Community Action Services and Food Bank manages the Circles program, a structured initiative aimed at empowering individuals and families to overcome systemic barriers and achieve long-term financial stability. The program utilizes weekly evening meetings, including community dinners and children's programming, to help participants reach at least 200% of the Federal Poverty Guideline.
Pathways to Financial Stability
The program's methodology focuses on a long-term commitment to personal and economic growth. Participants, referred to as Circle Leaders, begin their journey by completing a 12-week training course. This initial curriculum covers essential life skills, including budgeting, SMART goal setting, and various other developmental tools designed to help them navigate the transition toward stability.
Following the initial training, Circle Leaders continue to attend weekly meetings for a minimum of 18 months. During this period, they receive ongoing support from a dedicated network of Coaches, Allies, and Peers to help them execute their individualized plans. The ultimate objective is for leaders to increase their income, decrease personal debt, and successfully transition off public assistance.
The Role of Community Allies
A central component of the Circles model is the role of the Ally, which consists of middle-class community volunteers who serve as intentional friends to Circle Leaders. Rather than providing direct financial handouts, Allies offer encouragement, acceptance, and access to their professional skills and personal networks.
To prepare for this responsibility, Allies undergo two specific training sessions: Bridges Out of Poverty Training and Ally Training, totaling five hours of instruction. Once matched with a Circle Leader, Allies meet regularly to address problems, work toward shared goals, and celebrate the progress made by the participants.
Volunteer Commitments and Support
The commitment for volunteers is structured to ensure the development of deep, trusting relationships. Allies are required to commit to a minimum of four months of service, though many volunteers remain with the program much longer. During these weekly evening meetings, which typically last between two and three hours, the organization provides dinner and children's programming for both the Allies and their families.
This support system is designed to foster a sense of belonging. As noted by the program overview, the influence of a consistent friend can provide a foundation for success that lasts a lifetime, helping participants navigate complex challenges such as the 'benefits cliff.'
Program Structure and Staffing
The program operates through various specialized branches to address different geographic and demographic needs. These include Circles Utah Valley, Circles Heber Valley, and Circles Youth Development. The staff overseeing these efforts includes Cody Martensen as the Circles Program Coordinator, Kira Ward as the Circles Utah Valley Coach, and Patricia Huratado serving as the Circles Spanish Coach.
Additional specialized support is provided by Aubrie Bohman Pettit, the Circles Youth Coach, along with Chloe Kelson as a Program Assistant and Tate Hoffman as a Youth Assistant. Lizzie Shumway also serves as a coach for the Heber Valley branch.
Community Impact and Outcomes
Success stories from the community highlight the tangible impact of the program's resources. One participant reported using the Department of Workforce Services to fund a three-week phlebotomy certification program, noting that the assistance allowed them to pursue professional training while managing childcare through the program's offerings.
Other participants have credited the program with providing the tools necessary for modern job searching, such as learning to write resumes and cover letters and utilizing platforms like Indeed. One former participant shared that the support from Allies provided the confidence needed to transition from working three part-time jobs into a stable, long-term career, moving their family from a state of mere survival to active future planning.
Mission and Long-term Vision
The mission of Circles is rooted in the belief that collaboration and connection can uplift lives and foster economic resilience. By working with community leaders and dedicated volunteers, the program strives to create lasting change within the Utah Valley and Heber Valley regions.
