Annual Report 2016-17

2016-2017 Annual Report

The New River Community Action 2016-2017 Annual Report is Dedicated to the Memory of

Emma Fuller 1949-2016

New River Community Action Pulaski Head Start Center Aide 2007-2016

“ It takes a big heart to help shape little minds. ” (Author Unknown)

Organizational Values New River Community Action, Inc. strives to accomplish its mission by: • Focusing on the needs of people through interactive, participatory processes • Increasing community awareness regarding poverty issues • Advocating for the needs of participants • Striving for social justice • Providing and promoting leadership • Fostering a proactive approach • Continuously developing, evaluating and improving programs using an outcome measures approach • Respecting all people and their contributions • Recognizing individual and group achievements • Creating a caring environment that encourages openness, trust and compassion • Valuing independence, interdependence and self-reliance • Encouraging personal integrity, effectiveness and performance • Providing equal opportunities for individuals to achieve their full potential • Encouraging innovation, creativity, risk taking and teamwork NRCA Mission T he mission of New River Community Action, Inc. is to promote and support the well-being and self-reliance of individuals, families and communities.

• Fostering cooperative and collaborative relationships • Maintaining organizational integrity and effectiveness • Promoting responsible stewardship of resources • Committing resources to organizational growth and development

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C ommunity 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.

The Promise of Community Action

Message from Board of Directors Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

New River Community Action is proud to present our Annual Report highlighting agency accomplishments during the 2016-2017 program year. In partnership with community groups, grantors, and donors, NRCA provided hope and help to 11,977 local individuals through services that meet basic needs, strengthen families, and promote economic stability. In 2016-2017 we added a new program - SwiftStart - made possible through collaboration with Total Action for Progress (TAP), our Community Action neighbor in Roanoke. Designed with a “whole family” approach, SwiftStart offers education and job training services to parents with children ages 13 and younger. The program uses a two-generation model, helping parents pursue training leading to middle and high- skilled, full-time employment while assisting with child care for their children. Further expanding our two-generation focus, NRCA developed a new partnership with New River Community College, establishing the Head Start Early Learning Center (ELC) on the Dublin campus. A valuable resource for parents working or taking classes at the college, the ELC served 18 children and their families during 2016-2017. NRCA also developed a new partnership with Radford City Public Schools, creating a Head Start/Virginia Preschool Initiative braided classroom at McHarg Elementary School. Through these and other programs described in this Annual Report, we carry forward our mission only with the assistance of our dedicated staff and many volunteers and supporters. They include members of our hardworking Board of Directors, advisory boards and councils, federal, state and local governments, foundations, United Way and our donors. Your support is vital, and we thank you.

John McEnhill Chairman Board of Directors

Ms. Terry Smusz Chief Executive Officer

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NRCA Board of Directors 2016/2017

JOHN MCENHILL , CHAIRPERSON

TERRY MAYS , VICE CHAIR

ELAINE POWELL , SECRETARY/TREASURER

John Getgood Sarah Greene Kathryn Hoover Rebecca Hosey

Amy Provencher Sally Quesenberry Gina Rhea

Robert Simpkins Corbin Vierling Tonia Winn

Kristin Adams Aline Brinckman Don Clark Mary Critzer

Board of Directors provided over 600

volunteer hours to the leadership of New River Community Action in 2016/17.

LOCALADVISORY BOARDS NRCA Advisory Groups 2016/2017 FLOYD COUNTY

PROGRAMADVISORY COUNCIL CHILDREN’S HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP ADVISORY COUNCIL Joan Behl Erin Cruise Angie Nichols Gabrielle Pannell Debbie Poff Rhonda Seltz Sharite Webb Jennifer Woodruff

Sharite Webb Jennifer Woodruff

MONTGOMERY COUNTY Lindsay West Larry Lindsey Ann Hess Karen Frazier Deena Flinchum Mona DiGiulian Susan Miller

Karen Bingham Tracie Brewster William Gardner

TO OUR HOUSE POLICY COUNCIL

John Getgood Sarah Greene Susan Icove John McEnhill Pat Shelor Jonathan Vandergrift Jack Wall

Vanessa Duncan Morris Fleischer Linda Jilk Bill King Rebecca Rees Brenda Roberts Melanie Smith Cindy Turner Don Waite Christy Brown Fredda Cromer Sandy Hagman Roy Kirkpatrick Jon Low Dick Neves Jerald Robinson Bruce Shepherd Vern Simpson Mike Snyder Donald Williams

Becky Daniels Shanika Dillard Sarah Greene Ashley Hash Larry Lindsey Erica Mendoza Molly O’Dell Rhonda Seltz Tammy Taylor

HEAD START POLICY COUNCIL Paris Altizer

Mary Chamberlain Sean Chamberlain Mindi Christian Cheyenne Dalton Mark DeBusk Nida DeBusk Karrie Delp Rebecca Hosey Michelle Jones Mary Leonard Kari Meador Lori Maupin Serena Ming Rhonda Seltz Desiree Smith Stephanie Smith Randi Webb Gabrielle Pannell Melinda Robinson

RADFORD CITY

Queen Alexander Sarah Carter

GILES COUNTY Judy Carter Don Clark Susan Kidd Terry Mays Corbin Vierling Jill Williams

Leslie Dean Kelly McCoy

BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY Beth Abel

Amy Provencher Robert Simpkins Ann Walker

HEAD START HEALTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE Paris Altizer Maggie Bassett Sylvia Bond Deborah Bryant Karrie Delp David Hudgins

Wallace Huff Steve Jacobs William Jefferies

Lisa Johnson Kari Meador

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New River Community Action Recognizes Scholarship Award Winners

T he New River Community Action Board of Directors presented the annual 2017 George Ducker Memorial Scholarship Award to Madeline Brown of Blacksburg and Zach Ingram of Elliston. Each received a $500 scholarship in recognition of academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and community service. Zach Ingram graduated with honors from Eastern Montgomery High School earning an Advanced Studies Diploma. At EMHS, Zach was a member of the Student Government Association, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and held leadership roles in The Beta Club and Chess Club. He also participated in EMHS’s spring theater production. Zach will attend Radford University and study Biochemistry with a Pre-Health concentration, and minor in Philosophy.

Madeline Brown graduated from Blacksburg High School with honors earning an Advanced Studies Diploma. At BHS, Madeline was a member of the National Honor Society, won awards in debate and

received the AP Scholar Award. Additionally, she was active in community service activities such as organizing food drives and working at the YMCA Thrift Shop. Madeline will attend the College of William and Mary, pursuing a double major in Public Policy and International Relations. The Reverend George Ducker Memorial Scholarship Award is presented annually by New River Community Action in memory of the late Reverend George Ducker, pastor of the Presbyterian Church of Radford, member of the Radford City School Board, and member of the New River Community Action Board of Directors 1986-1992.

NRCA George Ducker Memorial Scholarship Award recipients Zach Ingram and Madeline Brown.

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New River Community Action Recognizes Volunteer of the Year

N ew River Community Action (NRCA) presented their annual Philip Sadler Memorial Community Service Volunteer of the Year Award to Sharon Lowery at the agency’s Board of Directors’ meeting in Radford on May 18, 2017. NRCA recognized Ms. Lowery for her outstanding volunteer service to the Children’s Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP) Giles County Baby & Toddler Shop. Sharon Lowery is the Volunteer Shop Manager at the Giles County Baby & Toddler Shop. She recruits, trains and supervises other volunteers at the shop. Ms. Lowery often stays after closing to clean, organize, or meet clients for after-hours emergency needs. She contributes funds to buy goods for the shop and pays for a storage unit to keep large or out of season items secure and organized. Sharon’s dedication to the shop and its customers goes beyond mere “customer service.” Sharon helps each client feel valued and loved. Her philosophy includes treating everyone with dignity and respect, and she trains her staff to share in this attitude of joyous giving. Sharon’s goal is that everyone who walks in the door feels welcomed.

New River Community Action annually presents the Philip Sadler Memorial Community Service Volunteer of the Year Award in memory of the late Philip M. Sadler, a Pulaski County attorney, community leader and humanitarian. In recognition of exceptional service to the community, NRCA presents the award to an outstanding NRCA volunteer.

John McEnhill, NRCA Board of Directors Chairman, presents the 2017 NRCA Philip Sadler Memorial Community Service Volunteer of the Year Award to Sharon Lowery for her service at the Giles CHIP Baby & Toddler Shop.

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Transforming and Inspiring for over 50 years! Transforming and Inspiring for over 50 years! Transforming and Inspiring for over 50 years! 1,795 volunteers who contributed 34,650 service hours, transformed lives through these innovative programs. Action provided services to 11,977 unduplicated individuals in 2016- 1,795 volunteers who contributed 34,650 se vice hours, transformed lives through these innovative programs. Action provided services to 1,9 7 unduplicated ind viduals in 2016-

New River Communi ty Action provided services to 11,977 unduplicated individuals in 2016- New River Communi ty Action provided services to 11,977 undu li indi i i 016- New River Community Actio provided services to 11,977 unduplicated individuals in 2016-2017.

NRCA staff, with assistance from 1,795 volunteers who contributed 34,650 service hours, transformed lives through these innovative programs. NRCA staff, with assistance from 1,795 volunteers who contributed 34,650 service hours, transformed lives through these innovative programs.

6 | Support Services Eleven AMERICORPS members provided a combined 6,654 service hours. VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) served 963 families who saved $174,400 in tax preparation fees. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE s rved 5,958 individuals in 2,429 families addressing basic needs including shelter. FLOYD BACK PACK PROGRAM served 175 children in 93 families. BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY served 346 individuals in 155 families. Al leviat ing Hunger and Financial Crises EMERGENCY FOOD assisted 4,494 indivi uals i 1,902 families through six food pantries. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE served 5,958 individuals in 2,429 families addressing basic needs including shelter. FLOYD BACK PACK PROGRAM served 175 children in 93 families. BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY served 346 individuals in 155 families. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE served 5,958 individu ls in 2,429 famili s ad ressing basic needs including shelter. FLOYD BACK PACK PROGRAM served 175 children in 93 families. BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY served 346 individuals in 1 5 families. Support Services Fourteen AMERICORPS members provided a combined 6,654 service hours. VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX MERGENCY A SISTANCE s rved ,958 individuals n 2,429 families addressing basic needs including shelter. FLOYD BACK PACK PROGRAM s rved 175 childre in 93 families. BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY s rved 346 individuals in 155 families. Su port Ser ices Fourteen AMERICORPS embers provided a combined 6,654 service hours. VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX Alleviating Hunger and Financial Crisis EMERGENCY FOOD assisted 4,494 individu- als in 1,902 families through six food pantries. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE served 5,958 individuals in 2,429 families addressing basic needs including shelter. FLOYD BACKPACK PROGRAM served 175 children in 93 families. BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY served 346 individuals in 155 families. Al leviat ing Hunger and Financial Crises EMERGENCY FOOD assisted 4,494 individuals in 1,902 families through six food pantries. Al leviat ing Hunger and Financial Crises EMERGENCY FOOD assisted 4,494 individuals in 1,902 families through six food pantries. Al leviat ing Hunger and Financial Crises MERGENCY FOOD a sisted 4, 94 individuals in 1,902 families through six food pantries. Support Services ASSISTANCE (VITA) served 963 families who saved $174,400 in tax preparation fees. A SISTANCE (VITA) s rved 963 families who saved $174,400 in tax reparation fees.

Early Chi ldhood Educat ion & Fami ly Services HEAD START provided Early Chi ldhood Educat ion & Fami ly Services HEAD START provi ed

Ex-Offender Services VIRGINIA CARES program provided 45 pre-releases and 173 newly released ex-offenders with assistance and support to promote successful transition from prison or jail to the community. PROGRAMs assisted 94 families to obtain or maintain permanent housing. TO OUR HOUSE winter shelte r served 40 homeless men providing a total of 1,451 bed- nights and 4,353 meals. Housing Access HOUSING COUNSELING pr vided 82 families with knowledge to improve their housing and financial situations. HOMELESS and HOUSING PROGRAMs assisted 94 families to obtain or maintain permanent housing. TO OUR HOUSE winter shelte r served 40 homeless men providing a total of 1,451 bed- nights and 4,353 meals. Housing Access HOUSING COUNSELING provided 82 families with knowledge to improve their housing and financial situations.. HOMELESS and HOUSING PRO RAMs assisted 94 families to obtain or maintain permanent housing. TO OUR HOUSE winter shelter served 40 homeless men providing a total of 1,451 bed- nights and 4,353 meals. Housing Access HOUSING COUNSELING provided 82 families with knowledge to improve their housing and financial situations. H MELESS and HOUSING PROGRAMs assisted 94 families to obtain or maintain permanent housing. TO OUR HOUSE winter shelte r served 40 homeless men providing a total of 1,451 bed- nig ts and 4, 53 meals. Ex-Of fender Services VIRGINIA CARES program provided 45 pre-releases and 173 newly released ex-offenders with assistance and support to promote successful transition from prison or jail to the Housing Access HOUSING COUNSELING provi ed 82 families with knowledge to improve their housing and fi ancial situations. HOMELESS and HOUSING PROGRAM a sisted 94 families to obtain or maintain perma ent housing. T OUR HOUSE winter sh lte r s rved 40 homeless men providing a total of 1,451 bed- nights and 4, 53 meals. Ex-Of fender Services VIRGINI CARES program provided 45 p -releases and 173 newly rel as d ex-offenders with a sistance and support to pr mote successful transition from pris n or jail o the Housing Access HOUSING COUNSELING provided 82 families with knowledge to improve their housing and financial situations. HOMELESS and HOUSING Ex-Of fender Services

www.newrivercommunityaction.org Two-Generat ion Career and Chi ld Two-Generation Career and Child Development Career Mentors enrolled 47 participants in SWIFTStart offering skill development and access to childcare. IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP (CHIP) provided 269 children (ages 0-6) in 158 families with improved health care, parent education and case management. comprehensive education, nutrition, health, parent involvement and social services to 354 pre-school children. CHILDREN’S HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP (CHIP) provided 269 children (ages 0-6) in 158 families with improved health care, parent education and case management. IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP (CHIP) provided 269 children (ages 0-6) i 158 families with improved h alth care, p r nt education and case management. Two-Generat ion Career and Chi ld Development IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP (C IP) provided 269 children (ages 0-6) in 158 families with improved he lth care, parent education and ase m nag ment. Two-Generat ion Career and Chi ld Development Career Mentors enrolled 47 participants in SWIFTS art offering skill d velopment and access to childcare. Early Childhood Education and Family Services HEAD START provided comprehensive education, nutrition, health, parent involvement and social services to 354 pre-school children. CHILDREN’S HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP (CHIP) provided 269 children (ages 0-6) in 158 families with improved health care, parent education and case management. Early Chi ldhood Educat ion & Fami ly Services HEAD START provided comprehensive education, nutrition, health, parent involvem nt nd soci l servic s to 354 pre-school children. CHILDREN’S HEALTH Early Chi ldhood Educat ion & Fami ly Services HEAD START provided comprehensive education, nutrition, health, parent involvement and social ser ices t 354 pre-school chil ren. CHILDREN’S HEALTH comprehensive education, nutrition, healt , parent in olv ment and social services to 354 pre-school children. CHILDREN’S HEALTH Career Mentors enrolled 47 participants in SWIFTStart offering skill development and access to childcare.

2016-2017 Financial Report

2016-2017 FINANCIAL REPORT 2016-2017 Financial Report Agency Revenues Agency Expenses Grants $5,287,188 Head Start Agency Revenues Agency Expenses Grants $5,287,188 H ad Start In-Kind Donations $876 277 Administrative

$3,392,802 $798,999 $71 ,159 $425,898 $383,391 $284,514 $123,531

$3,392,802 $798,999 $719,159 $425,898 $383,391 $284,514 $123,531

In-Kind Donations Contr butions

$876,277 $194,041 $53,673 $57,395 $18,954 $6,487,528 194,041 $53,673 7,395 18,954 $6,487,528

Administrative Children's Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP) Community Services Block Gr nt (CSBG) Children's Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP) Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Ho eless and Housing Programs

Contributions Other Funding United Way Fundraising Total Revenue Other Fundi g Unit d Way Fundraising Total Revenue

Homeless and Housing Programs Emergency Assistance Program E ergency Assistance Program AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps Virginia CARES Virginia CARES SwiftStart SwiftStart To Our House Other Programs Total Expenses To Our House Other Programs Total Expenses

$93,840 $45,698 $43,449 $35,425 $21,340

$93,840 $45,698 $43,449 $35,425 $21,340

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

$6,368,046

$6,368,046

VITA .75%

VA CARES 1.5%

Other Programs .5% To Our House .5% Other Programs .5%

SwiMStart 1%

Emergency Assistance 4.5% Emergency Assistance 4.5%

SwiQStart 1%

VA CARES 1.5%

VITA .75%

AmeriCorps 2% AmeriCorps 2%

To Our House .5%

Homeless/Housing [PERCENTAGE] Homeless/Housing 6%

Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) 6.75% Co unit Gra t ( 6.

Head Start 53%

Head Start 53%

CHIP [PERCENTAGE] CHIP 11%

Administra1ve 12.5% Administra1ve 12.5%

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AMERICORPS PROGRAM The NRCA AmeriCorps Prgram members provided 6,654 hours of service

AmeriCorps is a federal program that networks with non-profit organizations, public agencies, and faith-based groups. Initiated through the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, the program enrolls over 80,000 individuals nationwide each year. AmeriCorps State and National Programs engage thousands of Americans in intensive service, addressing unmet community needs in areas of education, public safety, health, and the environment. AmeriCorps members are our community heroes! The NRCA AmeriCorps program enrolled eleven members during the 2016-17 service year. Members completed a total of 6,654 hours in the following programs: To Our House thermal homeless shelter, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA), Homeless and Housing Programs, and Emergency Assistance Programs. Service activities included financial literacy sessions, renter education workshops, free tax preparation, and provision of overnight shelter and meals for homeless men. 

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: Mahatma Gandhi once said, “ The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others .” That is what our outstanding group of AmeriCorps members has accomplished this year.

Three members supported the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program both preparing and reviewing taxes. They became trained at the advanced level and assisted over 900 New River Valley residents to access over $1,000,000 in tax refunds. These members received thanks for their service (providing free tax return assistance) from many filers, as they could not afford to pay someone for this service. In addition to being involved in the VITA program, members participated in monthly service projects. For one such project, our members packaged over 10,000 meals (along with other community volunteers) to send overseas. Other projects, such as the 9/11 Cleanup Day at Claytor Lake, organizing the Pulaski Baby Store and working in the Plenty! Community Garden, allowed AmeriCorps members to give directly back to their communities.

AmeriCorps members and Coordinator working in the Plenty! garden in Floyd County. L to R: Kam Johnson, Cassie Linkous, Coordinator Laura Murphy, Hayleigh Bostic.

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CHILDREN’S HEALTH IMPROVEMENT PARTNERSHIP OF NRV (CHIP) CHIP of NRV provided 158 families (269 children) with services including access to health care, case management, and partent education. The NRCA Children’s Health Improvement Partnership of the New River Valley (CHIP of NRV) partners with families to create a nurturing home environment and promote the health and well-being of children in our community. CHIP provides services to families

with children age birth through six. The program model includes accessing medical and dental homes, promoting successful parenting through use of the nationally recognized evidence-based Parents as Teachers curriculum, and ensuring parents understand and follow physician recommendations. CHIP staff members also help families set and attain health and self-sufficiency goals, assist with transportation, conduct developmental screenings, and help families access other community-based services to help meet the multifaceted needs of families. All services emphasize prevention, early intervention, school readiness and family empowerment. CHIP links families with medical and dental homes where children receive consistent and comprehensive care in familiar settings. Enrolled families receive regular home visits from CHIP Nurses who provide health education, medical case management, dental varnishes, and early screening for developmental delays. The CHIP Nurse supports the child’s physician ensuring access to preventative health care and other necessary medical services.

A vital component of the CHIP program is the Parents as Teachers (PAT) parent education curriculum. All CHIP Family Educators are nationally-certified trainers. PAT drives home the message that parents are their children’s first and best teachers. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT - CHIP Baby & Toddler Shops: Parenting can be hard work, and sometimes it is a struggle to make ends meet. The CHIP Baby and Toddler Shops help by providing needed infant and toddler items at no charge. Parents receive necessary items such as clothing, diapers, shoes, and coats to help meet the needs of their children. CHIP Baby and Toddler Shops expanded throughout the New River Valley in recent years. Unfortunately, the program coordination funding ended; however, NRCA committed to continuing the community Shops. CHIP assumed responsibility for Shop operations in Floyd and Giles Counties, while local volunteer groups offered to sponsor the Shops in Montgomery and Pulaski Counties. Community donations and volunteer support entirely fund the operations. During the 2016-17 year, the Giles Baby Shop received a $2000 grant from the Carilion Clinic.

Trained volunteers that care about families are the heart and soul of the CHIP Baby and Toddler Shops . Volunteers often stay after closing to clean, organize, or meet clients for after-hours emergency needs. CHIP parents also want to give back to the community. Many use the clothing, wash, and return items for other families. While parents do not need to be part of CHIP to access the Shops, volunteers encourage home visiting as a helpful resource. When a family visits a CHIP Floyd or Giles Shop for the first time, the parent is invited to complete a short information sheet so that a CHIP staff member can make contact later to provide information about CHIP home visiting and other available resources in the community. Home visiting is a powerful tool that promotes healthy families and supports parents in their efforts to become self-sufficient. More than 200 families benefited from the Shops in the calendar year 2016.

Shop volunteer Linda Dressler (left), with Shop customers, Rachel and Ethel McAllister (middle). Appreciation goes to Stephanie Spencer (right) with Giles Carilion Hospital for Baby Shop donations in 2016.

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HEAD START PROGRAM Head Start provided 354 children and their families with comprehensive developmental services, benefiting the entire family unit.

Head Start provides eligible pre-school children with the tools necessary for creating and maintaining a lifelong learning foundation for school and success in life. Head Start promotes school readiness by offering children and families supportive education in language and literacy skills, science and math, cognition and general knowledge, physical development and health, and social and emotional development. Head Start emphasizes the role of the parent as their child’s first and most important teacher. Program staff members build relationships with parents while engaging them to be advocates for their children and family. Comprehensive services to enrolled families also include social, health, nutrition, and support in goal development and implementation. Services are designed to be responsive to each child and family’s ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: During the 2016-2017 program year, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services made the first all-inclusive revision and complete reorganization of the Head Start Performance Standards since 1975. Provisions of this final rule were effective November 7, 2016. These changes to the Performance Standards will further enable New River Community Action Head Start to support high-quality health, education, nutritional, and social services and to strengthen the outcomes of the children and families served. The New River Community Action Head Start Early Learning Center located at New River Community College (NRCC) opened its doors during the fall semester of 2016. Children of parents from throughout the New River Valley who were enrolled at NRCC and met Head Start eligibility criteria received placement priority. Eleven of the eighteen children enrolled at the Head Start Early Learning Center had parents who were NRCC students.

Giles Breakfast Lions’ Club Community Garden

New River Community Action Head Start joined efforts with Radford City Public Schools to serve the needs of children and families in the City of Radford. A braided Virginia Preschool Initiative/Head Start classroom located at McHarg Elementary provided quality preschool services to nine Head Start children and nine VPI children. The partnership was so successful that both NRCA Head Start and Radford City Public Schools have agreed to expand services by adding another braided classroom at McHarg for the 2017-2018 program year. New River Community Action Head Start partnered with the Giles Breakfast Lions’ Club to educate Narrows and Pearisburg Head Start children and parents about the benefits of healthy foods and fitness. Lion Charlie Herbert brought the Pearisburg community garden into the Head Start classrooms. Club members taught children about healthy food choices and gave them the opportunity to grow plants from seed to be transplanted to the community garden. Head Start families collected the harvest from the garden as the plants grew to full maturity. Also, monthly throughout the 2016-2017 program year, Giles Breakfast Lions’ Club members provided Yoga classes to the Head Start children in Narrows and Pearisburg. Volunteers taught children and staff how to breathe calmly, how to quiet the mind, about balance, and how to take care of their bodies. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Association for the Education of Young Children recommend that children should participate in activities that support the development of the whole child. Thanks to the Lions’ volunteers, Head Start children in Giles County were provided a fun and playful way to explore Yoga in their classrooms. Giles Breakfast Lions’ Club volunteers provided Yoga classes Braided Virginia Preschool Initiative/Head Start classroom located at McHarg Elementary

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HOMELESS AND HOUSING PROGRAMS Renter Education prepared 97 households for stable housing.

NRCA nearly doubled the number of clients attending Renter Education workshops from 50 households in the program year 2015-2016 to 97 in 2016-2017. Considerable attention was provided to NRCA Emergency Assistance (EA) Program utility clients in Giles, Floyd, and Radford accessing Renter Education workshops as a condition of EA participation. Additionally, Homeless and Housing Programs staff focused on NRCA To Our House thermal shelter clients, encouraging the homeless men to attend morning sessions after staying at the shelter to assist them with permanent housing placement.

PREVENTION AND RAPID REHOUSING Prevention and Rapid Rehousing programs provided $212,070 in financial assistance to 94 households. NRCA uses a new curriculum developed by the Virginia Housing Development Authority for the Renter Education workshops. Topics include credit, housing search, application process, understanding lease agreements, security deposits, rights and responsibilities of the tenant and landlord, maintenance and repairs, and terminating a lease including the eviction process. The new curriculum also includes a discussion on fair housing and utility energy savings tips. NRCA’s Homeless Prevention and Rapid Rehousing programs assisted 94 households (259 individuals) either at-risk of homelessness or homeless. The funding helped those families with rent and utility deposits, rent arrears, housing application fees, moving costs, and temporary rental and utility support to help households obtain or maintain stable and safe housing.

HOUSING COUNSELING HUD-Certified Housing Counselors assisted 82 households. NRCA provided Housing Counseling to 82 households (198 individuals) during 2016-2017. Housing Counseling included rental rights and responsibilities, homelessness assistance, post-purchase guidance, foreclosure prevention, and financial literacy. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: In early November 2016, NRCA’s Homeless and Housing Programs assisted a local single mother “Susan,” and her three children in danger of becoming homeless. By mid-November, the NRCA Homeless Prevention Housing Counselor successfully found an affordable trailer for Susan and her children, and they moved in two days

NRCA Housing Counselors and Community Services Director at 2016 Virginia Governor’s Housing Conference: (left to right): Sarah Gray, Lisa Yost, Melissa Poindexter, Glenda Vest, NRCA Community Services Director, Leroy Robinson, Gabe Martin, Donna Thompson and James Dye

after the inspection. NRCA assisted with the deposit, and first month’s rent to secure a place the family could call their own. In December, Susan happily reported that she had already saved enough money for the next month’s rent. She was thankful to NRCA for providing the help and support to her family.

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VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE (VITA) Volunteers served 963 families, saving filers over $174,000 in tax preparation fees.

New River Community Action was the recipient of a $10,925 grant from the Virginia Community Action Partnership , allowing for the operation of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program at sites in Radford City and Floyd, Montgomery and Pulaski Counties. VITA provides free tax return preparation to low-moderate income individuals. From January to May 2017, community volunteers contributed almost 2,247 hours and assisted 914 taxpayers. The volunteers helped their clients receive $1,080,938 in tax refunds, including $378,780 in federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) dollars. The EITC is the nation’s largest federal anti-poverty program, serving working families who are most at-risk during hard economic times. The average adjusted gross income for households served by VITA was $21,488. NRCA’s free services saved low-moderate income taxpayers $174,400 in tax return preparation fees, based on an average fee of $200 per tax-filer. An additional 53 families in our service area received free income tax return preparation by taking advantage of the VITA-sponsored myfreetaxes website. VOLUNTEER INCOME TA Volunteers served 963 fa fees.

New River Community Actio Community Action Partnersh Assistance (VITA) program a Counties. VITA provides fre January to May 2017, comm taxpayers. The volunteers he $378,780 in federal Earned I federal anti-poverty program, economic times. The average $21,488. NRCA’s free servic preparation fees, based on an service area received free inc sponsored myfreetaxes websit PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT In 2017 the VITA program g Senior Center, Newbern Com for both Radford City and Pu Commissioner of the Revenu of our clients who are in need Federal Credit Union. Over

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: In 2017 the VITA program gained five new sites: Pulaski County Public Library, Pulaski County Senior Center, Newbern Community Christian Church and the Commissioners of the Revenue for both Radford City and Pulaski County. Over 250 returns came from these new sites, and the Commissioner of the Revenue in Radford has pledged to offer VITA services year-round to any of our clients who are in need. We also enjoyed another successful partnership with First NRV Federal Credit Union. Over 300 returns were generated from this site alone.

2017 VITA volunteers at their end-of-season dinner held at Al’s on First. 1 st Row L to R: Richard Theobald, Ron Angert, Patriciia Huff, Cathy Flinchum, Trina Rupe, Cindy Olinger, Peggy Hopkins 2 nd Row L to R: Tammy Bentley, Hayleigh Bostic 3 rd Row L to R: VITA program Coordinator, Laura Murphy, Donna Gray, Lee Hinkle

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During its seventh season of operation, 1,024 volunteers from 50 faith-based organizations, businesses and community groups provided 1,451 bed-nights of winter shelter and 4,353 meals for 40 homeless men. While sheltered at To Our House, 10 guests obtained a source of income, and 21 guests moved into permanent housing.

Homelessness looks very different in the New River Valley than in urban areas. The homeless in rural areas might live in their cars, in the woods or caves. Individuals in our area who find themselves without housing include ex-offenders, the disabled, those working at low-paying jobs, and those experiencing long-term unemployment. Long waiting lists for lim- ited subsidized housing exacerbate the problem. NRCA’s To Our House (TOH) program works in partnership with the local faith community to shelter homeless single men during the winter months. Churches offer their fellowship halls for one or two weeks as night shelters. Host and support church volunteers transport the homeless men (guests), cook and serve meals, offer fellowship, and sleep at the shelter as church liaisons. To Our House AmeriCorps members and stipend volunteers are on site to support the guests and volun- teers. New River Community Action offers a variety of support services to the guests, including NRCA Virginia CARES for ex-offenders. NRCA also links the To Our House guests with the NRCA Homeless and Housing Programs to obtain stable housing.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: After losing his job, apartment and pos- sessions following a drug possession charge, Jody Blankenship sought help from To Our House . As a guest, Blankenship was transported each night during the winter to a warm church set up with blanketed cots and provid- ed a hot meal by caring volunteers. Staff and volunteers offered informa- tion on available housing and employment resources. “I am completely clean now. TOH connected me with Virginia CARES to get an ID, a job, and information to get a place of my own,” said Blanken- ship while volunteering at Blacksburg Baptist Church to serve dinner to To Our House guests. To Our House guests are asked to perform two hours of community service for every 30 nights of shelter. “I did my two hours and never stopped,” said Blankenship, who volunteered full-time last winter until he secured employ- ment. He continues to volunteer at To Our House serving meals, at the

Formerly homeless, Jody Blankenship (left) volunteers for To Our House to prepare a sandwich for guest Joseph Kingrea.

Montgomery County Emergency Assistance Program (MCEAP) food pantry organizing donations, and at the NRCA Mont- gomery Area Office assisting with landscaping and computers. “This is my way of giving back,” said Blankenship. “This is not something I would have done in the past, but being here and being sober has changed my view. Seeing all the people who need help and being able to help them has made a big difference in my life.  After I started volunteering, everything started to fall into place.”  Blankenship credits the TOH supportive community with helping him move forward. “ To Our House and NRCA have been like family to me. I would not do anything to let them down.  These are great people. They have been there for me, they have really helped me.”

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NRCA assisted 8,205 unduplicated individuals in 3,531 families alleviating their hunger and financial crises. EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

NRCA’s Emergency Assistance Programs serve low-income families who are experiencing financial crises. Temporary assistance may include vouchers for utility payments, rent, medications, clothing, or gasoline for transportation to a job or medical appointment. With offices located in each of the five jurisdictions in the New River Valley, NRCA staff can help clients access the American Electric Power Neighbor-to-Neighbor and Atmos Energy utility programs. Staff and volunteers also operate six food pantries available for clients’ emergencies. Information and referrals help program participants obtain needed support from both inside and outside the NRCA network. During 2016-17, emergency food was distributed to 4,494 individuals in 1,902 families. NRCA provided temporary financial assistance through vendor vouchers to 5,958 individuals in 2,429 families. The NRCA Emergency Assistance Programs are supported primarily through local contributions. The United Way, foundations, faith-based organizations, civic groups, businesses, and individuals provide funds to operate the programs in each locality. Through collaboration with partner agencies and churches, duplication of services is avoided. FLOYD COUNTY BACKPACK PROGRAM During the 2016-17 school year, NRCA’s Floyd County BackPack Program provided 175 lower-income students in 93 families with supplemental food on the weekends. Child-friendly and easily consumed food is distributed weekly during the school year through Floyd County schools. Funding for the program is provided by private donors, foundations, and the Empty Bowls fundraising event. BLACKSBURG INTERFAITH FOOD PANTRY

The Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry is a joint ministry of over twenty-five Blacksburg churches of various denominations; additionally, individuals and organizations provide support. Operated by over 200 dedicated volunteers, the Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry offers food once a month to low-income residents or transients in Blacksburg and McCoy experiencing financial crises. During the program year 2016-17, 155 unduplicated families consisting of 346 unduplicated individuals received food. PROGRAM HIGHLIGHT: When an individual in need rang the bell at the NRCA Radford Emergency Assistance Program office, Leroy Robinson was there to offer a helping hand. Robinson, NRCA Community Service Worker, provided services to low-income individuals in crisis who needed help with paying bills as well as access to the pantry for food and other household products.

NRCA Community Service Worker, Leroy Robinson and James Hamlin

James Hamlin, a local veteran in the community, was in dire need of assistance after his water heater fell through the floor of his home. His daughter reached out to New River Community Action for help. NRCA Emergency Assistance Program funds, along with donations from the Radford/Fairlawn Ministerial Association, allowed volunteer Mike Dicken, handyman in a local home repair ministry, to purchase materials needed to fix Mr. Hamlin’s home. Mr. Dicken provided the labor for free, replacing a 30-gallon electric water heater, the main water isolation valve, and the damaged floor.

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VIRGINIA CARES (Community Action Re-Entry System)

NRCA’s Virginia CARES program provided 45 pre-releases and 173 newly released ex- offenders with assistance and support to promote successful transition from prison or jail to the community. A sub-contractor of Virginia CARES, Inc. , NRCA’s Virginia CARES program is a community- based effort to assist individuals coming out of jail or prison. Services include emergency aid (food, clothing, shelter, and transportation), job readiness instruction, employment search, life- skills education and support groups. Through linkages with community resources, Virginia CARES provides opportunities for ex-offenders to become self-reliant, law-abiding and taxpaying members of society. The program reduces recidivism by helping formerly-incarcerated individuals obtain the skills and support they need to reintegrate into their home communities.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS: During 2016-2017, Virginia CARES staff and volunteers de- veloped the FAST (Facilitating A Successful Transition) project in the Montgomery County Jail. Employees and volunteers visited the jail monthly and met with offenders who were within six months of being released. These sessions introduced the offenders to the Virginia CARES pro- gram staff and identified the specific needs each would likely experience upon release. Staff and volunteers developed an individualized case management plan for each offender and provided information on services and employment opportunities to access after release. Virginia CARES has recently expanded pre-release activities to include providing services in the New River Valley Regional Jail once a week for 12-week periods. Staff along with volunteers are facilitating weekly groups that address various topics as requested by the offenders including job readiness, parenting, and budgeting. Virginia CARES provides more intensive services for those most at-risk of returning to prison or jail. Gary V. came to the Virginia CARES program via a referral from NRCA’s To Our House men’s shelter. Gary was homeless and feeling hopeless. The Virginia CARES Employment Specialist, Nikki Powell, assisted Gary in preparing for his job search by offering job readiness classes and help to find employment opportunities. Once Gary had completed the job readiness portion of his program, Virginia CARES staff arranged an interview with one of the program’s local employers. Gary did a fantastic job in his interview and received a job offer on the spot. He started working in March 2017 and soon after obtained permanent housing. Gary has continued to set new goals for himself, including completion of his GED. Shannon Lowery, NRCA Virginia CARES Case Manager, prepares for a FAST (Facilitating A Successful Transition) presentation.

“After finding myself homeless and feeling overwhelmed, the Virginia CARES program helped me find my way. At my age, I felt hopeless and wondered if I would ever be able to get my life on track. The staff provided me with the support, skills, and encouragement I needed to achieve my goals.” - Gary V.

Gary V., with NRCA Virginia CARES Employment Specialist, Nikki Powell.

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Career Mentors enrolled forty-seven participants in SWIFTStart offering skill development and access to childcare. SWIFTStart is a grant awarded to the Roanoke and New River Valleys by the Department of Labor. New River Community Action and Total Action for Progress (TAP) have partnered to target a large service area, positively impacting a sizeable population. Using career pathway development with short-term and credential-focused training, SWIFTStart helps participants qualify for employment in the specific workforce fields of Advanced Manufacturing, Health Care, and Information Technology. Also, SWIFTStart provides participants with tools to reduce barriers that might prevent them from obtaining higher wages, including enhancing participants’ ability to select and evaluate child care providers. Career Mentors provide one-on-one and group career coaching, job placement assistance, and on-going support critical to program success. In January 2017, SWIFTStart began serving Floyd, Giles, Montgomery and Pulaski Counties, and Radford City. One full- time and one part-time Career Mentors cover all five jurisdictions. SWIFTStart collaborates with programs within New River Community Action, as well as other programs in the service area. NRCA Head Start and TAP Early Head Start parents receive priority in the referral process. Other SWIFTStart referral sources include the NRCA Children’s Health Improvement Partnership (CHIP), Department of Social Services, Women’s Resource Center, Workforce Development, Goodwill, Good Care, Health Department, and local churches. Referral sources are continually increasing due to efforts made by Career Mentors to collaborate and network with other local programs. The effective partnerships utilize one another’s expertise to decrease participants’ barriers without overlapping services. From January to June 2017, the NRCA SWIFTStart Career Mentors assisted forty-seven participants. Of these forty-seven, fourteen were Head Start parents, and another twelve were future Head Start parent enrollees. Twenty-one participants completed career assessments, CareerScope and Adult Basic Education testing. Sixteen participants completed three 18-hour SWIFTStart Orientations. By June 2017, seven participants entered healthcare training programs, with two completing their training in May/June 2017.

SWIFTStart offered hope to participants who, before enrollment, were unable to overcome barriers to economic self-sufficiency. Together Career Mentors and participants developed new ideas to keep obstacles from becoming permanent roadblocks to success. Many challenges were addressed successfully due to the consistency and determination of staff and program enrollees.

Reuben Miller (center), an ex Old Order Amish and now a middle school math teacher, shared his personal story of overcoming extreme barriers when he left the Old Order Church with only an eighth-grade education. One SWIFTStart participant stated, “Wow! If he can do it, I can, too.”

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NRCA expresses appreciation to individuals, institutions, and organizations for their financial support! Monetary support $100 or more 2016-2017 Funding Sources

Dehoff, David and Cooke, Circe Derenthal, Jerome and Judith Deyerle, Dolly and Gilbert, Luann Dietrich, Andrea and Gallagher, Daniel Disciples Womens Ministry

Brown, John and Mary Jean Brugh, Max Buikema, Arthur Burch, Mary and Loy Caldwell, William Camden, Sue and Daniel Carilion Clinic

Abundant Dawn Community Church Agnew, Teresa and Joe Aiken, William Amelia’s Pizzeria & Restaurant Angert, Ann and Ron Anonymous APCO Employee Benevolent Association Armentrout, Mark and Karen Bank of America Charitable Foundation Bauers Wall Family Foundation Bauers, Kamala Beams, Thais Belden, Lisa Belmont Christian Church Belspring United Methodist Church Bennett, Katie Blacksburg Christian Church Blacksburg Community Development Block Grant Blacksburg Friends Meeting Blacksburg Master Chorale Blacksburg Presbyterian Church Blacksburg Presbyterian Women of the Church Blacksburg Realty, LLC Blacksburg United Methodist Church Women Blakely, Mary Bollo’s Cafe and Bakery Downtown Bos, Ronald Boyd, Michael and Torgersen, Karen

Dolloff, Charles Drengwitz, Otto Due South BBQ LLC Dunlap, James Eanes, Allyn and Jasper

Carilion Giles Community Hospital Auxiliary Carter and Kay Craigie Family Foundation Celanese Foundation Cellar Restaurant Chamowitz, Lynda Check Ruritan Club CHIP of Virginia Christ Episcopal Church Christian Church Disciples of Christ Virginia District II Christiansburg Presbyterian Church Church World Service, Inc. Cliff, Eugene and Joan Cobb, James Coldwell Banker Townside Realtors Colliver, Ethan and Lauren Community Christian Church Community Christian Church Mission Fund Community Services Block Grant Constellation Brands Consumer Connection Services Cooke, Michael and Mary Corl, Benjamin and Burger, Julia Corporation for National and Community Service Countryside Custom Homes Cox Charitable Trust DaVita

Edgewood United Methodist Church Eggleston United Methodist Church

Elson, Donald and Amy Fairlawn Baptist Church Fairlawn Church of God Fairlawn Presbyterian Church

Fairlawn Presbyterian Church Women Fairlawn Presbyterian Womens Circle #2 Finnegan, Steve First Baptist Church First Church of God First United Methodist Church Floyd Baptist Church Floyd County Floyd County Angels Ministries, Inc

Fortier, Joseph and Michelle Foster, Sherry and Rodger French, Janet and Paul Gabriele, Matthew Gaines, Linda and Paul Gallagher, Debra Galligan, Paula and Pack, Jennifer Gardner, Thomas and Laura

Brickhouse, Paul and Debra Brinberg, Marta and David Brouwer, Glenda and Charles Brown, Howe and Margaret

Garnett-Deakin, Phyllis Gay, Keith and Suzanne

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