Community Action is a nationwide network of local anti-poverty organizations called Community Action Agencies (CAAs) or Community Action Programs (CAPs). These agencies work with state and federal partners to reduce the causes and conditions of poverty in communities across the country.
Community Action is rooted in the belief that local communities are best equipped to tackle local poverty. Each agency focuses on the unique needs of the people it serves, understanding that every community is different.
The Community Action Promise
Community Action changes people's lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.
A Brief History
Community Action began in 1964 with the passage of the Economic Opportunity Act, part of President Lyndon B. Johnson's War on Poverty. This legislation created the Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), which funded programs like Head Start and launched the Community Action Program.
Over time, the structure changed, but our mission remained the same:
- 1974 - The Economic Opportunity Act was replaced by the Community Services Act and the OEO was terminated and replaced by the Community Services Administration (CSA).
- 1981 - The Community Services Act was replaced by the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act
- Today, Community Action is authorized by the CSBG Act and is administered through the Office of Community Services under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
A Partner in Every Community
Today, over 1,000 local CAAs serve nearly every county in the United States. They are a trusted partner to local governments, schools, businesses, and residents, helping individuals and families build stability and communities thrive.
Want to Learn More?
Looking to dive deeper into how Community Action works?
Click here to visit the National Community Action Partnership website
Click here to visit the National Community Action Foundation website