Your choice to participate in the Circles project means that you have made a major decision to transform your life, and the life of your family. It means that you are willing to do whatever it takes to move from living paycheck to paycheck, month to month, to a place where you have enough money, meaning, and friends in your life to feel secure. It also means that you are willing to share your strengths and gifts with others who are working toward the same goal.

Weekly Meetings:
Circles Community Leadership meetings are held weekly from 6-8 pm at churches. Meals and child-care are provided each week. These meetings are NOT open to the public. Group members are welcome to invite interested individuals on designated “Bring a Friend” dates. Participants are expected to attend these meetings regularly throughout the duration of their Circles membership.

Responsibility & Attendance:
It is the responsibility of new participants to notify Circles staff if you are unable to attend the Circles Community Leadership meeting. Participants are required to attend each weekly meeting. As a Participant your commitment to this project will be vital in your eligibility for our project resources such as Wheels to Work, Wood for Fuel, and Bank Loans. Eligibility for project resources is not possible until participants are matched with allies. These resources are based on their availability, your individual needs and commitment to the project which includes attendance and communication with your Allies.

When will I be matched with Allies?
After attending weekly meetings for 4-6 weeks on a regular basis a participant may then become eligible to be matched with allies. This time frame allows participants to demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to the Circles project. New participants will attend an orientation and meet once with Circles staff to establish goals in each of the three focus areas: Income & Assets, Academics & Training, and Friends & Meaning, before being matched with allies. The formation of new Circles is always subject to the availability of allies.

Where do I begin?

1. Prescreen Guide
2. Circles application
3. Interview with Circles staff
4. Join Circles community – begin attending weekly Community Leadership meetings
5. Set goals in the three focus areas through a home visit with Circles staff
6. Get matched with Allies to form your own Circle
7. Communicate regularly with your allies through meetings and phone calls
8. Get out of poverty: Obtain enough money, meaning, and friends in your life to meet your basic needs on a consistent basis without subsidy
9. Become an Ally to another Circle participant in need