National Coach updates highlighting our robust leadership and program expansion. As always, we offer profound gratitude to our Circles community of practice: the staff, volunteers, Circle Leaders, and generous donors who made the 2023 Impact Report possible. VIEW OUR 2023 IMPACT REPORT Click the donate button now to celebrate 25 years of Circles with your monthly gift of $25 or more!

Women’s History Month gives us the opportunity to celebrate the many women who have made history and those who are still in the process of making it. Women who make history do so in a variety of ways, bearing many different life stories. History-making women were a force, for instance, at our 2023 Circles USA National Leadership Conference . Perhaps she was one of our keynote speakers, someone we met over lunch or in a workshop, discussing her personal strategies for moving out of poverty or those undertaken by the Big View Team in her chapter. Talking with so many powerful, active Circle Leaders in Orlando reminded me of Gloria Steinem’s book Outrageous Acts and Everyday Rebellions . Moving out of poverty does take some extraordinary acts of nerve (and, yes, even rebellion) to defy “the feminization of poverty” that exists here and throughout the world. Dr. Diana Pearce, a colleague of mine at Wider Opportunities for Women, coined this now-ubiquitous phrase in 1978. In her pioneering work, Dr. Pearce made clear that women are more likely to be poor than men. She recognized the structural forces that impede women’s ability to be financially secure and to create safe, healthy lives for ourselves and our families. Repeatedly, we see women relegated to low-paying service sector jobs, earning less than men doing comparable work. Women struggle disproportionately with the impact of domestic violence; we bear the physical, emotional, and economic tolls of caregiving for our children and aging or disabled family members. In the context of our ongoing COVID pandemic and resulting labor crises, economists have framed this phenomenon as the “Shecession.” Women represent the majority of low-wage workers and are the first to be laid off, the last to be rehired, and the least likely to qualify for unemployment insurance. While these injustices are daunting, Women’s History Month reminds us that women with lived experiences of poverty can, and do, make outsized impacts on society—sometimes to the benefit of many, but always inspiring us with a vision of what is possible. Entertainers Oprah Winfrey and Dolly Parton have grappled with poverty; as have Civil Rights icons Fannie Lou Hamer and Rosa Parks (whose parents, although employed, could not afford to pay for Rosa’s needed medical surgery). Trailblazing Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote about the impact of childhood poverty in her autobiography My Beloved World . Sarah Jessica Parker, celebrated for her role as Carrie on HBO’s Sex and the City , grew up in a family of nine kids whose parents often found themselves unable to pay a phone or electric bill.  One does not have to be a Supreme Court Justice or a Hollywood celebrity to make history. Women who are poor, who provide for themselves and their families, make choices every day that take courage. The 2020 Census revealed that more women experience poverty than men. For women of color—particularly Black, Indigenous, and Latino—the gap is even greater. 2024 is a pivotal year for women and their families living in poverty. This year’s local, state, and national elections will have a significant impact on women’s economic well-being and that of our families. Please join Circles’ “Our Votes Count Campaign” as voters, leaders, and educators. Use our voices to speak up for quality jobs and demand that women have affirmative access to them, implement paid family and sick leave, increase availability of benefit programs, reduce the cliff benefit, and create universal health care and childcare. All of these policies have a disproportionate impact on women, particularly single moms, and women of color. Let’s make history in 2024.   Joan A. Kuriansky , Current Chair of the Circles USA Board, has been on the Board since May 2007. She is the creator of our 6-point policy platform addressing six key issues our chapters flagged as high priorities to alleviate poverty. She has worked in the social justice field throughout her versatile career as an attorney; executive director of local and national non-profits; and board member or volunteer at local, national, and international levels. As Executive Director of Women Against Abuse (Phil. PA); the Older Women’s League (DC); and Wider Opportunities for Women (DC), Joan has addressed issues including social security, pension, and health care reform; violence against women; and many issues related to economic self-sufficiency for women, girls, and families. Joan draws on her Jewish and feminist values in supporting social justice and human rights, here, in the Middle East, Ukraine and other countries.

Did you know that—historically and to this day—a majority of Circles USA participants are women? 85% of Circle Leaders in 2023 were women; and women and girls make up the lion’s share of active family learners in CUSA’s Ally and Circle Leader training, financial literacy programs, volunteers, and staff. Our national leadership team comprises four women and one gender non-binary staffer, plus a 3-1 female majority Board of Directors. One of these women, Joan Kuriansky—whose recent post “ Circles Honors Women’s History Month: Call to Action by Board Member Joan Kuriansky ” launched our WHM series—is best known to the CUSA community of practice as the author of our six-point Policy Platform . In every respect, women shape the language, direction, and collective spirit of CUSA’s mission of building community to end poverty.    As well as highlighting the accomplishments of our many outstanding women participants throughout the month, on March 12 we celebrate Equal Pay Day in the U.S. Despite meaningful advancements in many aspects of gender equality, data reminds us that poverty still disproportionately affects women in the U.S. and globally.  In 2022, American women were typically paid 83 cents for every dollar that a white, non- Hispanic man earns in the same role. This discrepancy is even greater for women of color. [ Source ] U.S. poverty rates are also significantly higher for unmarried women, especially those with children, with nearly one-in-four living below the poverty line. [ Source ] Projects like the Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund’s “Legal Momentum” examine anti-poverty work through a gendered lens, with the goal of keeping women and children (who make up the majority of Americans living in poverty at 70 percent) at the center of policy. Further, “Women in America are still 35 percent more likely than men to be poor in America, with single mothers facing the highest risk. Currently, 35 percent of single women with children live and raise their families in poverty.” [ Source ] Globally, it’s estimated that 383 million women and girls live on less than $1.90 a day —roughly 15 million more than the number of men and boys. [ Source ] In the UN’s gender snapshot from 2023, they predicted that, unless we course-correct, “340 million women and girls will be living in extreme poverty by 2030.” Their report named food insecurity, maternal mortality, and education access and completion as some of the primary challenges facing women across the globe. [ Source ] Poverty’s impact on women doesn’t show up just in obvious, measurable ways. It can also affect their confidence, social and domestic independence, and political autonomy.  A recent study by Heather McCulloch and Céline Apollon published by The 19th (an independent, nonprofit newsroom reporting on gender, politics and policy) asked women across the country, “What would the economy look like if it worked for you?” Among the top obstacles they named were: inflation struggling to make ends meet housing costs caregiving responsibilities low wages long hours the gender pay gap lack of confidence lack of education The most common solutions named by women include: remote work options raising the minimum wage raising income and asset limits to access benefit programs teaching women and girls how to be financially independent enacting a national paid family leave policy closing the gender gap increasing access to affordable child care promoting women into leadership roles at work These solutions span issues that impact low-income women and families in both domestic and work arenas. Perhaps this is why multidimensional solutions like Circles are effective. The Circles model takes into account the whole individual and the whole family. This holistic approach equips Circle Leaders with practical financial literacy tools and opportunities to advance systemic change, while surrounding them with invaluable community support.  “Our Circles program starts with a class,” says Sherri Brown, executive director of Circles Troup County, GA. “They come to us, we sit down and talk with them to make sure we’re all on the same page. And then we put the support systems, the people, the encouragement, the cheering in place so people can be successful.”   Amber Edwards , a former trainer with Circles Green Bay, WI, has experienced many of the personal and professional transformations that come with long-term investment in the Circles community of practice.  “My hope,” Amber says, “Is that there will be a pocket of people in every community that’s willing to advocate for changes. Your advocacy is the way to make change, because the more eyes you have on these problems the closer we get to a solution. Ultimately, as a community, as a nation, we have to decide that we deserve better. That’s the key to advocacy, that’s the key to change.” … Learn more about CUSA’s Women’s History Month activities on our blog: “ Circles Honors Women’s History Month: Call to Action by Board Member Joan Kuriansky ”

For our Women in Leadership series , we were honored to interview Charlene Pitchford, a graduated Circle Leader who has become a trusted community leader in Richmond, VA. A native of Washington D.C., Charlene is a board member with Circles RVA. She currently serves as the Treasurer of the Gilpin Court Tenant Council and has been active in several local organizations, including the Historic Jackson Ward Association, George Washington Carver Elementary School Parent Teacher Association, and Healthy Start RVA. In 2023, Charlene was elected Vice Chair of RRHA (Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority). She will step into the role of Ally for Circles RVA’s next cohort, due to launch in May 2024. Charlene, what has your leadership experience in Circles meant to you? My experience in Circles has meant three things to me. The first is a new beginning towards becoming self-sufficient . By “a new beginning,” I mean that I had no clue what it really meant to be self-sufficient before I joined Circles RVA. I thought of self-sufficiency as a way of making do with what you had, relying solely on benefits programs, and trying to find every giveaway program in Richmond, Virginia. Circles RVA made me realize that nothing in life is free; someone had to pay for every [dollar] I was receiving in benefits from the federal and state assistance programs.  Circles RVA helped me to understand what a budget is. I learned how a well-planned budget can help me meet my financial goals and objectives. As I tracked where all my money was spent, I began to see that I had to get off the path that I was on. I had to change my spending habits to become more efficient with the resources and income coming into my household. I also had to learn that changing a bad spending habit is being honest with those who are trying to help you become self-sufficient. The second thing that I learned from my leadership experiences in Circles RVA, was learning to trust a stranger with intimate things in my life, such as my family dynamic (the size of my family, what things do we like to do, what time is “family time,” how does my husband feel about Circles RVA, etc.). Before Circles RVA, I had people come into my life to do things that benefited them —not me. I was a foster child who had no family members [growing up] to help me with basic life skills. Finally, I learned from my leadership experiences in Circles RVA to change my mind about being self-reliant and have confidence in myself : to become independent of federal and state welfare programs as my only income. When I started looking for jobs during my time in Circles RVA, I was scared at first. I didn’t want to lose my federal and state benefits. Once I was working, however, I started feeling much better about being self-sufficient. When I learned how to make a budget to determine what I should and shouldn’t spend my money on, I had a new beginning to start living.  Why is it important that women lead poverty reduction work? Women need to stay focused on things that cause financial barriers. We seem to struggle with competing for good paying jobs. The #MeToo movement and others like it [show] that we want our voices to be heard about disparities, especially [for] low-income women.  Women’s health issues need focus, in my opinion, due to the lack of access and affordability. In most families, women are the income maker. But the type and [quality] of care women receive is often based on what type of insurance they can afford. Women are faced with decision-making; that can lead to stress, which can lead to health issues. Low-income women may experience more stressors than higher-income women. And in the real world, when you go to the doctor, all the doctor wants to hear is what brought you to the doctor and how they can help you. There is no [medical] help available like Circles RVA, [where] participants can make their goals, objectives, and dreams a reality.  What is one important thing you have learned working with people over the years? I learned from collaborating with leaders over the years to listen and be slow. To quote my mother, “It is better to have peace than to give peace. Because when you have peace (such as peace of mind), a thing just goes smoother. One may get tired of giving peace.” I’ve also learned the true [meaning of] the word Accountability—how I must take responsibility for my actions. What do you think is the most crucial quality for women in leadership? To lead with assertiveness and with compassion for others’ feelings, even if you may not agree with [their] opinions or goals. Being honest is the best quality one can have, and I believe everyone should think positive and lead with integrity. Click the donate to Circles USA button and help us celebrate 25 years of extraordinary women building community to end poverty!

Job Title: Regional Coach Location: Remote (within the Southern United States) About Circles USA: Circles USA is a national non-profit organization dedicated to ending poverty and supporting communities through sustainable solutions and inclusive practices. Our mission is building community to end poverty through intentional friendships, personal transformation and systemic change led by the people closest to the challenge. Position Overview: Circles USA is seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to serve as a national ambassador, focusing on regional community engagement in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. As National Ambassador the Regional Coach will play a pivotal role in fostering relationships, facilitating collaboration, and supporting the growth and sustainability of Circles chapters within the designated region.  We are offering a part-time contract position, requiring approximately 3-5 hours per week. Responsibilities: Regional Community of Practice Calls: – Host monthly Regional Community of Practice calls to facilitate collaboration, knowledge sharing, and relationship-building among Circles chapters in the region. Wellness Calls: – Facilitate annual Wellness calls with chapters in the region, ensuring the well-being and support of community members and volunteers. Planning Calls for New Chapters: – Facilitate planning calls for newly signed chapters in the region during the second half of their startup phase, providing guidance, support, and resources to ensure a successful launch. Coaching Calls: – Provide coaching support to regional chapters throughout the year, addressing specific needs and challenges as requested by the chapters. Communication and Documentation: – Regularly communicate with regional chapters to foster connections and encourage participation in community events and opportunities. – Maintain detailed records of monthly regional meetings and individual chapter interactions. – Utilize the Circles USA database to record information for individual chapter calls, ensuring accurate documentation and information sharing. Financial Reporting: – Submit monthly invoices to Circles USA for services rendered, including dates, hours, and detailed tasks completed. Qualifications: Demonstrated commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) principles and practices. A firm understanding of the Circles model and demonstrated experience in its implementation and support of a Circles chapter. Skilled in virtual communication tools for effective remote collaboration. Strong virtual interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders. Excellent virtual communication skills, both verbal and written, with attention to detail and accuracy. Experience in virtual community engagement, facilitation, or program coordination preferred, with openness to further development in virtual capacities. Ability to work independently and remotely, with a proactive and self-motivated approach to tasks and responsibilities. Able to manage own schedule and prioritize tasks efficiently while working remotely. Familiarity with database management is a plus Application Process: To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the position. In your cover letter, please include examples of your experience working with diverse communities and promoting inclusion. Additionally, we encourage you to provide specific details about your previous work with Circles USA, highlighting any relevant achievements or contributions to the organization’s mission and goals. Circles USA is an equal opportunity employer and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our mission. Application Deadline: April 19, 2024 Contact Information: For inquiries or to submit your application, please contact Gena Atcher (gena@circlesusa.org). Join us in working towards our shared vision where all individuals live in equitable, thriving communities where poverty no longer exists.

A Circles USA chapter supports many volunteers who are the hands and feet of our organization: they give of their time generously by providing intentional friendships, meals, childcare, administrative support, resources, and connections by serving on a Resource Team, becoming an Ally, or offering up any other creative capacity the chapters could use. Our Circles volunteers are essential as we are building community to end poverty. This national Volunteer Month, Circles is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of our thoughtful and dedicated volunteers by sharing testimonials from their peers. Whether in response to our call for Outstanding Volunteer nominations or just giving a little shine on social media, our network didn’t hesitate to sing their volunteers’ praises!  Here, in nominators’ own words, are a few of the bright stars who make up our CUSA volunteer community of practice. Amanda Ott (Bridges Alliance of Johnson County, IN) Nominated by Jillian Pierce, Bridges Alliance Circles Coach “Circles Johnson County and our sponsor organization, Bridges Alliance of Johnson County, have been incredibly fortunate to have had a phenomenal Marketing and Social Media coordinator in Amanda for the last 6 years. Amanda joined the team to “help organize a spreadsheet,” and countless newsletters, social media posts, brochures designed, and events promoted later, she is stepping out of this role. She really has personified what passion and professionalism looks like in a volunteer, and we are having a hard time imagining life without her! The good news is that Amanda will be staying on as a member of the Circles Big View Team, so we will still benefit from her gifts and expertise!” Sidney Bruner (Circles Salt Lake, UT) Nominated by Kelli Parker , Circles Salt Lake Coordinator “We are incredibly thankful to our Children’s Program Volunteer, Sidney, for nominating Circles Salt Lake to the Baker Tilly Foundation. The Baker Tilly Foundation awards 15 nonprofit organizations that are nominated by their team members to receive a $10,000 grant. There were more than 200 nominations by employees, and Circles Salt Lake was one of the 15 selected! Thank you to Sidney for being so thoughtful and nominating us, but most importantly, thank you for the impact you are making in our community and for promoting the work that is being done. Below is the heartfelt message that Sidney shared in nominating Circles Salt Lake.” When I first moved to Salt Lake City, I sought a way to give back to the community. I decided to start volunteering with Circles because I believe in its mission of empowering people to break the cycle of poverty and create a better future for themselves and their families. What didn’t I expect? I wouldn’t just be giving back to the Salt Lake community, but I would be welcomed into a new community with open arms. I join the Circles Salt Lake community every Thursday for dinner and a training session. I work with the children of the participants, who are also learning valuable skills and habits to succeed in life. The younger children play games and do crafts, while the older ones follow a curriculum that teaches them about goal setting, communication, and other topics. I enjoy spending time with the kids and seeing them grow and learn. I also appreciate the opportunity to connect with the parents and the other volunteers, who share their stories and experiences with me. Volunteering at Circles has been a rewarding and meaningful experience for me. It has allowed me to live out the Baker Tilly value of stewardship in a city without a Baker Tilly office and create connections with people from various backgrounds. I am proud to be part of this organization and to help people achieve their dreams. Lori and Mitch Phillips | Circles Cobb, GA Nominated by Barbara Garner, Circles Cobb Executive Director “Circles Cobb would like to highlight one of our champion volunteers, Lori Phillips. When Lori learned about Circles, our mission, and the incredible impact that this organization has across North America—she jumped in with both feet! Lori joined Circles as a board member (she is now our board secretary) and an Ally. Lori’s husband, Mitch, wanted to jump in as well! In addition to pulling double-duty as a board member and Ally, Lori brings pastries from Honeysuckle Biscuits and Bakery (the restaurant that she and Mitch own) to our monthly board meetings, and still finds time to join Barbara (Circles Cobb ED) at occasional speaking engagements. Lori is a servant-leader, always ready to help in any way she can. Thank you, Lori (and Mitch), for all you do to further Circles’ mission and for giving your time, treasure, and talent to end poverty in our community.” Watch outstanding Circles volunteers at work in their home chapter in our recently released Weekly Meeting Virtual Tour Video . Click the donate to Circles USA button and help us celebrate 25 years of extraordinary volunteers building community to end poverty!

A Circles USA chapter supports many volunteers who are the hands and feet of our organization: they give of their time generously by providing intentional friendships, meals, childcare, administrative support, resources, and connections by serving on a Resource Team, becoming an Ally, or offering up any other creative capacity the chapters could use. Our Circles volunteers are essential as we are building community to end poverty. This national Volunteer Month, Circles is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of our thoughtful and dedicated volunteers by sharing testimonials from their peers. Whether in response to our call for Outstanding Volunteer nominations or just giving a little shine on social media, our network didn’t hesitate to sing their volunteers’ praises!  Here, in nominators’ own words, are a few of the bright stars who make up our CUSA volunteer community of practice. Billie Dodson (Circles in Columbus, GA) Nominated by Barbara Moushon, Circles in Columbus Coordinator “Billie [center] retired over 20 years ago and has been a volunteer with Circles in Columbus for nearly 10 years. She is our “KITCHEN QUEEN”! She is here every week unless on a mission trip. While we are fortunate to have most meals donated, if we have an uncovered night, Billie will make a special trip to review what she had saved in our freezer…. She will also stop at the store and bring in other things to supplement the meal. She is the hostess for all of our meal providers and makes certain every need is taken care of. In addition to cleaning our Circles ‘mess,’ she will scrub whatever she can while she is here.   Billie’s most generous gift of time comes whenever we have a graduation celebration. She arrives hours early to place fabric tablecloths on all the tables and has boxes of very special items to decorate the table. She provided the following, which we use at the closing of each celebration (everything on your table has a meaning!): Tablecloths cover scratches and marks…just as we cover our scars. Glasses are made of sand, which under high heat and pressure becomes clear glass.  We experience high stress and pressure but then transform ourselves with new skills. Candles shine through the glass, representing the light of knowledge and the light you project. Strings of Pearls: Pearls are precious and made from a single grain of sand that was actually an irritant to a living oyster. The oyster sent secretions to cover the grain of sand to ease the pain. It takes a long, long, time for the sharp pain to ease, and this irritant eventually becomes a beautiful gem. Just as the oyster eases its own pain, ultimately creating a beautiful gem—so do you. Your efforts are making you a shining gem.  We are just like the table decorations: We gain new knowledge that helps us shine, and we become more valuable and precious with every challenge we take. Everyone here is beautifully made and we become more brilliant with your efforts to overcome your challenges. It takes hours, even days for Miss Billie to recover from these events.  The huge fabric table coverings must be washed and laid out for days on beds in her home to dry and be pressed.  Each candle and glass item (there are several on each table) are carefully wrapped.  We try to help as we repack at the end of the night, but I have a feeling that she redoes each one. She cares for everyone and makes certain there are to-go plates for any late arrivals, then secures the rest for our future meals. Billie is our rock!” Erica Lattanzio (Circles NWA, AR) Nominated by Christina WIlliams, Founder & Executive Director, Innovative Poverty Solutions/ Circles NWA “Erica L is our Big View Co-Chair. She has been with us from almost the beginning and is a fierce advocate for our community. She has helped shape our various community education events, she shows up for calls with the city even though she works full-time, she goes with Circle Leaders to city council or quorum court meetings, and she always holds the Circle Leader’s leadership as the highest priority. She is a super-volunteer in all ways!” Washtenaw Community Team (Circles Washtenaw County, MI) Nominated by Tracey Hoesch, Circles Director of Washtenaw County “I’d like to nominate the Circles Washtenaw County Community Team. They are a small and dedicated group of volunteers that keep our large group fed every Tuesday night, and they do it with a cheerful attitude and a loving spirit. They create a safe and welcoming environment for our Circle Leaders, families and volunteers; and even though most of their work is behind the scenes, their gracious presence is felt every week.” Mateja Lund (Circles Salt Lake, UT) Nominated by Kelli Parker, Circles Salt Lake Volunteer Coordinator “Mateja is the Chair of our Big View team. She is not only passionate about the mission of this team but she is a leader. She came onto this team and ran with our ideas. She recently has moved out of state but continues to serve as the Chair and conducts our monthly Zoom meetings, set up our Big View nights and is diligent in moving the needle.” Renee Frye (Circles Hilton Head, SC)  Nominated by Shavonne Vasquez (Circles Hilton Head Coach) and Circles HH team “Renee’s been on the Children’s Team as a lead teacher since we launched our chapter in January of 2023. [She] continues to impress us with her willingness to support the Circles initiative and remains committed to the work she does. By coincidence, the group of children Renee works with every week is the busiest group in our program. In addition to typical challenges expected within their age range, the group has faced a number of obstacles in maintaining a climate hospitable to learning. Contributing factors include behavioral, developmental, and even what some may perceive as trauma-induced physiological responses. Overall Renee manages a classroom filled with very impressionable children, and she does a fantastic job keeping them safe. Renee promotes a safe and functional environment by taking all reasonable precautions to protect these vulnerable children. She has always demonstrated sensitivity to the cultural diversity within the group and continues to promote a welcoming space. Many parents have admitted they return from week to week because they recognize the positive impact programing has had on their children. One mother said, ‘I don’t know what they’re doing back there but my kids absolutely love coming here.’ We are so pleased to say that what Renee is ‘doing back there’ really matters.” Nike Peterson (Circles Davis County, UT) Nominated by Lamont Hampton, Circles Coach for Family Connection Center/Circles Davis County “Councilwoman Nike Peterson began her journey with Circles Davis County in 2016 and has been a vital piece [of] our Big View Team. From taking families up to the capital to advocating for low-income families, Nike has gone above and beyond!! She has kicked off a 6-month Big View plan, and that plan has monthly topics [like] ‘Using Your Voice,’ where she encourages Circle leaders and the community to use their voice to make change; how and where to use our voices; implementing a plan and executing it, etc. She has also brought an elected official to show us how to express ourselves when speaking with elected officials. The final piece of this Big View is to get Cliff Effects on the bill.” Read Part 1 of our All-Star Volunteers series on our blog . Watch outstanding Circles volunteers at work in their home chapter in our recently released  Weekly Meeting Virtual Tour Video. Click the donate to Circles USA button and help us celebrate 25 years of extraordinary volunteers building community to end poverty!

A Circles USA chapter supports many volunteers who are the hands and feet of our organization: they give of their time generously by providing intentional friendships, meals, childcare, administrative support, resources, and connections by serving on a Resource Team, becoming an Ally, or offering up any other creative capacity the chapters could use. Our Circles volunteers are essential as we are building community to end poverty. This national Volunteer Month, Circles is proud to recognize the outstanding contributions of our thoughtful and dedicated volunteers by sharing testimonials from their peers. Whether in response to our call for Outstanding Volunteer nominations or just giving a little shine on social media, our network didn’t hesitate to sing their volunteers’ praises!  Here, in nominators’ own words, are a few of the bright stars who make up our CUSA volunteer community of practice. Stan & Marrianne Slonina (Circles Scott County, KY) Nominated by Jennifer Lay, Transform Scott County Poverty Alleviation Coordinator  “I would like to recognize my super volunteers Stan & Marrianne Slonina. They have been with Circles Scott County since the beginning, way back in August 2022. Stan & Marrianne started out as Allies, but they quickly became Super Volunteers for us. Although they have done an amazing job as Allies to their Circle Leader, when I met with them for feedback about the financial literacy programs we were presenting, Stan had some great suggestions. So great that I said, ‘That sounds like you really have a handle on what this should look like–can you create it?’ They went to work (I’ve heard Stan did most of it.) and blended two different financial literacy programs–keeping what was most relevant to our group. When they brought this binder of lessons, they also offered to teach it for the next 6 months! I didn’t have to do anything except look it over and approve it. Stan & Marrianne are always willing to help out in whatever area is needed. They are a fantastic team and I feel very privileged to have them as a part of our Circles Scott County community!” Ben Damstedt and Josh Nelson (Circles Salt Lake, UT) Nominated by Circles Salt Lake chapter staff “Ben and Josh have been steadfast pillars of support for Marcella, guiding her through the myriad of challenges she has faced. Whether navigating financial constraints, educational goals, or personal setbacks, they stand by her side, offering guidance, empathy, and practical solutions. Rather than seeing Marcella’s circumstances as limitations, Ben and Josh have empowered her to dream big and pursue her ambitions with confidence. They have consistently reinforced her belief in herself, reminding her that her background does not dictate her future and that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible. Here are a few words from the Allies as they give their insight into their experience at Circles. I learned about Circles a couple years ago as more of my children were moving out and I had more time on my hands to be involved in something useful. I found Circles on the JustServe.org app and was very impressed with the Circles model. It seems to have long-lasting effects in helping people lead themselves out of poverty. And I wanted a personal experience; not just to mindlessly donate money to another cause. I encourage others to come get involved. Being an Ally is meaningful, enlightening… It’s person-to-person, boots on the ground where the rubber meets the road. —Josh I learned about Circles from an article in the local newspaper. The article described the Circles model of building a community around people trying to climb out of poverty. I kept thinking about Circles and joined as an Ally about a year later. I’ve built friendships with many people I wouldn’t have even met otherwise, let alone gotten to know well. The Circle Leader I work with is a delight, and I love working with the rest of the Circles community. Being an Ally is a great way to make a real difference in someone’s life while they’re making a real difference in yours. —Ben Read Parts 1 and 2 of our All-Star Volunteers series on our blog.  Watch outstanding Circles volunteers at work in their home chapter in our recently released Weekly Meeting Virtual Tour Video . Click the donate to Circles USA button and help us celebrate 25 years of extraordinary volunteers building community to end poverty!

As Circles USA continues to expand, the national office is grateful to add more infrastructure and reach to our system of chapter support. To that end, regional coaches now support the West, the Midwest, the South, and the Mid-Atlantic Regions. Working across geographic, economic, and political boundaries, each regional coach hosts monthly regional community of practice calls for mutual support and collaboration, coaches their regional chapters on a regular basis, and advises new chapters in their early design phase before launch. They also support regional collaborations to expand local Big View efforts so as to have a greater impact on systemic change and inform the national office of regional trends and needs. This blog series introduces you to Circles USA’s Regional Coaches: who they are; where they come from; and how their leadership helps realize CUSA’s vision, in which all individuals live in equitable, thriving communities where poverty no longer exists. My name is… Andrew. I have been the Executive Director of Circles of Grant County (Marion, IN) since it started in 2013. Prior professional experiences include work in public health/substance abuse prevention, education, church ministry, and tax preparation. I have been married to Melissa for 23 years and we have three kids and two golden retrievers. I enjoy the outdoors. Hiking, backpacking, kayaking are some of my go-to activities when I have a chance to get away. Wood working, reading non-fiction, and gardening are some of my hobbies.   My important life experiences, journeys, challenges and accomplishments include… I can think of a number of people and experiences that have shaped me, but one of the more formative experiences was the year I spent as a teacher (and student!) in an under-resourced 2nd grade classroom. Those kids taught me so much about myself, about poverty, trauma, race, vulnerability, resilience, hope, pain and grief. Professionally, I have never experienced a more challenging year. Even though it has been almost 20 years, I often think of those kids and the various moments we shared. I am inspired, delighted and troubled in remembering. A few of the things I learned that significantly shape what I bring to Circles are: Deep wounds often lead to behaviors that push people away, yet safe and caring relationships are critical to healing. Powerlessness to change your situation is not only a bad thing.  It can be the driver of our willingness to reach out. A friend that sticks with you through hard things and has the courage to love you and speak honestly and directly, even at the risk of hurting you, is a treasured gift. I received a master class on these things that year I spent with seven and eight year olds. Now I get to continue to build on that learning in the friendships I have in Circles. One Thing We Want Potential Circles Participants To Know Is… I look forward to serving as the Midwest Regional Coach. My hope is that we can work together to develop rhythms and a culture that allow us to build trust, laugh and cry, and give and receive support.  If we do that, we will be better equipped to serve the folks with whom we have the privilege of working.