to read our report - Community Action Agency of Oklahoma and

“An Important Community Partner”
Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and
Oklahoma/Canadian Counties, Inc.
April 2015 - March 2016
Annual Report
Agency Directory
CENTRAL OFFICE
319 SW 25TH STREET
OKC
DISTRICT CENTERS
CANADIAN COUNTY
203 N Bickford - El Reno
CITY - COUNTY
12520 NE 36th - Spencer
NORTHEAST
3401 NE 16th - OKC
NORTHWEST
1300 N McKinley - OKC
COUNCIL GROVE ELEMENTARY
7721 W Melrose - OKC
VALLEY BROOK
6315 S Camille - OKC
FD MOON ACADEMY
1901 NE 13th – OKC
WILL ROGERS
1621 SW 15th - OKC
GREEN PASTURES ELEMENTARY
4300 N Post - Spencer
KAISER ELEMENTARY
3101 Lyon Blvd. - OKC
MARK TWAIN ELEMENTARY
2451 W Main - OKC
ROCKWOOD ELEMENTARY
3101 SW 24th – OKC
WHEELER ELEMENTARY
501 SE 25th – OKC
SOUTHEAST
6315 S Camille - OKC
SOUTHWEST
1621 SW 15th - OKC
HEAD START
CENTERS
MIDWEST CITY
1124 N Douglas - MWC
ARMSTRONG
309 SW 5th - Luther
TURNING POINT CENTERS
EL RENO
203 N Bickford - El Reno
SOBER LIVING
2425 NE 10TH - OKC
TURNING POINT SOUTH
1607 SW 15th - OKC
HEAD START
SATELLITES
BUCHANAN ELEMENTARY
4126 NW 18TH - OKC
CAPITOL HILL ELEMENTARY
2717 S Robinson - OKC
CENTRAL OAK ELEMENTARY
1450 S Eastern - OKC
Page 1
HEADSTART/
EARLY HEADSTART/
DAYCARE
AVERY
1425 N Kelham – OKC
KIDDIE VILLAGE
801 NE 2nd - OKC
OAK GROVE
3301 SW 17th – OKC
RUTH DROPKIN
6500 S Shields – OKC
WEST OAK
2100 S Everest - OKC
CARVER MARK TWAIN
2412 W. Main – OKC
HEADSTART/ DAYCARE
DANA BROWN COOPER
9300 NE 10th – MWC
HAPPY TIMES
405 S Air Depot Blvd. - MWC
EDMOND
717 Churchill Rd. – Edmond
LITTLE LEARNERS
14391 NE 23RD – Choctaw
GARDEN - DIGGS
2201 N Coltrane - OKC
MARY HELEN NELSON
1115 NE 7TH - OKC
MCKINLEY
1300 N McKinley - OKC
METRO TECH
3901 Martin Luther King - OKC
MT. ROSE
1701 NW 7th - OKC
NEW HEIGHTS
7291 NW 23rd - Bethany
OUR SPOT
1532 W Hefner Rd. – OKC
PLAINVIEW
7105 N Kelley Ave. - OKC
STEED
2118 Flannery – MWC
DELEGATE AGENCY
500 SE Grand-OKC
Executive Director’s Report
FY 2015-2016
I am pleased to present to you the annual report for this Agency for the
period of April 2015 to March 2016. This report depicts the work of
our various programs that we administer. We are an “Important
Community Partner”. Our mission remains the same as shown on the
back cover; however, as with most non-profit agencies, new
procedures, policies and laws consistently change when funding is
received from the state, federal and city sources. Our federal and city
funding for this fiscal year has been stable. However, we also received
a seven percent reduction of state funds as did other state funded
Executive Director
agencies. Fortunately, we have had no layoffs although certain
James E. Sconzo
programs have been reduced from an eight to a six hour duty day. As
most of Oklahoma, we are short teachers. Head Start requires a BA Degree in Early Childhood or related
field. Consequently, we compete with the public schools for teachers. However, we have adequately
maintained the required number of classrooms necessary to meet our mandatory funded enrollment. A new
requirement for our Emergency Home Repair Program is we must now receive historical and environmental
clearances before we work on a house. This has delayed us considerably in meeting emergency needs.
Weatherization must now undergo a “Quality Control Inspection” on selected houses. Failure to pass dictates
that corrective work must be accomplished without using Weatherization funds. The Office of Community
Service, Washington D.C., has developed fifty-six standards that a Community Action must comply with.
Such standards were effective January 1st, 2016 and compliance will be monitored by the Oklahoma
Department of Commerce. We will meet all of these changes with a positive attitude and continue to serve the
populace of Oklahoma and Canadian Counties. As you review the “Community Action Accomplishments” in
this report, you can only determine that we have a considerable impact on the communities that we serve. We
are a large non-profit agency, employing over 350 with a payroll of over ten million dollars. We are just one
of the 1,000 CAA’s Nation-wide serving all fifty states. We have a thirty-six member tripartite board of
directors composed of representatives from low-income community, political and business/agencies meeting
each month. We also have a voluminous number of partners as one agency cannot solve all the problems
necessary to eliminate poverty. Thank you board members, staff and volunteers for making Community
Action work.
~ James E. Sconzo
Page 2
“An Important Community Partner”
Board President
Carole Brown
As we navigated another fiscal year, we were continually reminded of
the importance and significance of the exemplary work accomplished
by the administration, staff, and volunteers of Community Action
Agency. Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and
Oklahoma/Canadian Counties, Inc., is indeed, an important community
partner. These significant partnerships formed throughout the
communities have resulted in services to residents from the private,
public and low-income sectors of our growing communities. CAA
works in collaboration with their partners to promote self-sufficiency of
the socially, economically, and culturally disadvantaged citizens of
Oklahoma and Canadian Counties and to eliminate poverty and provide
the opportunity to work and live in decency, dignity and worth. Each
year the Agency faces budget cuts and uncertainties, but quality,
comprehensive services continue because of dedication of the Agency
administration and staff.
Through the many partnerships held by this agency, CAA is able to provide assistance with utilities, food,
clothing, rental assistance, and education. Community Action Agency partnerships makes it possible to
provide services in the areas of asset development, child and youth development, housing services, emergency
assistance, transportation, health care, and services to seniors. These are only a few of the many services
provided through Community Action Agency demonstrating the significance of the Agency as an important
community partner. Community Action Agency continues to shape partnerships with other organizations
which facilitates greater visibility and accessibility to members of the community. Members on the Board of
Directors are instrumental in providing information on the services available through Community Action
Agency to members of their own communities, whether at home, work or other venues. The work of this
organization is not easy, but through the efforts of compassionate, dedicated, and caring staff and volunteers
and through the capable, experienced and expert leadership of their Executive Director, Community Action
Agency has provided economic opportunities that
improve the quality of life for our citizens. The
Agency Board of Directors is pleased to serve and
represent Community Action Agency and we celebrate and support the untiring, persistent work
that is accomplished.
Page 3
FY 2015-2016
President - Carole Brown
1st Vice President - Lorraine Scott
Secretary - Nikki Pruitt
2nd Vice President - James Strider
Treasurer - Roy Gordon
AGENCY
REPRESENTATIVES
AREA
REPRESENTATIVES
POLITICAL
REPRESENTATIVES
J. KEVIN BERRY
OKC Fire Department
NIKKI PRUITT
Canadian County Area
CAROL TITUS
Coun. Ryan #8
DAVID MARTIN
Metro Tech Vo-Tech
LESLIE LAMBETH
City-County Area
PATRICK STEWART
OKC Police Department
HARRY WILSON
S. OKC Chamber of Commerce
HAROLD ORANGE
City-County Area
TRISHA BALDWIN
Coun. Shadid #2
DEISY ESCALERA
OKC Public Schools
DOROTHY HARDING
Northeast Area
SANTOS HERNANDEZ
Coun. White #4
TENA SLAUGHTER
O.G. & E.
VERA FORD
Northeast Area
MIKE EATON
Coun. Greenwell #5
ROY GORDON
AFL-CIO Labor Council
ALFREDA HIBBARD
Northwest Area
JAMES STRIDER
Mayor of OKC
SARAH ROBERTS
Inasmuch Foundation
REV. JESSE CRADDUCK
Northwest Area
DAVID VON TUNGELN
Canadian Co. Comm.
STEVE BLOOMBERG
O.C.C.C.
VACANT
Northwest Area
BRENDA JOHNSTON
Coun. McAtee #3
LORRAINE SCOTT
O.N.G.
CARISSA EDWARDS
Southeast Area
KIM LOPEZ
OK County Sheriff Department
MARIE WILLIAMS-VAUGHT
Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs
LEWIS NEIMAN
Southeast Area
CAROLE BROWN
Coun Pettis Jr. #7
STEFANIE STROUD
Crooked Oak Public Schools
LARENE SHERWOOD
Southwest Area
KENNETH COUCHMAN
Coun. Greiner #1
MAIRA MATA
Southwest Area
GLORIA TORRES
Coun Salyer #6
MARY SOSA
Southwest Area
Page 4
Community Action Accomplishments
Asset Development
2,670 households received free tax return
Child and Youth Development
preparation assistance
Head Start enrolled 2,229 children
$4,560,499 Total amount of Federal tax
102 Children were enrolled in Early Head
refunds received by community members
Start
126 new jobs were created as a result of agen-
240 Children are provided childcare by the
cy assistance
agency
236 individuals were provided business
103 Head Start classrooms
development assistance
3 Public School formal collaboration
5 new businesses were established as a result of
agreements with Head Start
agency provided assistance
$12,323,289 total federal funds
126 individuals were provided Financial Ed-
provided for Head Start
ucation Training
More than 118 youth were served through
summer programs
17 individuals opened an Individual
Development Account
Approximately 11 individuals with an
Individual Development Account are saving for
higher education
13 IDA participants purchased a home with
Approximately 402 youth utilized the
McKinley Park gym program
142 Head Start children were served by the
Delegate Agency Educare
savings
Approximately 2 persons with an Individual
Development Account started a business with
savings
Civic Involvement
Over 11,500 volunteer hours were donated
by low-income individuals
Approximately 1,107 individuals donated
time
Christmas assistance was provided to 1,390
clients
7 Kiosk’s stations are accessible for public use
Page 5
Housing Services
199 individuals completed Home Buyers
workshop
41 households were provided down payment
and closing cost assistance
$514,538 Amount of down payment and
closing cost assistance provided
Approximately 81 households were
weatherized
3 Single-family (SAR) houses rehabilitated
11 Green Home Loans
FY 2015-2016
Emergency Assistance
Health Care
716 individuals received public transportation
More than 5,128 prescriptions have
been obtained by clients
1,762 families received emergency food
501 New clients in Rx for Oklahoma
assistance
393 families received emergency clothing
assistance
88 households received utility payment assistance
totaling $6,525
More than 157 individuals began Drug
and Alcohol Substance Abuse outpatient
counseling treatment programs
Over 70 households received rent or mortgage
payment assistance
Approximately 78 individuals completed
outpatient counseling treatment programs
Fans were provided to more than 80 households
Rx for Oklahoma partners with 2 free
clinics
99 households provided emergency home repairs
obtained prescriptions
Seniors
Transit
8 Vehicles in transit fleet
Approximately 26,664 passenger trips provided
for all programs
Over 14,788 seniors received
transportation to congregate meal sites
1,684 individuals received assistance
from Senior Companion Program
40,328 miles driven by all vehicles for all
programs
8,256 seniors used shopping routes
Services
734 seniors used medical routes
11,892 Number of CAA Units of Service
9,456 Individuals or 5,421 families served by
Senior transportation services provided to a
total of 426 (unduplicated) Seniors
CAA
Fiscal
$10,457,898 Total payroll (April 1, 2015 - March 31, 2016)
More than $2,800,000 was spent on goods and materials
Approximately $235,000 city/state taxes were paid
$30,551,880 Agency Budget for 2015
Page 6
Administrative Services Division
The Administrative Services Division is responsible for many different tasks which
enable the Agency to achieve daily goals and objectives.
Property & Procurement
Receives and verifies all
deliveries
Procures and distributes
consumable supplies
Oversees competitive pricing and
bidding procedures
Maintains agency inventory and
equipment.
Receptionist
Directs incoming calls and deliveries
Confers general information to guests
and visitors
Personnel
Administers Human Resources activities
Oversees Workers’ Compensation,
Family Medical Leave, OSHA Safety
Standards
Maintains all forms of Agency insurance
Conforms Policy and Procedures
Manual to Federal, State, and Funding
Source Guidelines
Mailroom
Processes mail daily
Generates Agency calendar of events
Assists the Receptionist and Print Shop
Printshop
Produces Agency manuals, brochures,
and newsletters
Prints neighborhood newsletters
Responsible for the production of all
Agency forms and publications
Page 7
Fiscal Services Division
FY 2015-2016
The Fiscal Services Division ensures that the Agency’s thirty million dollar budget is spent in accordance with
Federal, State and Local grant guidelines. The Division has over 72 years of combined non-profit experience.
They work closely with all Agency Divisions to develop and monitor budgets for Agency programs. Monthly
program financial statements are prepared and reviewed by the Executive Director and Agency Division
Directors. A monthly consolidated Fiscal Report is submitted to the Board of Directors for their review.
Financial Summary
Funding Sources
Federal Funds
State Funding*
City of OKC Funding**
Other Funding
In-Kind Contributions
13,676,439
5,335,991
6,791,531
838,352
3,909,567
$30,551,880
Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2016
*includes federal pass-through funds
**includes federal and state pass-through
funds.
Funding Uses
Education
Employment
Housing
Income Management
Nutrition
Health
Linkages
Emergency Assistance
A review of our Head Start budget can be obtained online at
www.caaofokc.org
18,098,025
5,939,476
1,935,458
1,635,572
1,356,909
608,922
511,368
466,150
$30,551,880
Page 8
Head Start Division
I Can Show You The World
Shining, Shimmering, Splendid!
We had approximately 2,229 children enrolled for this
year, with an average monthly enrollment of 1896, which
is approximately 98% of our funded enrollment of 1939.
Our most recent Community Needs Assessment
determined that we serve approximately 25% of the
eligible children in our area. Of the 2,229 children
enrolled, 4% were enrolled less than 45 days. These
children were not in the program long enough to receive
required health services. Approximately 1,879, or 88% of
enrolled children received a physical examination, and
2,035, or 96% received a dental examination. This spring
753 children will graduate to Kindergarten.
The progress and the outcomes of all students in our program
gives us the percent of growth or mastery that a student made
from the time they entered the program this school year to
the end of this school year as follows: in language the
students went from 42.20% mastery to 65.50% by the end of
the school year, literacy they went from 34.10% mastery to
59.11% mastery, mathematics from 38.00% mastery to
62.78%, science from 28.27% mastery to 52.90% mastery,
creative arts from 23.91% mastery to 52.29% mastery, social
and emotional developmental from 52.46% mastery to
76.22%, approaches to learning 50.10% to 73.94%, physical
health and developmental from 55.41% to 76.16% mastery.
These scores include all children
enrolled in the program, whether
they are a graduate or not. Overall
it has been a very successful
school year for us and we look
forward to continuing to work
with children and their families
throughout the year.
Page 9
FY 2015-2016
Oak Grove Community
Making giant bubbles with YMCA volunteers
at Oak Grove Community Center
Mathis Brothers and Lady Americana donated mattress sets and
children’s beds to Oak Grove residents
Tutors with the STAAR Foundation
help children work on their reading skills.
I Can Open Your Eyes
Take You Wonder By Wonder
Time for the school-agers to go to school.
Oak Grove’s school-agers are bused to
Rockwood Elementary just up the street.
Children from Oak Grove visit the Oklahoma Firefighter Museum
Page 10
Attorneys Pam Bennett and Robert Sheets with the Oklahoma County Bar Association are Carver Mark Twain’s Reading Buddies.
They come read to the children every month.
Hold your breath it gets better!
While children in our Rockwood Head Start/Pre-K classroom
have an under the sea adventure.
Teachers and students read together
at Our Spot.
Smiley O’Rielly from Dental Depot
visits Carver Mark Twain.
Unbelievable Sights
Indescribable Feelings
Page 11
FY 2015-2016
Early Head Start/Child Care Partnership
A Whole New World
A New Fantastic Point of View
Center Time at Ruth Dropkin
Puzzles at West Oak
What can we get into?
This year we opened ten (10) Early Head Start/Child
Care Partnership classrooms at five (5) sites: Avery,
Kiddie Village, Oak Grove, Ruth Dropkin, and West
Oak. Our Early Head Start/Child Care Partnership has
served 102 children aged 6 weeks through their third
birthday, when they transition into traditional Head
Start.
Story Time at Oak Grove
Page 12
2016 Honored Retirees
In March of 2016 Dr. Walt Davis, the Mental Health and Disabilities Specialist,
retired from Community Action Agency. Over the course of his twenty-one year
tenure with the agency Dr. Davis worked with thousands of children from across
Oklahoma and Canadian counties. He met with families, center staff, and
specialists to ensure that the needs of each and every child enrolled in the agency
were being met and to work toward moving to the next level. Helping children is
Dr. Davis’ passion and we at Head Start are very fortunate to have had the great
fortune of having him as a part of our family. Thank you and good luck to you on
your continuing journey!
Willie Watley was born December 17, 1917 in Vernon, Oklahoma. He was
born to a large family that included five sisters and four brothers. He is the only
surviving sibling. His dad was a pastor at a small Baptist church in Vernon,
Oklahoma where he was baptized. This influenced him to become a Deacon at
the Church of Living God. Mr. Watley’s Dad composed music and wrote
several songs. He was married to Mary Bell Scott over 50 years until she
succumbed to cancer. Together they had five boys and three girls. Three of his
children have passed away. Mr. Watley has previously worked at Tinker Field
and Kennedy School, and retired from Macklanburg Duncan before becoming
an employee with Community Action Agency. Mr. Watley is quoted as saying,
“I love my job,” and “If you don’t work you don’t eat.” His favorite saying is
“Everybody is somebody.” Mr. Sconzo has acknowledged Mr. Watley as one
of the oldest and best employees who has worked in the Agency. Mr. Watley
worked in the Agency for over twenty four years. Mr. Watley has recently
retired and still maintains a positive attitude.
Dr. Davis and Mr.
Watley are done,
but we’ve
only just begun!
Page 13
Drug/Alcohol Division
FY 2015-2016
The Story of Latosha Turner
This story comes from a child of God who has been molested, beaten and abused. At the age of 17, I began
selling drugs. I also got pregnant and caught my first case. The sentence was deferred, and I had my son at
18. My sister died at 19, her children were put in the system. I had my second son at 19; I was still using marijuana and popping pills. I began using PCP, along with other jobs I was selling drugs. I got my first apartment, but it began to be a party and dope selling house. I caught a case for possession at that time; I was given
a second deferred sentence and moved into another place. At age 25 I began selling huge amounts of marijuana and crack cocaine. The more drugs I sold the worse my using became. I started to feel like I was beating
the system so my using was getting out of control. I got busted again and did five (5) months in the county
jail. When I got out I tried to get my life together, but old friends started coming around and I began to use
again and picked up drinking as a new habit. At age 26 I had my third son. I was still using and hustling. My
sister, the oldest, died at 30. I took on her 8 children plus my 3 and the financial stress caused me to once
again sell drugs. I felt like my using was keeping me calm serene. I got married thinking it was perfect but it
was not. We were both using and selling drugs. I then picked up a gambling addiction. At age 38 got busted
again, I fought the case for 2 years, then sentenced to 12 year balance of suspension. After 1 year in prison at
The Eddie Warriors Correction Center, I moved to Sober Living Providence Apartments. Right now I am still
in recovery I have been clean 3 yrs. and currently doing NA and AA meetings. I have a wonderful counselor
at Sober Living Providence, Her name is Reva Coby. She has been there for me through all my problems and I
can talk to her about anything. I am striving through progression in sobriety for myself and my son. My son is
doing great here, he makes straight A’s and B’s. He also
plays football and runs track. I am extremely thankful
that Sober Living Providence Apartments has given me
a second chance to turn my life around. Providence
(Sober Living) provides a safe place to live and a home
that takes away the stress that caused me to use. It also
gives me the ability to concentrate on my serious health
issues, for that I thank God. This is my truth and my
testimony.
Latosha Turner
Page 14
Community Services Division
The Community Services Division provided more than 7,123 units of service to the residents in Oklahoma and
Canadian counties. The division’s CSBG budget of $1,340,355 pays rent, utilities and staff salaries. The
division’s extensive interaction with other social services agencies provides strong relationships and resources
for the community. The following services are available through our district Centers.
Christmas Assistance
Emergency Services
Graffiti Removal
Neighborhood Activities
Senior Employment Training
Senior Transportation
Rx for Oklahoma
Rental Assistance
Volunteer Income Tax Preparation
Emergency Transportation
Senior Activities
Youth Program
Garden Seeds
Summer Cooling
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
There were three locations for volunteer Tax preparation services: El Reno office, Metro Tech, and CAA
(Central Office). These sites were manned by staff and volunteers.
The volunteer Income tax Assistance Program
served 2,670 families with free tax preparation.
The total amount of Federal Tax refunds were
$4,560,499.
Sharon Craig is one of our most valued tax volunteers.
She has years of tax preparation experience and is
always willing to assist our clients during tax season.
Page 15
FY 2015-2016
“RX for Oklahoma” Region 5
RX for Oklahoma Prescription Assistance
Program helps low-income and uninsured clients
receive medication prescribed by their doctor.
We serve 11 counties in Oklahoma. Staff assists
clients at three locations in Oklahoma City: Opens
Arms Clinic, Crossing Community Clinic and
Central Office. The program assisted 501 new
clients. There were 5128 new claims from July
2015 to March 2016.
Angie Osborne RX Coordinator and Mercedes LaCue
Center Director represented our agency at the
“Senior Awareness Day” in March 2016.
Summer Cooling Program
The Summer Cooling Program received 135 fans
from OG&E, 53 fans Great Plains of Coca Cola
and 107 fans from various businesses in the
El Reno/Canadian County district. These fans
were used to assist families and seniors during the
summer in 2015. Fans were distributed to all seven of our Community Services District
Centers.
Page 16
Summer Bash
The Community Services Division held their Summer
Bash on Friday, July 24th, 2015 at our Northeast District
Center. The children enjoyed many different activities
which included games such as mini golf, Musical
Chairs, cup cake walk, basketball hoops, and a duck
pond. Lunch was served by our agency, volunteers and
B&B Catering.
The kids really enjoyed the popcorn!
Page 17
FY 2015-2016
Senior Transportation
Community Action Agency has a contract with EMBARK
systems which allows us to provide free transportation for
senior citizens. They are able to go to congregate meal
sites, get their grocery shopping done, attend medical
appointments and visit with other seniors. Our drivers
transport seniors in the Moore/Southwest OKC area,
Midwest City/ Del City, Northeast OKC/Spencer, Capitol
Hill/Central South OKC, and the Northwest quadrant of the
city. These buses are handicap accessible, which makes it
easier for seniors to enter and exit the vehicles, with the
supervision of our safe and courteous bus drivers.
Page 18
Special Projects Division
Making Housing Affordable for Our Community
The Special Projects Division is committed to providing safe, secure, and affordable housing to the citizens
of our community. We offer several programs to aid in the accomplishment of our mission including: Down
Payment and Closing Cost Assistance; Home Buyer Education Workshops; Housing Counseling, as well as
Acquisition and Rehabilitation of Single-Family Homes for both rental and resale.
Acquisition Rehabilitation
The Single Family Acquisition and Rehabilitation program occurs through grants provided by the Oklahoma
Housing Finance Agency. We purchase homes, rehabilitate them to bring them up to FHA standards, and
lease to income-eligible families. Special Projects continues to provide affordable housing to families in our
community.
This year we purchased three homes
for rehab and rental, two in Midwest
City and one in El Reno.
The first home located at 8901 NE 12th
St., Midwest City was finished in the
fall of 2015 and leased to a very
deserving family.
The next beautiful, 3 bed, 1.5 bath,
2 car garage home also includes a new
storm shelter accessed in the garage.
This spacious home on a corner lot is
located at 223 W. Shadywood Dr.,
Midwest City and is to be finished this
May and will be a blessing to a
new tenant.
Page 19
FY 2015-2016
Our most recent project at
2449 Stone Glen Dr., El Reno, is due
to be completed in May and will be
leased for June 2016 occupancy. This
home includes 3 bedrooms, 2 baths,
2 car garage, and a newly installed storm
shelter accessible in the garage.
We are always taking rental applications so pass the word if you know an interested family!
Home Buyer Program
Special Projects also assists income-eligible families with the purchase of a home. Families who meet income
guidelines set by HUD can qualify for a mortgage and receive up to $14,999 in down payment and closing cost
assistance! The home must be located within areas where funds are available. The home must pass CAAOKC
Housing Quality Inspection, and the homebuyer must attend a Homebuyer Education Workshop. The
homebuyer has to agree to live in the home for five years, and after that time, assistance is completely
forgiven.
Between April 1, 2015 and March 31, 2016 we provided
$514,538 to help 41 households become homeowners!
“Home Ownership Is Possible – Just Have to Trust the Process”
One of our most recent client success stories is that of Ms. Bledsoe-Mitchell. She was anxious to share her story with us:
“I just wanted to say how grateful I am for Community Action’s Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance
Program. I really don’t know if I would have ever been a homeowner without it. Everyone was so helpful in
taking me through the process. Their professionalism and kindness encouraged me in times when I would get a
little down wondering if my credit would keep me from getting a home loan. But I had a great loan officer and
Realtor who had worked for many years assisting low income individuals attain the American Dream. I want
to thank Elaine Squires (Admin Asst./Homebuyer Education Trainer) and Alejandra Martinez (Housing
Counselor) at Community Action who along with my Loan Officer and Realtor walked me through the
program step-by-step until I got my keys to a house in a great neighborhood. My mortgage payment is very
affordable and I just love my house. So I would say to anyone who may question whether they may qualify to
just step out on faith and believe. Home ownership is possible when you have people like them assisting you.
May God bless each and everyone who had a part in helping me obtain the American Dream.”
Page 20
(Left) Alejandra Martinez, CAA Housing Counselor.
(Right) Ms. Bledsoe-Mitchell
Ms. Bledsoe-Mitchell
Homebuyer Education Workshops
Special Projects offers a FREE HUD-certified
Homebuyer Education Workshops monthly.
Since April of 2015 we have had 199 potential
homebuyers attend our workshop! Research shows
that home-buyers who attend a workshop and/or
have Housing Counseling prior to purchasing a
home are more likely to maintain homeownership.
Our workshop covers all the basics for purchasing
and owning a home including Shopping with a
Realtor, Financing Your Home, Homeowner’s
Insurance, Inspecting the Home, Fair Housing
Practices, Living on a Budget, and Understanding
Credit.
Homebuyer Education Class
Words of Thanks from Recent Workshop Attendee
“I went to your Homebuyer Education Workshop and I had to let you know how thankful I am for what you
do. The information was priceless and the staff was so supportive! Thank you for doing this class and making
it available to everyone!” ~ Ms. Washington
2016 Workshop Schedule for Remainder of 2016
June 10th & 24th
September 16th & 30th
July 15th & 29th
October 14th & 28th
August 12th & 26th
November 18th
Call 405-232-0199 extension #3201 for details
Page 21
December 9th
FY 2015-2016
Welcome Our New Special Projects Director, Deborah Gage
Deborah Gage came to Community Action as Director of Special
Projects in March of 2016. She comes to the agency with an extensive
business and management education background. She has 25 years real
estate industry experience including mortgage banking, real estate
listing and sales, mortgagee compliance, and extensive commercial and
residential property management knowledge and experience. But more
importantly she loves helping deserving clients secure quality, safe, and
affordable homes.
Results-Oriented Management and
Accountability “ROMA”
Special Projects is the home of the Agency’s
ROMA compliance! Required by the
Oklahoma Department of Commerce, ROMA is an
integral part of Agency operations. Many believe that ROMA is mainly about our CAPTAIN numbers, but that is only a small part of
what it means to be ROMA
compliant. ROMA involves seeing each client as a
client of the Agency, not simply our
division, and encourages the bundling of
services between programs to best meet the needs
of the families in our community.
ROMA also means that we will continue to use
our CAPTAIN numbers to assess our results
and determine the direction of the Agency. This is why it is vital to get accurate results
in CAPTAIN, so that we can show others the
results of the good work we do every day!
You will be hearing more about what ROMA
means to Agency operations.
Page 22
Housing/Maintenance Division
EMERGENCY HOME REPAIR
The program is funded by the City of Oklahoma City utilizing Community Development Block Grant funds.
Objectives of the program are to provide repairs for qualified homeowners in targeted areas of Oklahoma City.
All repairs are to constitute a health or safety issue for people residing in the home. Roof replacement,
electrical being brought to code, central heat installation, emergency plumbing repairs and carpentry repairs
such as installing new bathroom floor and handicap assessable bathrooms, installation of handicap ramp and
other health or safety repairs are provided. The department has received added guidelines recently requiring
historical and environmental reviews on each home. Contract plumbers, electricians, heating and roofing
contractors are utilized as well as in house carpentry. Ninety-nine (99) households received assistance,
consisting of one hundred thirty one (131) emergency repairs completed over the past year.
HWT installed
by contractor
Complete roof replacement
completed by contract roofers
Sewer line replacement
completed by contract plumber
Page 23
Staff building
handicap ramp
FY 2015-2016
WEATHERIZATION
The program is funded through the Oklahoma Department of Commerce utilizing Department of Energy and
Department of Human Service (LIHEAP) funding. Weatherization activities include attic and wall insulation,
air sealing, duct sealing, door and window replacement when required and recommended by the National
Energy Audit (NEAT) or Mobile Home Energy Audit (MHEA). Health and safety concerns are addressed as
allowed by the program. Carbon monoxide is monitored on each home. Weatherization completed eighty one
(81) homes during the past year.
New central heat unit
installed by weatherization
central heat. contractor
New front door
installed by
weatherization contractor
MAINTENANCE
The department carries the responsibility of ensuring all Agency buildings, vehicles and grounds are
maintained and meet all fire and health/safety requirements. Playground equipment requires installation of
impact materials several times per year. Keeping the numerous buildings and vehicles in compliance and
proper operating conditions require the service of full time staff and contractors to perform services requiring
licensed trades.
Maintenance staff
installs water diverter
Maintenance staff
placing woodchips on
Head Start playground
Valley Brook Head Start receiving a new
coat of paint completed by
maintenance staff
Page 24
Economic Development Division
Business Development
I would like to take this time to thank you and your
wonderful team for assisting me with my loan process through Community Action Agency. You and
your team have not only secured me with a productive business loan but it has also allowed me to employ many others. My new location now employs
14 full time staff members and our capacity has increased 60 percent since the purchase of the business in November 2015. You assisted me with the
loan process from the beginning to the end. You answered all my calls and emails in a timely manner as
well as calling me on a regular basis to update me
on the status of the loan. Again, I say “thank you”
from me and the RBC staff to you Bonnie, Myeshia
and your staff for making this journey a pleasurable
one.
-Priscilla Orange Director/Owner
Page 25
FY 2015-2016
Business Development
Bu
Mim’s Bakery & Nosh
Mim’s Bakery was founded by
chefs Samuel and Emily Perry in
2013 as a catering company and
retail bakery, with the goal of
providing high quality vegan treats
to diners in the Oklahoma City
area. In 2015, they launched the Mim's
Bakery & Nosh food truck
and moved all of their operations
from a rented kitchen space into
their very own customized mobile kitchen. Everything produced in
the
Mim's kitchen is completely
free of
animal products of any kind, without
sacrificing taste or
quality.
Small Business Training
The Small Business Series was
a great investment. It provided
me not only with the necessary
resources, but also provided an
opportunity of networking
between my peers. The class is
great for anyone who would
like to start a business or
already started a business that
needs further guidance. –
Fachaitte Kinslow,
Entrepreneur
Page 26
Green Home Loan-Energy Efficient Home Improvements
Before
Energy Efficient Cool Roof Replacement
After
“Having purchased a 1950’s home several years ago, I knew at some point I’d have to replace the HVAC
system and upgrade the limited insulation in my attic, but I’d hoped my home warranty would cover
replacement costs. Luckily, I found the Green Home Loan Program, which offered a low fixed interest rate
on a four-year repayment schedule. The program allowed removing the old system from under the house
(duct work and all) and installing the new one in the attic with added insulation. Our house has been
amazingly comfortable during some of OKC’s extreme summer temperatures.”
Sean Danley, Homeowner
Page 27
FY 2015-2016
Individual Development Account (IDA) Matched Savings
Two (2) Financial Education Classes were offered through Oklahoma Money Matters. Eighteen
(18) IDA Clients completed the class and the times were from 8:30 to 3:30. The topics covered in
training included Money Management, Obstacles/Resources/ and Attitude about Money, How To
Find Money To Save, Financial Recovery, and To Your Credit, Things You Need to Know About
Purchasing A Home, Spending Plans/Expenses Tracking, and Identity Theft Prevention.
“The Financial Education course was
helpful in knowing the facts and a clear view
of how to accomplish a positive end result.”
“It was helpful talking about how to
manage money and save. I would strongly
recommend the course to others.”
Page 28
Individual Development Account (IDA) Matched Savings
“Owning my own home is a dream that came
true.” -Serafin Silva
“I am writing this letter as a humble note of
appreciation for the quality service provided by your
office Community Action, Myeshia Williams. Thank
you very much for the help you gave me. I was able
to purchase my first home. I know how busy you
are, so I really appreciate the time you spent with
me. I'm loving the house and making it my own.
Community Action will never know how proud I am
of myself for making the step and you guys being
there to help me complete my goal.
Thank you so much!”
- Kim and Kylen Johnson
“Everything is going good I have 4 loads booked. I'm working one right now. Thanks for all the help.
It was a little bit of a struggle for me this past year. I went through a lot but thanks for all the help.
You personally, and the Community Action has been a great blessing. Thanks again and again.”
-RaMeek Dixon (Logistics Kings)
Page 29
FY 2015-2016
These are just a few of the many Community Partners the Agency would like to
thank for their support and collaboration. Your partnerships allow us to better
serve the members of our communities.
American Red Cross
Archdiocese of Oklahoma City
Avery Chapel Methodist Church
Bank of Oklahoma
Community Abundant Life Church
Community Enhancement Corporation
Crossings Community Center & Clinic
Diagnostic Laboratories of Oklahoma
Dr. Eric Eakers
Dr. Wallace McLeod
Effective Communications, Inc.
Hearts for Hearing
Historic Capitol Hill
Inasmuch Foundation
Metro Technology Centers
Mid-Del Food Pantry
Midfirst Bank
Neighborhood Alliance
Oklahoma City Fire Department
Oklahoma City Police Department
Oklahoma City Public Schools
Oklahoma Department of Human Services
Open Arms Clinic
Plainview Baptist Church
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma
Saint Luke Baptist Church
Salvation Army
St. John Missionary Baptist Church
Sunbeam Family Services
University of Central Oklahoma
Page 30
MISSION STATEMENT
In partnership with the Community, the mission of the
Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma/
Canadian Counties, Inc., is to promote the self-sufficiency of
the socially, economically, and culturally disadvantaged citizens of Oklahoma and Canadian Counties and to eliminate the
paradox of poverty among these citizens by opening to everyone the opportunity to work; to live in decency, dignity, and
worth; and to secure the opportunities needed to become fully
self-sufficient.
Annual Report
April 1, 2015 — March 31, 2016
Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City
and Oklahoma/Canadian Counties, Inc.
319 S.W. 25th Street - Oklahoma City, OK 73109
Phone: 405-232-0199 Fax: 405-232-9074
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.caaofokc.org