2024 Program Objectives

As we look to 2024, we are asking ourselves: “How can SASS have a deeper impact?” and “How do we help people get out of poverty?” We are launching some new programs to help answer some of those questions.

Foundational Principles:

• Generational cycles of poverty typically repeat themselves in children. 
• Distribution based systems have value, but do not elevate people out of poverty.  
• Change is inevitable. Growth is optional. (John Maxwell) 
• Success, health, health, fitness, wealth, and relationships are all products of consistency.  
• Systems lead to change. 

Current Programs:

• Food Distribution 
• Emergency Assistance  
• Holiday Meals & Gifts 
• Youth Programming 
• Youth Mental Health Sponsorship 
• Referrals & Follow Up 

New Opportunities:

Mentorship & Support for Adults

• Based on client feedback, develop programming to help SASS parents achieve their goals.  
• Develop a framework for 1-on-1 and group classes. Possible topics include parenting skills and strategies for the various stages of child development, budgeting and personal financial management, goal setting, how to purchase a home, and school resources for special education and English Language Learners (ELL). 
• Identify and recruit volunteers to assist with classes and individual coaching. 
• Identify other organizations that have programs that assist families in overcoming poverty. 

Youth Advocacy

• Focus on the school-age children of parents in the Mentorship & Support program. 
• Identify programmatic needs and create solutions that increase graduation rates among students and ensure they have a plan for their lives when they graduate.  
• Identify and mobilize volunteers to maximize impact. 

Overcoming Language Barriers

• Ensure that ELL families understand the resources available to overcome language barriers.  
• Recruit a pool of volunteers that can translate. 
• Advocate with the schools and at SASS. 

Senior Citizen Health & Wellness

• Work closely with Mill Pond residents to implement a 2024 wellness strategy that includes computer training, healthy eating classes, and exercise classes.