Over 36 million Americans live in poverty
1 in 8 people live with a mental health disorder
1 in 8 people live with a mental health disorder
Recognizing the interconnected nature of poverty, CAN! integrates a holistic approach across all programs, focusing on addressing the root causes of poverty through education, workforce development, community development, and social justice advocacy.
1 in 8 people live with a mental health disorder
1 in 8 people live with a mental health disorder
1 in 8 people live with a mental health disorder
CAN! is addressing mental health to solve the larger health crisis by providing Psychological First Aid when disaster strikes and embedding mental health across all programs.
Community-Led: The Key to Sustainable Impact
1 in 8 people live with a mental health disorder
Community-Led: The Key to Sustainable Impact
Community Action NOW! views poverty as a systemic injustice and addresses it through a holistic approach across all programs. We prioritize the development of programs based on identified local needs and emphasize building leadership from within at every level. We focus on breaking down barriers to opportunity, advocating for equitable policies, and empowering communities to drive lasting change.
PROGRAM SOLUTIONS
GREEN ENERGY
Share the Sun Program:
This program provides access to affordable solar energy for low-income households, reducing energy costs and improving energy efficiency. This aligns with the Mission by providing a tangible, community-driven solution to reduce economic burdens and improve living conditions. It also contributes to the Vision of sustainable communities by promoting renewable energy sources.
FAMILY AND YOUTH
STEM Summer Program: This program provides engaging and enriching STEM learning experiences for youth during the summer months, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and an interest in STEM fields. This aligns with the Mission by providing educational opportunities and empowering youth for future success. It also contributes to the Vision of a future where families thrive through access to quality education and the development of essential skills.
Family Engagement: This program fosters strong family-community partnerships through events (annual Toy and Bike Give-away), workshops, and resources that support the holistic development of children and families. This aligns with the Mission by emphasizing community-driven solutions and the importance of family support systems. It contributes to the Vision of equitable and sustainable communities where families thrive.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
- CAN Academy: As an approved Workforce Development provider, CAN Academy offers a range of training programs to equip individuals with in-demand skills.
- USVI: We currently provide workforce development services in the US Virgin Islands through the local Workforce Board.
- Georgia: We are actively pursuing approval to expand our services to Georgia.
- NewRock IT Training – FREE: This program provides eligible applicants with free and comprehensive IT training, equipping them with valuable skills in computer literacy, software applications, and digital technologies. This aligns with our Mission by leveraging technology to empower youth and prepare them for the workforce. Through our partnership with Google, we provide high-quality, in-demand training to eligible participants.
- Share the Sun Solar Apprentice Program: This program offers hands-on, industry-recognized training and certification in solar installation, creating pathways to well-paying, green jobs for underserved community members. This aligns with our Workforce Solutions and addresses the Vision of empowering families through skills development and economic opportunity.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
- Savanero United NOW! (SUN): This resident-led initiative empowers Savan residents on the island of St. Thomas by providing them with leadership opportunities. Elected community members represent the interests of their neighbors, fostering a strong sense of community ownership and driving local decision-making. Residents of the Savan community meet at the Romeo Malone Community Center to discuss local issues and develop solutions.
- LEAD NOW - 12 Month Leadership Development Program: LEAD NOW equips aspiring community leaders with the skills and knowledge to become effective advocates and change-makers. This intensive program aligns with our Vision of a future driven by collective action, empowering individuals to lead the way in creating positive change within their communities.
- RESTORE NOW! This initiative focuses on the revitalization of blighted homes and schools in underserved communities, improving the quality of life and creating safer, more vibrant communities.
Target Audience: St.Thomas USVI & Ntonso, Ghana
- CAN Resource Breakfast: These regular community breakfasts provide a valuable platform for residents to connect with local resources, access important information, and build meaningful relationships with other community members. [Link to calendar for next meeting]
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
During and after disasters (natural, medical, chemical, or other), CAN plays a vital role in supporting the community, with a particular focus on historically vulnerable populations and underserved communities. We provide a range of critical services and support, including:
- Advocacy: We advocate for the needs of affected residents with local and government agencies, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
- Direct Social Services: We provide essential services such as emergency assistance, food distribution, disaster case management, and shelter support to help affected individuals and families recover.
- Community Outreach: We disseminate critical information and provide support to vulnerable populations during times of crisis, ensuring that everyone has access to the resources they need.
- Public Health: We collaborate with public health organizations to address the potential public health consequences of disasters, such as disease outbreaks, natural and environmental and mental health impacts.