In 2024, Central Susquehanna Opportunities (CSO) provided over 25,000 services to 11,500 individuals and 4,800 families in Columbia, Montour, and Northumberland Counties. As a community action agency, CSO provides intensive case management to individuals and families to provide opportunities, empower people, and strengthen communities. But as clients' immediate needs are met and stabilized, there is an opportunity to focus on long-term sustainability.
That's where CSO's Getting Ahead workshops come in. Certified facilitators conduct 17-week group workshops that teach financial literacy, goal setting, problem solving, relationship building, and self-sufficiency tools.
Over the last two years, nearly $30,000 in Foundation grants has supported these workshops, which benefited recent graduates like Kristy and Jennifer. "I signed up because the more we learn, the better off we are. I really learned a lot about myself and different aspects of my life," Kristy shared. The sessions on mental health and managing conflict were particularly valuable to her. "Now I'm able to share that, especially with my teenagers."
Jennifer is a mother of four and was struggling to find employment. Getting Ahead helped her see a different future for herself and her family. After learning how to manage her schedule and build life skills, she began working as a home health aide and has dreams to further her education. "It made me realize there's a lot I can do, even as a mom of four," Jennifer explained.
At the end of the program, clients are empowered with the knowledge, skills, and support to "level up", achieve their goals, and break the cycle of generational poverty. After graduation, clients are placed with a self-sufficiency coach for continued long-term goals like education, employment, and saving for the future.
"Getting Ahead provides families with new experiences and information to help support them in their journey towards self-sufficiency. Our staff is inspired by the motivation and hard work these families display, and the way the community continues to step up in support," expressed Megan Bair, CSO Chief Executive Officer. "Graduates remind us of the power in providing people with hope, resources, and a chance to dream."