Transformation Through Collaboration

Lorain County Community Action Agency’s
Annual Report to the Community
2013
Transformation Through Collaboration
Doing Our Part
Community Action work provides a truly transforming experience for both clients and
employees. People remain most important in every program and every task, every day.
Networking and collaboration are two keys to strong communities and Lorain County
residents benefit from many partnerships. All of this is made possible through the dedication of
employees and the steadfastness of many volunteers. Thank you and congratulations to all.
Employee Service Milestones
30 Years
Audrey J. Witt
25 Years
Abraham Beltran
20 Years
Earnestine J. Emerine
Carolyn A. Johnson
Beverly Jones
Kathryn E. Ramsey
Candace Shannon
Deborah Shorts
Makiko E. Woods-Hill
15 Years
Nilda Arroyo
Tracy A. Bailes
Patricia Cardarelli
Dana Daniels
Twania Henderson
Elsa I. Quinones
Mary L. Sanchez
Maria I. Vasquez
Jackie Watkins
10 Years
Renee Wonder
Volunteers
Cyria Algood
Arieon Al-Jeleel
Renita Allgood
Terence Allgood
Garrison Alston
Kelley Alston
Tara Anson-Matear
Brandon Bailey
Candice Bailey
Nikki Barber
Cierra Barrios
Shantobea Beard
Benjamin Benitez
Ronald Biggs
Turquoise Biggs
Tiffany Bobo
Jeannie Bondi
Dale Brooks
Fawn Brooks
Melyndy Brown
Sabrina Bryant
Dominique Camel
Marvin Cannon
Bridgette Charley
Alexis Charlton
Telesha Childers
Kellie Clucas
Mistie Clucas
Jasmine Craighead
Alicia Crutcher
2
Natalie Cruz
Madisyn Daniels
Kimberly Dauherty
Terry Dauherty
Brenda Davis
Destanee Davis
Sheila Dawson
Christine Delgado
Franchesca Delzer
Chinna Sto Domingo
Angela Edwards
Schonda Edwards
Shavonn Edwards
Xavier Edwards
Misty Ellis
Amanda Facemeyer
Angelee Ferguson
Cherice Fisher
Marina Flores
Richard Flucker
Samantha Freas
Steve Gilbert
Theresa Glynn
Kiana Goodson
Amanda Gustafson
Erica Hall
Sarah Hance-Hall
Danielle Harris
Jennifer Hearn
Petro Hernandez
Elaine Hershberger
Jessie Hogan
Ashten Howard
Michael Hughes
Kaitlin Hunter
Kaitlyn Ingle
Aja Jackson
Honesty Jackson
James Jackson
Kate Jackson
Tameka James
Lekeishia Jefferson
John Johnson
Robin Johnson
Orlando Jones
Tanell Jones
Margaret Kannard
Crystal Keith
Sylvia Kerns
Pamela Kidd
Toshia Killing
Ashley Kimmel
Corinna Kirkendoll
Araya Knight
Christina Konicek
Carlton Larkins
Ruth Leon
Jessica Loez
Yolanda Lopez
April Lowery
Joevondra Lynch
Billy Malkowski
Stacy Marsoa
Tai’Lynn Martin
Jenifer Martinez
April McCauliff
Heather McCullough
Courtney McKenna
Tim McKenna
Cleveland Merritt
Sheteeka Milton
Michael Mincy
Juliett Mishak
Carmetta Mittman
Shelley Napier
Minnerva Nazar
Jessica Nguyen
Arthur Noble
Amanda Nolan
Stacy Norris
Jazmine Ortiz
Jennifer Pack
Samoya Page
Justin Pasadyn
Skip Pasadyn
Haley Patton
Chelsea Payne
Lindsay Perine-Smith
Rain Petty
Sandra Phalin
Erica Pinkston
Lucretia Pitmon
Maria Porter
Bruce Pulley
Celess Pulley
Janeese Rader
Ruben Ramirez
Melinda Ramos
Melissa Ramos
Miriam Ramos
Sarah Ray
Chase Reeves
April Refitt
Stephanie Reyna
Renee Richardson
Candice Regal
Genesis Rivera
Ronnie Rivera
Megan Robart
Robin Robart
Christina Roberts
Jordan Roberts
Amy Rodriguez
Arielle Roseboro
Mike Salas
Celest Santanio
Jeanne Schlenkerman
Henry Senard
Holli Sequinn
Amer Seres
Candace Shannon
Kenneth Shannon
Wendy Sharp
Bonnie Shepherd
Camellia Shepherd
Laquita Shepherd
Marie Shway
Anthony Smith
Darice Smith
Jacqueline Smith
Jessica Smith
Kristen Smith
Gwendolyn Southern
Kimberly Spooner
Kristen Spraggins
Crystal Stewart
Donnie Stone
Michael Strimbu
Amanda Swanson
Fred Swanson
Brianna Taylor
Samantha Taylor
Kristen Thacker
Dorian Thomas
Janice Thomas
Tisheka Thomas
Amber Thompson
Carlos Toro
Krystina Torres
Stephanie Torres
Gabriel Turner
Tabetha Twining
Richard Vandergrift
Ursula Vandergrift
Angelica Vasquez
Veronica Ward
Bradley Watkins
Mary Weatherspoon
Jennifer Webb
Carely Wells
Tia Werts
Bianca West
Cynthia West
Edward Whitacker
Brandon White
Jillian White
Ebony Whitfield
Mary Whitfield
Aretha Whitmore
Brandi Whitmore
Nanika Wilkerson
Theresa Winans
Seleste Wisniesski
Cheney Young
Heather Young
Angela Zmich
Bold Vision
Our mission is to serve and empower Lorain County residents in need.
Our vision is to be a pillar of hope, building stable foundations and uplifting families
and communities through advocacy, education and collaboration.
Our values are community, communication, effectiveness/excellence, respect,
teamwork and integrity.
From the Board Chair
Hope and opportunity are more important to residents of Lorain County than ever before. I am proud
to be part of the Lorain County Community Action
Agency’s ongoing and proven work to create both hope
and opportunity for the people we serve.
Challenges continue to come, particularly with our
financial resources. However, LCCAA remains true
to its mission and strives to turn every cent into success for someone who is hurting. We are proud of our
empowerment programs, which help people learn new
skills and develop greater self-sufficiency. But we also
recognize that it’s impossible to move forward if you’re
hungry. So, this year, we shared our resources with
local food pantries to meet a growing demand.
Help and hope look different for everyone and our
staff at LCCAA take the time to know people and empower them to make lasting positive changes. Our networking skills have spread that dedication further in
2013 as you can readily see from the pages that follow.
I can’t thank you enough for demonstrating the compassion to learn more. If you know someone who needs
help or if you would like to help, please contact us.
Yours in Service,
Ron Nabakowski
Board of Directors
The Lorain County Community Action Agency is governed by a 15-members volunteer Board of Directors. In
accordance with federal laws, this group of people is made up of representatives from three sectors: public service
(often elected officials), private industry (business leaders) and low-income people or those who represent them.
This system was designed when Community Action was created to ensure that low-income people had a voice so
that genuine needs would be addressed effectively.
LCCAA’s board provides policy leadership and support, holds management accountable, participates in budget
making and fund-raising, and represents the agency and its clients throughout the county. Contact any board
member to learn more about how LCCAA is helping people and changing lives every day.
Ron Nabakowski, Chair
Henry Patterson, Vice Chair
Scott Broadwell, Secretary
Vassie Scott, Treasurer
Michelle Chivers
Rev. Calvin Currie
Anthony Giardini
Martin Leibas
Barbara O’Keefe
Gerald Pippens
Nancy Sabath
Mike Szekely
Andres Torres
3
2013 Highlights
*Created the online ViewPoint service which will be
launched in January 2014 (see below).
*Distributed 256 air conditioners and assisted 537 clients
with their electric bills. Another 890 clients re-verified
their eligibility for the state’s Percentage of Income
Payment Plan Plus for Summer Crisis in July and August.
*Established partnerships and grant funding for 25 food
pantries in Lorain County.
*Distributed 1,304 winter coats to children in partnership
with Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority and Head Start.
*Home Weatherization Assistance Program renewed after
competitive process.
*Implemented new timecard system saving 728 work
hours and $16,500 annually.
*Launched a Board of Directors intranet site to improve
An HWAP contractor works
new member orientation and communication.
on a client’s furnace.
*Launched an employee intranet site serving all work sites.
*Online enrollment available in Head Start enabling LCCAA to reach full enrollment faster than ever.
*Opened a new Head Start classroom in Wellington Village Schools serving 20 children.
*Published the “LCCAA Road Map to Excellence” focusing on strategic intiatives within the
Head Start program.
*Reduced match amount required of Emergency Home Repair clients enabling more people
to be served.
*Established 24-hour hotline for energy assistance programs.
Coming in 2014: A New Voice - Yours
www.lccaa.net\community
The LCCAA Community Connections: ViewPoint
website will allow residents to share their experiences
and advice about programs and services throughout
Lorain County.
Community members can share their experiences
or point of view in the form of reviews, comments
and tips on the most beneficial programs and services
in the County. This site is made possible through a
partnership with the United Way of Greater Lorain
County and its 211 initiative.
4
Agencies who receive the most positive feedback will
be awarded monthly for service excellence. Agency
and program administrators will also be able to sign
in and become members, in addition to accessing feedback and commentary on the services they provide.
Members of the website who provide the most feedback on programs and services will be placed on the
ViewPoint Leaderboard. The leaders will be eligible to
receive a monetary gift for their feedback and rating
contributions to the website.
Preparing Today for Better Tomorrows
From the CEO
Nearly 4 in 10 Lorain County residents struggle to meet their basic needs. At Lorain County Community Action
Agency, we address that level of need by blending our resources with others to do the most good. Through our
dedicated staff and strategic partnerships, we help people with food, housing, safe child care, access to healthcare
and free tax preparation.
Austerity cuts made in Ohio over the last several years, coupled with federal sequestration, have reduced the
funding coming into our county to provide these crucial services. LCCAA alone took a reduction of nearly half a
million dollars when the sequester hit earlier this year. We were forced to cut 48 children from Head Start and discontinue home-based services for 3 to 5 year olds.
In the long run, cutting services further jeopardizes our families’ ability to move beyond mere survival to success.
So we are evaluating all we do and making changes to do more with less. We are also increasingly working with other
organizations where we all bring our offerings to the table to achieve more. Plus, we work to make sure our services
are top-notch and worthy of continued funding. Additionally, like many non-profits, we are stepping up our efforts
to raise private funds (see below).
Through the pages of this annual report, it is my hope that the efforts of LCCAA’s talented and dedicated staff
are revealed. I thank them publicly as one small measure of my appreciation for all they do each day.
Yours in service,
Jackie Boehnlein
Local Dollars More Important Than Ever
Lorain County Community Action Agency’s Board of Directors has taken
the lead in raising private funds to aid in executing the agency’s mission.
Across the country, more and more non-profits report that government
grant dollars do not go far enough. Issues include an increase in requirements
for matching funds; more grant agreements that require non-profits to cover
costs upfront and then be reimbursed; delayed payments; the end of the federal stimulus; and the impact of the federal sequester. (Learn more at www.
nonprofitquarterly.org.)
LCCAA has responded to these trends by holding fund-raising activities
also designed to increase awareness of the agency’s mission and impact. In
2013, a silent auction and wine-tasting event was held in Amherst raising just
over $2,000 for the agency
Also in 2013, the Second Annual Taco Fiesta night provided an opportunity for family fun. Watch for both of these events to be repeated in 2014 and
for new ways to support your Community Action Agency.
Sign up for LCCAA’s monthly email newsletter at www.lccaa.net.
5
Power of Partnerships
It’s not just a cliche that we achieve more when we work together.
The Lorain County community is home to a number of strong service organizations,
all now facing financial challenges. By partnering, agencies can make
their increasingly limited resources stretch further. Partnerships in our community
have provided job training, health care, warm winter coats and food.
More people are helped and more lives are changed through the power of partnerships.
Area City and County Building Code Offices
Caresource
Case Western Reserve University
Compu360
Dollar Bank
Elyria City Health Department
Elyria City Schools
Employment Network
Finance Fund of Ohio
Goodwill
Hatch
Horizon Education Centers
Help Us Save Us
Lake Erie Crushers
Little Lighthouse Learning Center
Lorain City Health Department
Lorain City Schools
Lorain County Community College
Lorain County Health and Dentistry
6
Lorain County Health Department
Lorain County Joint Vocational School
Lorain County Metro Parks
Lorain County Workforce Development
Lorain Metropolitan Housing Authority
Lorain Public Library
New York Life, Nellie Lopez
Office on Aging
Ohio Business College
Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy
Prevent Blindness Ohio
Ronald McDonald Dental Care Mobile Unit
United Healthcare
United Way
Warm Choice
Wellington Village
Wellington Village Schools
WIC
YMCA of Greater Cleveland
Interventions that Matter
LCCAA’s biggest partnership yet had a direct, tangible and immediate impact. Anticipating a cut in food stamp benefits affecting nearly 20
percent of the Lorain County population, LCCAA offered grants to local
food pantries. Twenty-five pantries received $1,400 each to meet a spike
in demand expected as the cuts took effect Nov. 1.
“Across the country, not just in our community, food banks have become
more than a temporary solution,” said John Powers, manager of the Heritage Presbyterian Church food pantry, “instead we are a constant coping
strategy.”
Food stamp recipients in Lorain County include 34,445 adults and
25,390 children. The reduction in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits for a family of four was $36 a month. As they
announced the reductions, the U.S. Department of Agriculture advised
families to seek help from local food pantries. LCCAA knew the pantries
would need help.
“No one agency can do it by themselves and no one can wish the problem away,” said Bill Hurley, president of We Care We Share Ministries.
“The number of families who walk through our doors has increased while
funding and donations stay the same. The partnership with LCCAA made
it possible for us not to turn anyone away this holiday season.”
LCCAA allocated $34,000 from its Community Services Block Grant by gaining approval to use funds from a vacant
position. Twenty-five pantries applied and all were funded with criteria limited to federal CSBG reporting requirements.
We Care We Share provides food, produce, toiletries and cleaning items. Most food boxes prepared for families sustain
them for a week. The ministry also provides snacks to school children everyday. Last year alone, they served 33,000 people.
Powers called the food pantry partnership a miracle for Heritage Presbyterian. Their checkbook had a balance of only
$50 going into the holiday season. Everyone thinks about food donations at Thanksgiving and Christmas time, Powers
noted. However, people are hungry year round, often leading to shortfalls at holiday times.
“Partnering with LCCAA made it possible for our pantry to feed more families during the holiday season,” Powers said.
2013 Food Pantry Partners & Grant Recipients
Avon/Avon Lake Community Resource Services, Avon Lake
Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, Lorain
The Church of Saint Agnes, Elyria
Community United Methodist Church, Elyria
El Centro, Lorain
Elyria Hospitality Center, Elyria
First Congregational, Elyria
First United Methodist Church, South Amherst
Good Shepard Baptist Church, Amherst
Greater St. Matthew AME Church, Lorain
Heritage Presbyterian Church, Amherst
Lorain Christian Temple, Lorain
Lorain Cooperative Ministry, Lorain
Lorain County Office on Aging - Kinship, Elyria
Lorain County Office on Aging - Northeast, Avon
Lorain County Office on Aging - Main, Elyria
Lorain Lighthouse United Methodist Church, Lorain
The Love Center Food Cupboard, Lorain
Love Extended, Lorain
Oberlin Community Services, Oberlin
Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Grafton
Salvation Army, Elyria
St. Jude Helping Hand, Elyria
St. Mary Church, Lorain
We Care We Share Ministries, Lorain
Well Help, Wellington
7
Programs and Services
Head Start & Early Head Start
Head Start is a federally funded comprehensive child development program providing education, health and family
social services. Services for children with disabilities are also
offered as well as opportunities for parents to access educational and other services. LCCAA’s Head Start program seeks
to empower all members of its Head Start families.
Head Start classrooms focus on preparing students for kindergarten and to be lifelong learners. Areas of emphasis include language development, problem solving, managing behavior and emotions, gross and fine motor skills, literacy, and
beginning math. Head Start classrooms serve children ages 3
to 5 and meet Ohio Department of Education standards.
Early Head Start serves a subset of Head Start children
birth to age 3 as well as pregnant women. The federally funded program believes learning begins at birth and provides
early learning opportunities as well as safe, affordable child
care for working families. Healthy pregnancies and healthy
family structures are also promoted.
Early Head Start also meets the Ohio Department of Education’s new standards for early learning and the national
Head Start framework.
Fatherhood
Fathers have a unique ability to raise their children in a way
that only men can. LCCAA provides the fathers of its Head
Start children with a 12-week program designed to give them
a greater view of their potential and influence.
“Iron sharpens iron,” said program leader Marty Eggleston,
describing the program as an opportunity for fathers to learn
from other fathers. “Each parent, both mother and father, has
a unique role, but in the absence of one parent the other cannot fill both roles no matter how hard they try.”
The program is aligned with national fatherhood goals that
address the need for more active and involved fathers across
the country. Key topics include: the character and values of
a man, creating a path for children, how to handle anger and
other emotions, and developing healthy relationships.
Community Learning and Technology Center
LCCAA’s Community Learning and Technology Center was
created in 2009 using funds from the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act. The concept built upon LCCAA’s years of
experience with tutoring and GED administration.
Working with Lorain County Community College, LCCAA
became a host for Connect Your Community in 2011. Although funding from the college ended in 2012, LCCAA continued the program using the same model.
Workforce Development
LCCAA is a supporting partner of the Lorain County OneStop Employment network. The One-Stop provides training
opportunities, job readiness and job placement at no charge.
It is located at 42496 North Ridge Road in Elyria.
LCCAA also participates in Lorain County Workforce
Development Administration Programs by accepting summer youth program and senior workers. Uniquely in 2013,
LCCAA’s Head Start program welcomed a culinary student
from the Lorain County Joint Vocational School.
8
Today, Tech Connect classes (four each year) provide improved computer skills over an 8-week course designed to
erase career barriers. The program features small class sizes
and requires an orientation session at Lorain County’s Employment One-Stop. Successful completion earns participants a free, refurbished computer.
In 2013, 17 participants have successfully completed Tech
Connect classes.
Developing Self-Sufficiency
Energy
Conservation
Services
Utility Assistance
The Home Weatherization
Assistance Program (HWAP)
is federally funded by the U.S.
Department of Energy and
provided to Ohioans at no
cost for customers whose annual household income is at
or below 200 percent of the
federal poverty guidelines.
Assistance is available for both gas and electric bills. The assistance may be in the
form of a reduction of your heating bill and/or a set amount based on your income to be
paid each month. Eligibility for these programs is usually based on household income.
HWAP is designed to reduce participants’ household
energy expenditures and improve participants’ health
and safety.
HWAP services include attic, wall and basement insulation; blower-door tested air
leakage reduction; heating
system repairs or replacements; electric baseload measures which address lighting
and appliance efficiency; and
health and safety inspections
and testing.
After weatherization services, households that heat
with natural gas reduce space
heating consumption by an
average of 24.7 percent and
electrically heated homes reduce usage an average of 13
percent.
HWAP participants have
an improved utility bill payment history. In fact, the rate
of disconnections of utility service for this group decreased by 50 percent.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
Summer Crisis Cooling Program
Winter Crisis Heating Program
Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP Plus)
Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) Plus is a special payment plan that
requires eligible customers to pay a portion of their household income each month to
maintain utility services. Under PIPP Plus, if you heat with gas, you pay 6 percent
of your monthly household income to your gas company and 6 percent to your electric
company. If you heat with electricity, you pay 10 percent of your monthly household
income.
LCCAA or your utility company will inform you of your PIPP Plus installment. The
program features earned arrearage credits to eliminate outstanding balances. Once you
are enrolled in the program, you must pay your installment every month in full and on
time.
Emergency Home Repair
LCCAA’s Emergency Home Repair Program is designed to improve safety and
health conditions in homes owned by income-eligible persons.
age. In 2013, that percentage was lowered
from 33 percent to 20 percent enabling more
homeowners to participate. The maximum
award from LCCAA funds remains at $2,666.
The program addresses conditions as well
as code violations by replacing or repairing
roofs, windows, electrical systems, plumbing, and heating systems. Ramps and other
access improvements may also be installed.
LCCAA holds the homeowners funds until
the work is completed by one of three qualified estimators contacted by the homeowner. LCCAA requires contractors to provide
proof of licensure and encourages clients to
check references. LCCAA does not issue payment until the homeowner is satisfied with
the work.
In this matching grant program, homeowners are required to contribute a percent-
By Car
Under this highly successful program of the Ohio Finance Fund, income-eligible persons
save their earned income toward a vehicle purchase. A grant from the Ohio Finance Fund
matches their savings 2 to 1 up to a total of $3,999.
Participants take financial literacy courses as well as learning the costs of owning a vehicle
and its proper maintenance. LCCAA uses Agency relationships to ensure clients purchase
quality vehicles.
In 2013, By Car has helped six LCCAA clients acquire independent transportation.
9
Lives Improved
R’Nita and Isaac were in search of a childcare program for their daughters
when they noticed a Head Start billboard in their community. During a visit
to the Hopkins-Locke Learning Community in Lorain, they learned about the
program, took a classroom tour, and met the friendly and welcoming staff.
They enrolled their daughters immediately.
“Since Savanna and Aiyanna have been in the program they’ve learned so
much,” R’Nita said.
At first, Savanna (2) had difficulty adjusting to the Early Head Start classroom, but R’Nita found the staff very encouraging.
“Savanna had this screeching cry that you could hear down the hallways
when I dropped her off, so I would turn to come back, and Ms. Brooke and Ms.
Denise would say ‘mom she will be fine, try not to worry’,” R’Nita said. “That
showed me how committed and patient they were with my child.”
R’Nita was surprised when 4-year-old Aiyanna came home and knew how to set the dinner table.
“Teaching her how to set the table was something I never thought about teaching her so young, but her teachers explained
this is done in all Head Start classrooms to encourage their participation,” she said.
Both parents work part-time and attend college full-time; R’Nita is pursuing a Health Administration degree while Isaac
pursues a business degree. Over time R’Nita also became a regular classroom volunteer. Then both parents joined the parent
committee and Policy Council.
The Policy Council is a committee of Head Start parents who volunteer their time to meet and discuss program planning and
governance. Isaac serves as secretary and both attend monthly meetings. As Policy Council members, both have attended Head
Start national conferences on behalf of the program in Washington D.C. and Atlanta. There they learned about the positive
effects of Head Start on children and families and the challenges facing Head Start on a national scale.
“Our children have developed so many new skills as a result of the program and its teachers” Isaac said.
“We are proud to volunteer our time to a program and staff that are helping to prepare our children for Kindergarten and
beyond,” added R’Nita.
Father of two Dave* had been without real heat or electric
for several months when he met HEAP specialist Andrea Cash
at LCCAA.
When he moved into his home, a previous tenant had left
both a balance with Ohio Edison and a frustrated landlord.
Dave was unable to get electric service in his name, although
he was able to afford the monthly charges.
Dave resorted to heating the home with wood fires and using
a generator, charged by his car. Both unconventional sources
of power were too expensive to continue long term.
Confused and tired, Dave came to LCCAA. First, Andrea
set up an account with a wood supplier to help Dave keep his
home warm. She also contacted Ohio Edison and helped Dave
supply the documents they needed to verify that he was not
10
responsible for the previous
tenant’s balance.
It took multiple trips to
LCCAA and multiple phone
calls to resolve the issues
but Dave now has electric
service in his name and is
enrolled in PIPP Plus so his
bills are within his budget.
He also has an affordable
source of heat in the wood
that was provided.
“He was extremely grateful,” Andrea said. “It was a long journey but it was well worth
it because a community member left happy and satisfied.”
*This client’s name has been changed.
Head Start Annual
Information Update
Head Start Annual Information Update
Head Start is a federally funded comprehensive child development program. Since
1966, Lorain County families have been
served with this program by Lorain County
Community Action agency. Head Start consists of two programs: Head Start and Early
Head Start. Head Start serves 939 preschool
age children. A total of 1,167 were enrolled
throughout the year with full enrollment at
939 maintained by filling vacated slots from
the program’s waiting list. The children
came from 1,067 families.
Children from birth to age 5 (and pregnant
women) are automatically eligible if they are
receiving Temporary Aid to Needy Families
(TANF) or Supplemental Security Income
(SSI). Children in foster care are also automatically eligible. Families with an income
at or below 130 percent of the federal poverty level are also eligible. To promote interaction among children of all backgrounds,
LCCAA’s program allows for up to 10 percent of households to be above 130 percent
of poverty.
Head Start is federally funded and LCCAA exceeds the requirement to generate local, in-kind contributions equal to 20 percent of the funding. For Program Year 2012-2013, LCCAA recorded just over $2.1 million in in-kind contributions of goods and
services, including parent and community member volunteer hours.
The Head Start program offers comprehensive education, health and family social services, including services for children
with disabilities. Among students, 1,022 physical or well-checks were facilitated along with 987 dental exams.
Head Start believes that parents are the first and best teachers in the lives of their children. LCCAA works to empower parents through the Parent Power Club. Parents have opportunities to gain educational information, employment opportunities
and a wide range of social services directly or through referrals with community partners. Head Start children enter kindergarten ready to learn with supportive parents experienced in advocating for them. Head Start is a unique organization in that
it has a system of joint governance with the CAA. Parents serve in leadership roles on a Parent Policy Council and are involved
in all areas of decision making. The program also boasts 722 volunteers.
It’s Never Too Early for a Head Start
Early Head Start is federally funded through an annual grant from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families. Early Head Start is a comprehensive child development program serving infants and
toddlers (birth to age 3) and pregnant women in low-income families.
The program is designed to promote healthy pregnancies, development of children before preschool and healthy family
structures. Early Head Start presently serves 40 pregnant women, infants and toddlers. A total of 58 were enrolled throughout
the year, maintaining full enrollment of 40 by filling vacated slots from the program’s waiting list. The children came from 49
families.
Comprehensive services provided in Early Head Start included 46 physicals or well-checks and 47 dental exams. This program is aided by 96 volunteers.
12
Accessible Countywide Ser vices
Lorain County Community Action Head Start meets
children and families where they are. Each situation
is unique and so is the mix of services each family receives.
Children with Disabilities
2
1
33
Additionally, LCCAA takes care to locate its Head
Start Centers and collaborative partners where need is
the greatest, taking into account pockets of poverty in
areas that are harder to reach due to the area’s lack of
public transit. A community needs assessment is conducted annually.
85
Each red dot indicates 50 people living in
poverty, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Diamonds denote the location of directly
operated Head Start Centers.

 



1
Stars denote collaborative Centers.
Lorain
3. Elyria Early Childhood Village
1005 Rosealee Ave., Elyria
8
9
Vermillion
Amherst
Avon
2
10
1. Horizon Activity Center
2500 Colorado Ave., Lorain
2. Horizon Activity Center,
4911 Grove Ave., Lorain
Avon
Lake
Sheffield
4
3
North
Ridgeville
Elyria
5
4. Horizon Activity Center
10347 Dewhurst Road, Elyria
6
5. Hamilton Head Start Cen ter, 1215 Middle Ave., Elyria
6. Horizon Activity Center,
104 Louden Court, Elyria
(LMHA)
Oberlin
Grafton
La Grange
7. Oberlin Head Start Center,
12078 Leavitt Road, Oberlin
8. Lorain City Schools,
five locations in Lorain
9. Hopkins-Locke Head Start
Center, 1050 Reid Ave.,
Lorain
10. Little Lighthouse Learn ing Center, 205 W. 21st St.,
Lorain
11. Wellington Head Start
Center, 305 Union St.,
Wellington
7
Wellington

11
Source: U.S. Census Bureau and
Northern Ohio Data and Information
Service.
13
Ready to Learn, Ready to Succeed
Learning is Fun
Lorain County CAA
Head Start School Readiness
Outcomes Report 2013
LCCAA’s Head Start teachers and
staff know learning begins at birth and
intentionally maintain strong learning
environments.
At this age, learning often looks like
play while important skills lay the
groundwork for school readiness. For
example, learning to manipulate objects leads to holding crayons which
leads to writing.
Ready to Grow
Ready to Learn
Ready to Succeed
LCCAA’s Head Start program
reports a child’s learning in five
standardized content areas:
• Approaches to Learning
• Cognition and General Knowledge
• Language and Literacy
• Physical Development and Health
• Social and Emotional Development
A detailed account of the 2012-2013
achievements of LCCAA’s Head Start
program can be found in the Head
Start School Readiness Outcomes
Report 2013 (available at www.lccaa.
net).
Head Start Four Year Olds’ Growth
Widely Held
Expectations Area
Language
Cognitive
Social/Emotional
Physical
Literacy
Mathematics
Fall 2012
Below
Meet
Exceed
68%
31%
1%
67%
31%
2%
68%
28%
4%
65%
34%
1%
46%
54%
1%
73%
26%
1%
Spring 2013
Below
Meet
Exceed
20%
59%
21%
16%
59%
25%
19%
43%
28%
19%
65%
16%
10%
64%
26%
25%
54%
21%
Three year olds in the Head Start program are assessed in the same areas and data is available upon request.
Kindergarten Readiness
Transition Planning
Classroom transition activities
Outcomes shared with parents
Coordinate disability services with local schools
Parent meetings on transitions
Kindergarten registrations
Parents receive kindergarten information
Kindergarten visits
Bridging ceremonies (98% parent participation)
Share child outcomes data w/ local schools
14
Sept.
Oct.
Nov.
Dec.
Jan.
Feb.
Mar.
Apr.
May
Head Start Annual Information Update
Partner
In-Kind Description
Total Contribution
Lorain City Schools
Head Start Partnership Services,
Classroom Donations, Parent
Volunteers
$1,164,053
Elyria City Schools
Head Start Partnership Services,
Classroom Donations, Parent
Volunteers
$233,886
Little Lighthouse Learning Center
Head Start Partnership Services
$156,282
Horizon Education Centers
Head Start Partnership Services
$161,540
Case Western Dental School
Dental Exams
Hopkins-Locke Learning Community
Classroom & Parent Volunteers,
Classroom Donations
$154,301
Hamilton Learning Community
Classroom & Parent Volunteers,
Classroom Donations
$177,601
Oberlin Learning Community
Classroom & Parent Volunteers,
Classroom Donations
$57,008
Application Link, Inc.
Software Support
$14,378
Lorain Public Library
Literacy Services
$3,300
Home Based Services
Parent Volunteers
$12,469
$7,011
Parents Making a
Difference
Head Start organizations throughout
the United States empower parents as
well as children by helping them develop new skill sets. LCCAA’s Policy Council provides parents with an opportunity to share in decision making that
affects the entire Head Start program.
It is just one of the many ways
LCCAA collaborates with individuals
and organizations to bring about genuine transformation in our community.
Volunteer members of the 2013-2014
Policy Council are:
Melanie Fields
Heather Fisher
Kristy Hehnen
Elaine Hershberger
Heather Jones
Shavon Miller
Juliet Mishak
Isaac Moore
R’Nita Murphy
Shayna O’Neal
Kristen Smith
Daniel Soto
Kelly Soto
Vaughn Sprinkle
Andres Torres
Theresa Winans
15
Head Start Annual Information Update
Head Start
Head Start
Early Head
Start
Early Head
Start
# of Children
% of Total
Children
# of Children
% of Total
Children
Number of children with an ongoing source of
continuous, accessible health care
1,164
99.74%
48
97.96%
Number of children with continuous, accessible
dental care provided by a dentist
1,061
90.91%
44
89.80%
Children who have received or are receiving
medical treatment
219
18.76%
4
8.16%
Children who have received or are receiving
dental treatment
193
16.58%
n/a
n/a
# of Families
% of Families
# of Families
% of Families
1,067
100%
49
100%
Total Two-Parent Families
355
33.27%
21
42.86%
Total of Single Parent Families
712
66.73%
28
57.14%
# of Families
% of Families
# of Families
% of Families
Families receiving cash benefits under TANF
228
21.36%
6
12.24%
Families receiving SSI
136
12.74%
3
<1%
# of Families
% of Families
# of Families
% of Families
Families experiencing homelessness that were
served during the enrollment year
27
<1%
1
<1%
Families experiencing homelessness that acquired
housing during program year
9
<1%
1
<1%
Father Involvement
# of Children
% of Families
519
48.64%
Health Services Report
Family Information Report
Total of Families
Federal or Other Assistance
Service to Homeless Families
Enrolled children whose father/father figure
participated in activities designed to involve
fathers/father figures
16
# of Children % of Families
17
34.69%
Achieving Outcomes for Families
Head Start
Family Services
# of Families
Head Start
Early Head
Start
Early Head
Start
% of Families # of Families % of Families
Emergency/crisis intervention such as meeting
immediate needs for food, clothing or shelter
313
29.33%
27
55%
Housing assistance such as subsidies, utilities,
repairs, etc.
227
21.27%
12
24.48%
Mental health services
69
6.46%
5
10.02%
English as a second language training
18
1.68%
2
4.08%
Adult education such as GED programs and
college selection
96
8.99%
4
8.16%
Job training
33
3.09%
7
14.28%
Substance abuse prevention or treatment
7
<1%
1
2.04%
Child abuse and neglect services
13
1.21%
0
0%
Domestic violence services
3
<1%
2
4.08%
Child support assistance
18
1.68%
0
0%
Health education
462
43.29%
28
57%
2
<1%
2
4.08%
Parenting education
685
64.19%
48
97.95%
Relationship/Marriage education
24
2.24%
3
6.12%
Assistance to families of incarcerated individuals
At year end, 1 of every 4 Head Start students moving on
to Kindergarten exceeded the learning expectations for
their age group in literacy skills and ability to learn.
17
Statement of Financial Position
Unaudited 2013
Audited 2012
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and Cash Equivalents
333,202
464,516
Grants Receivable
506,113
565,713
2,179
2,840
57,891
41,057
-
2,053
899,385
1,076,179
47,474
47,474
1,086,181
1,086,181
1,133,655
1,133,655
(678,159)
(629,851)
455,496
503,804
$1,354,881
$1,579,983
238,648
172,569
224,680
93,176
54,632
55,691
134,070
537,688
17,894
17,893
1,575
1,575
671,498
878,592
241,389
259,284
Accounts Receivable (net of allowance for
uncollectable account of $1,796)
Prepaid Expenses
Other Current Assets
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Land
Building and Improvements
Less Accumulated Depreciation
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts Payable
Accrued Expenses
Payroll and Related Expenses and Withholdings
Vacation
Refundable Advances
Current Portion of Long-Term Debt
Other Current Liabilities
LONG TERM DEBT, LESS CURRENT PORTION
NET ASSETS
Unrestricted
18
441,993
442,107
Temporarily Restricted
-
-
Permanently Restricted
-
-
$1,354,881
$1,579,983
Revenue and Expenditures
Directing Funding Where it Matters Most
LCCAA’ s administrative costs are low.
The overwhelming majority of each
dollar coming into the agency is spent
on programs and services that
meet local needs.
Revenues
Expenditures
Unaudited
2012 - 2013
Community Service Block Grant (CSBG)
412,820
ARRA Community Service Block Grant ( ARRA-CSBG)
CSBG T&TA - LCCAA & Erie Huron Merger 2009
CSBG T&TA - OBB
Head Start *
6,869,095
USDA
410,658
Step Up To Quality
37,486
Head Start Body Start
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)
930,246
TCO Fuel Funding 2009 (Columbia Gas)
Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP)
458,511
ARRA Home Weatherization Assistance Program (ARRA-HWAP)
ARRA Head Start
In-Kind
2,211,562
Homeless Prevention & Rapid Re-Housing
Ohio Partners for Affordable Energy (OPAE)
20,038
Warm Choice
National Foreclosure Mitigation Counseling (NFMC)
Finance Fund - Pre Development
Fifth Third
318
Lorain Metro Housing Authority - Family Self-Sufficiency
Healthy Lorain County Partners Community
Hardest Hit Fund
Ohio Home Finance Agency (OHFA)
OHFA Home Buyer Counseling
Super NOFA
By Car
Office of Housing and Community Partnerships
(202)
PNC Foundation
15,306
Day Care Services
149,862
Senior Living Will
Windy Acres Property Management
Ronald McDonald House Charities
Corporate
52,426
Furnace Rebate Program
Total Revenue by Funding Source
11,568,126
Less Grant Advancements (133,409)
11,434,717
Grant Revenue
Grant Advancements
Interest Income
Program Income
Donations
Other Income
In-Kind
Total Revenue by Income Type
9,152,785
(133,409)
271
179,206
4,264
20,038
2,211,562
11,434,717
Audited
2011-2012
441,625
6,818,701
397,691
18,768
1,217,935
269,803
615,566
1,979,996
46,876
9,996
(9,924)
520
6,000
10,646
(1,151)
6,048
6,161
87,651
15,306
120,497
11,541
500
15,148
3,192
12,089,092
(537,027)
11,552,065
9,917,385
(537,027)
274
117,619
13,744
60,075
1,979,995
11,552,065
Community Services Block Grant
Energy Services
Emergency Services
Head Start (Including USDA, SUTQ, HSBS)
Housing
By Car
Fifth Third Bank
Lorain Metro Housing Authority FSS
Finance Fund - Pre Development
PNC Foundation
Windy Acres Management
Day Care Services
Senior Services
Corporate
Make A Difference Foundation
Total Expenditures by Source
Net Assets
Personnel
Fringe Benefits
Consultants/Contracts
Travel/Transportation
Space Costs
Supplies/Food
Equipment Lease/Purchase/Depreciation
Energy Assistance Payments
Insurance
Other
General Administrative Expense
In-Kind Expense
Total Expenses by Category
Net Assets
Unaudited
2012 - 2013
366,612
868,750
471,298
9,520,308
(202)
121
148,392
59,552
11,434,831
Audited
2011 - 2012
276,532
1,013,815
850,977
9,199,980
107,146
2,405
202
6,304
34,121
60,049
50
11,551,581
(114)
484
3,097,040
2,190,993
1,051,261
85,949
581,302
411,992
127,596
529,209
38,645
397,785
711,497
2,211,562
11,434,831
3,074,412
2,172,163
996,879
77,858
583,506
159,768
222,504
793,648
47,018
818,897
624,933
1,979,995
11,551,581
(114)
484
* Next year’s report will reflect federal budget cuts of $356,595 to
Head Start and Early Head Start. Actual reductions have been
made to salary and benefits; managers have been furloughed; budgets
for recruitment and computers have been cut and a literacy program
enhancement was discontinued. Most importantly, as a result of the
sequester, we are serving 48 fewer children this year and our Home
Base program has been eliminated.
19
Lorain County
Community Action Agency
506 Broadway, P.O. Box 245
Lorain, Ohio 44052-0245
440-245-2009
www.lccaa.net
Serving Lorain County since 1966.
Our mission is to serve and empower Lorain
County residents in need.
Lorain County Community Action Agency is a private, nonprofit 501(c)3 organization
which is proud to be part of the nationwide network of more than
1,000 Community Action Agencies established by the
Economic Opportunity Act of 1964.