Staff report
news@wbcowqel.com
It can be a real challenge to get ahead when you start from behind. But a group in Crawford County has set out to give a boost to those who sincerely want one.
The Getting Ahead Program is a small group of local individuals, agencies and churches who are interested in helping individuals with limited resources get ahead. The goal is to find individuals who are tired of their current situation; tired of just surviving and want to make a change.
They are looking for those who have tried but seem to continue to struggle. The end goal is to help them become employable and self-sufficient through learning about themselves and their community and developing the resources they need to become successful in their community.
Individuals will complete an application and interview to determine if they are interested and able to attend all of the sessions. Onsite childcare and a meal will be provided for each session in order to make it easier for individuals to attend. Transportation will be available upon request. Individuals will also receive an incentive to attend the sessions.
Throughout the class the individuals create a mental model of poverty; discover the hidden rules of each social class; assess their personal resources and develop their own plan to move out of poverty. Once the individuals complete the Getting Ahead sessions they are matched with an ally (intentional friend) to answer questions the individuals may have about middle class values and to hold the individuals accountable to accomplish their plan. The Getting Ahead program is not a short term fix or handout but a long term process where individuals make life changes to improve themselves, their families and their community.
There are also opportunities to play a supporting role in the program. Sponsors are needed for books, individuals and even classes. Donation needs range from $20 to $4,200.
While the program itself is 16 sessions, there is an initial introduction to the program at 7 p.m., Aug. 5 at the Galion Alliance Church. For additional information about Getting Ahead, including volunteer opportunities, call CONTACT Crawford County at 419-562-9010.