CIRCLES IMPACT
"Being a part of Circles has taught me a lot. I have learned how to budget, the importance of mental health and how to set goals. These are the steps I needed to learn while on my way out of poverty."
- Joanna C.
"Through Circles of Palm Beach County I have started a path that before, I didn’t know how to get to. I am eternally grateful to have had the honor of joining this program. I did this not only for my children but for myself. I have also gained a sisterhood that I was missing in my life. The motivation, the support, we get from each other remains to be the greatest gift I can get from any program."
- Katoya M.
Through our partnership with Circles USA, we are running a unique program to help individuals and families break out of poverty and become upwardly mobile through education, mentoring and personal resolve to succeed.
Circles® initiative is offered in Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Riviera Beach, West Palm Beach and other cities across Palm Beach County.
Circles® is a community-driven solution that addresses the underlying causes of poverty and supports families in a holistic, long-term pathway to economic stability.
Oftentimes, success in nearly any endeavor is influenced by the people and resources that surround us. When we encircle ourselves with positive support through mentorships, education and training, and the right resources, anything is possible.
That’s what Circles represent. Each circle is a continual source of influence, each linking to the other and creating the greatest impact.
THE CIRCLES MODEL
We believe strongly that responsibility for both poverty and prosperity rests not only in the hands of individuals, but also with societies, institutions, and communities. It’s the underlying foundation of the Circles® model – engage people and organizations in the community to end poverty.
This national movement reinforces the belief that every member of the community has gifts and strengths to share with one another. It offers participants, referred to as Circle Leaders, the opportunity to identify their own strengths in order to improve their lives and to help build the community around them.
Afterwards, we align our Circle Leaders with Allies, or volunteers, that are interested in empowering individuals and helping their community thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible to be a Circle Leader?
Participants are eligible if their household income is 150 percent or less of the federal poverty guidelines. Successful participants are those who are motivated to become economically stable and are dedicated to the Circles USA model.
How long is the Circles program?
Circle Leaders are expected to be a part of Circles for a minimum of 12-18 months. Initially participants attend a 12-week training where they establish their goals and future plans and learn new tools to reach economic stability. Childcare and a meal are always provided.
Upon class completion, participants are each matched with trained volunteers called Allies. Regular weekly meetings begin where the meetings are centered around Circle Leaders and Allies discussing goals and concerns.
What is a Circle Ally?
Circle Allies establish a supportive, intentional, befriending relationship with an individual or family enrolled in the program. They work with the Circle Leaders on accomplishing the goals they set for themselves.
We ensure Allies are provided with training on how to best support Leaders in achieving their goals to get out of poverty.
How do I know if Circles is right for me?
If you are motivated and feel stuck with where you are at financially, and want to provide a better future for your family, but need connections to resources and training to make it happen, then Circles might be a great fit for you.