Community Action Network Celebrates 56 years of Service, 48 years in Allegany County

Belmont, NY– 2020 marks the 56th year since the Community Action Network was established to help American families and communities overcome obstacles to poverty. Over 1000 agencies across the country are working every day to create opportunities and transform the lives of their neighbors making communities stronger and helping families across the US thrive. This year, ACCORD Corporation a proud member of the Community Action Network, will also commemorate 48 years of helping families throughout Allegany County.

“Each May, during Community Action Month, we reflect on the impact ACCORD Corporation and our network has had on families,” said Lesley Gooch-Christman of ACCORD. “Last year alone, we served over 4,200 individuals in Allegany County and over 15 million across the country with immediately needed services such as shelter and food, and also long-term solutions like education and job placement.”

Community Action Agencies serve 99% of American counties with life-changing services to help families achieve financial stability. All agencies are locally controlled and represented by the private, public, and low-income sectors of the community. “We are proud of our communities’ participation in the development and oversight of our programs,” said Gooch-Christman. “Their engagement helps us to be more effective in our approach by determining what Allegany County needs. We came together as a community to face the huge challenges of the COVID-19 epidemic and were reminded daily of the unparalleled way that Allegany County comes together in time of need. We are proud to be Allegany County’s Community Action Agency and commit to being here for our most vulnerable community members and small businesses in the months ahead.

ACCORD Corporation is a member of the National Community Action Partnership and the Community Action Network, which was born out of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964.

ACCORD Corporation’s mission is, “As a Community Action Agency, we believe in the strength, dignity, and potential of all people. We offer access to opportunities, resources, and services to strengthen individuals, families and communities. We are committed to improving the community's response to rural poverty and giving a voice to the unheard. For more information, please visit our website at www.accordcorp.org.