8.61% of Cobb County’s residents live below the poverty line, and in some of Cobb’s census tracts, that number is as high as 34% (Fair Oaks). Circles® Cobb addresses poverty in our community by applying Circles® USA’s proven model of working alongside individuals who want to become financially stable. Through this program, eight Circle participants have mapped out how to improve their finances, education, career path, and lives. On Thursday evening, they will graduate from the Circles® Cobb initial 12-week training program that focuses on developing individual strengths, financial literacy, budgeting, and setting SMART goals.
The programs’ graduates have undergone a transformative journey in their approach to budgets and spending. They now adopt a fixed spending mindset, prioritize saving, and goal-setting.
Graduates have been matched with two volunteer allies who will walk alongside them on their road to financial stability, sharing encouragement, accountability, and social capital. Edna, a current program graduate, shared, “Those of us in poverty tend to try and fix it ourselves, where someone in the middle or upper classes knows who to talk to for help.”
Helping participants (called “Circle Leaders”) make meaningful connections in their local community is one of the many reasons Circles® Cobb’s program outcomes are so positive. Data from 80+ Circles chapters throughout North America shows that after 18 months, participants increase their income by 75% on average. The graduating class has already seen rising incomes and more stable housing, instilling hope for Circle leaders and their families.
Executive Director Barbara Garner is excited to see what the future holds for this first class. “This amazing group of ladies inspires us each week with their strength and resilience. These leaders have been through so much but are determined to create a better future for their families. Together, we’ve created a circle of community that truly cares for one another and pushes one another to make dreams a reality. Introducing Allies into this circle will help accelerate that growth and progress. Through Circles, lives are being transformed.”
The mission of Circles Cobb is building community to end poverty through intentional friendships, personal transformation, and systemic change led by the people closest to the challenge. Our vision is that all individuals live in equitable, thriving communities where poverty no longer exists.
If you would like to join the Circles Cobb initiative of building community to end poverty, please visit www.CirclesCobb.org.
