Circles is a program that helps low-income individuals and families increase their income, achieve their goals, and become financially stable. We want you to be a LEADER in our community. You will receive training on finances, employment, health, and communication skills. But what really makes Circles different are the relationships you will form. We match you with two middle or upper income volunteers who are there to support you in your journey. Achieving your goals and moving from surviving to thriving is easier when you have a circle of support.
GET INVOLVED
BECOME A CIRCLE LEADER
LEARNING TOGETHER
You, as a participant, are called a Circle Leader. You will be matched with volunteers who will be your Allies. Prior to becoming a Circle Leader, you will go through training to equip you to be a successful Circle Leader. You will be setting your own goals, and your Allies will be there to listen, ask questions, and offer support. You and your Allies will learn from each other as you accomplish your goals. Weekly meetings are on Wednesdays from 6-8PM in Fayetteville and include a dinner and childcare.
Circles will help you…
- Practice budgeting and financial skills
- Share your story and use your gifts and skills
- Improve communication and time management
- Expand your network and connections
- Take an active role in improving your community
- Set goals, make progress, and achieve results
Ready to take the first step? Apply to become a Circle Leader!
”I never thought about future goals. My mindset was to make it through the day. I grew up in poverty, and my parents grew up in poverty... Now I have goals for myself and my family. This program has absolutely changed my outlook on life, and it has changed my children’s future.
Amber S.Circle Leader
BECOME A CIRCLE ALLY
A person who supports a Circle Leader’s commitment to climb out of poverty and achieve his or her goals.
COMING ALONGSIDE
Your job as an Ally is to come alongside a Circle Leader and build an intentional friendship and support system. Prior to starting the Circles program, you will receive training to help increase your understanding of poverty in our community and learn how to be an effective Ally.
This training will prepare you for the Circles process. After successfully completing training, you and 1-2 other Allies will be paired with a Circle Leader. It is your job to be the Circle Leader’s biggest supporter as they work to achieve the goals they have set for themselves.
You won't be doing this alone...
At Circles, there is a large community of volunteers and resources to help you and the Circle Leaders in your journeys together. You will have the opportunity to gain new perspectives and experiences of your community and work for broader community change in the effort to reduce poverty.
Online ally training begins in September and in-person training starts in October. Matching happens after Thanksgiving!
A new Circles cohort is launched every fall. Apply to become a Circle Ally!
”The thing I’ve learned from Circles is just how difficult it is for people in poverty to get out of poverty. I had no idea of the challenges and barriers that people in poverty face, that even in their best efforts to improve their lives and lives of their families there are so many barriers that they have to overcome.
Scott W.Circle Ally
MORE WAYS TO GET INVOLVED
COOKING AND SET UP
Each week we provide a delicious and healthy meal for the Circles community. Sign up as an individual or group to help prepare and set up the meal.
CLEANUP AND TEARDOWN
Sign up to clean up and reset our meeting space. Help with dishes, putting away tables and chairs, and making the place shine!
CHILDREN’S PROGRAM
Volunteer with the Circles Children’s Program on Wednesdays from 6-8PM in Fayetteville. Includes a group meal from 6:00-6:45PM and a fun and educational children’s program from 6:45-8PM. Background check required
