CALV Annual Report 2023-2024

community Action in community, we find unity ANNUAL report 2023 | 2024

ABOUT Community Action Lehigh Valley is an anti-poverty nonprofit serving

L E T T ER F R O M T HE E X EC U T I V E D IR EC T O R

MISSION The mission of Community Action Lehigh Valley is to improve the

Community Action Lehigh Valley is celebrating 60 years of serving the region and beyond. YES, 60! I am proud to serve as the Executive Director of an agency with such rich history and purpose.

the greater Lehigh Valley through programs focusing on Advocacy, Business Start-Up and Development, Food Access and Nutrition, Housing, Neighborhood Revitalization, and Youth.

quality of life in the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas by building communities in which all people have access to economic opportunity, the ability to pursue that opportunity, and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

HISTORY Community Action Agencies are private nonprofit or public organizations whose development was encouraged by the federal government in 1964 to combat poverty in their local communities. CALV is part of the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania network

60 years of serving the region Community Action was sparked out of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s “War on Poverty” and from the advocacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 created a network of what is now over 1,000 locally-focused Community Action Agencies across the country, serving mostly low-income populations, but we do so much more! We provide a range of programs and services, including advocacy, business start-up and development, food access and nutrition, housing, neighborhood revitalization, and youth programs. Our mission is to ensure that all people have access to economic opportunity and a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

We recognize that our strength lies in our connections with other nonprofit partners within the region and the thousands of people to whom we’re able to provide services. These relationships are not just beneficial, they are vital for us, our partners, and the participants we serve across our 13 programs.

By working hand-in-hand with our partners, we are creating a cohesive network of support that is far stronger than the sum of its parts. This collaborative spirit allows us to share resources, insights, and strategies, creating a more resilient and innovative community. Together, we can address the multifaceted challenges faced by our participants more effectively, ensuring that their needs are met with compassion and comprehensive care.

In this current climate of discord, unity seems like a foreign word, and its pursuit can feel daunting—yet it is essential. Nonprofit organizations, by nature, embody the spirit of community and collaboration. When they come together, they create a tapestry of support, compassion, and action that transcends individual efforts.

Our Programs & Subsidiaries 7

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NEIGHBOORHOOD REVITALIZATION

Slate Belt Rising Community Action Development Bethlehem Community Action Development Allentown

25 YOUTH PAGE

Generation Next SHE

15 HOUSING

29 FOOD ACCESS & NUTRITION

23 BUSINESS START-UP & DEVELOPMENT

33 ADVOCACY

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Community Action Homes Weatherization Housing Counseling Sixth Street Shelter

Rising Tide Community Loan Fund

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Second Harvest Food Bank The Seed Farm

Mental Health Initiative

Harry Truman once said, ‘It is amazing what can be accomplished when nobody cares who gets the credit.’

This profound insight underscores the transformative power of selflessness and shared goals.

Unity requires a collective commitment to a common purpose beyond personal accolades.

By pooling resources, expertise, and networks, organizations can maximize their impact, fostering innovation and tackling complex issues with creativity and resilience.

For example, one of our recent participants, a local man and his mother, both living with disabilities, needed about $50,000 in repairs to their home. Without it, they would not have been able to stay. CALV combined Whole Home funding, the City of Allentown’s Healthy Homes funding, and support from Habitat for Humanity to provide the assistance they needed. None of us could do it alone, but all of us were able to do it together.

As we celebrate 60 years of service, we are reminded that our strength lies in unity and collaboration. By working together with our partners and the community, we can continue to create a resilient and compassionate Lehigh Valley. Whether you're a funder, a nonprofit partner, or seeking assistance, we invite you to join us in our mission.

Together, we can make a lasting impact, drive meaningful change, and overcome social challenges. In community, we find strength.

In community, we find unity.

Dawn Godshall Executive Director, Community Action Lehigh Valley A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 3 -2 0 2 4

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Board of Directors

2023 – 2024 Financial statement

revenue revenue

PRIVATE FEDERAL STATE PRIVATE LOCAL FEDERAL STATE LOCAL

Lou Cinquino President Hilda Cruz Vice President

(dollar amount and percent) $10,399,409 42% (dollar amount and percent) $10,171,659 41% $2,943,884 $10,399,409 $1,157,993 $10,171,659 $2,943,884 $24,672,945 $1,157,993

12% 42% 5% 41% 12% 100% 5%

$24,672,945

100%

FOOD CONTRIBUTIONS: $26,708,596

Linda Faust Secretary

expenses expenses

Jon Schwartz Treasurer Winston Alozie Anna Barbosa Wayne Barz Karen Beck Pooley Sandra Bieber Zachary Cole-Borghi Lidia Gonzalez Tomika Gould Justin Grimshaw Jack Gross Mark Hartney Michael Perry Nicole Pietrzak Shalanda Riddick Crystal Rose Joseph Roy Stephanie Steele Robert Vidoni Betty Wagner

ADMIN/FUNDRAISING DIRECT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM COSTS ADMIN/FUNDRAISING DIRECT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM COSTS

(dollar amount and percent) (dollar amount and21% percent) $5,602,797

$2,403,717 $19,043,344 $5,602,797 $2,403,717 $27,049,858 $19,043,344

DISTRIBUTED FOOD: $25,039,658 $27,049,858

9% 70% 21% 9% 100% 70% 100%

* In comparison to the previous fiscal year, our figures have declined due to higher revenues in previous years, a substantial increase in food costs, the expiration of COVID relief funds, and several additional factors. We are currently utilizing the surplus funds from earlier periods, as new revenue continues to come in.

These unaudited figures include revenues from Community Action’s subsidiary nonprofit community development corporations as well as the value of food we distribute through Second Harvest Food Bank.

Our audit was conducted by Clifton Larson Allen. Our audited financial statements can be obtained at communityactionlv.org A copy of the official registration and financial information for Community Action may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling, toll-free, within Pennsylvania, 1-800-732-0999.

Registration does not imply endorsement.

Layout & Design: Working Dog Press Photography: Marco Calderon Photography, Morning Call

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neighborhood revitalization A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 3 -2 0 2 4

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Slate Belt Rising SlateBeltRising.org, @SlateBeltRising

Slate Belt Rising (SBR) is a neighborhood revitalization initiative designed to integrate and capitalize on the substantial assets of the individual Slate Belt communities.

By leveraging the unique history, architecture, and culture of each municipality into a regional approach, SBR will use a Neighborhood Partnership Plan to foster comprehensive community and economic development. While SBR specifically targets the boroughs of Bangor, Wind Gap, Pen Argyl, and Portland, some initiatives promote development and the coordination of services for the entire region.

Meet John from Broadway Games: Rebuilding with Determination 11 S Main Street, Bangor

Provided Financial Assistance to Local Businesses:

Launched the Lead-Free Homes Program:

Completed Commercial Facade Projects:

Supported 4 businesses through our Commercial Lease Subsidy Program, helping them establish a lasting presence in the community.

In partnership with Northampton County and Community Action Homes, initiated the first-of-its-kind program in East Bangor Borough to test homes for lead hazards, including plumbing, paint, and other areas.

Finished a facade improvement project at the Slate Belt Heritage Center, with ongoing projects at the Bangor Public Library, 26 Market St. in Bangor, and the Portland Railroad Depot in Portland Borough.

Conducted the 2024 Slate Belt Annual Cleanup:

Awarded Scholarships:

Promoted Local Businesses:

Organized 7 teams of volunteers across seven municipalities to collect litter, with over 100 volunteers participating in the event.

Granted 6 scholarships to high school students in the Bangor and Pen Argyl School Districts, supporting the next generation of leaders in our community.

Collaborated with the Slate Belt Chamber of Commerce on Slate Belt Restaurant Week and a Slate Belt Gift Certificate Program to drive traffic to local businesses.

Completed a Mural Project in Pen Argyl:

Sponsored Regional Events:

Developing the Slate Belt Heritage & Art Trail:

Added a vibrant new mural to Pen Argyl, enhancing the town’s visual appeal and celebrating local culture.

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Provided financial support for several regional events throughout the Slate Belt, including the highly successful Quarry Bites & Brews events in Bangor Borough for the second consecutive year.

Currently working on the creation of this trail to boost tourism and help visitors and residents discover public art installations and local landmarks across the region.

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John has been a board game enthusiast since childhood, and when he and his business partner found the chance to open Broadway Games in Bangor, they jumped at it. Their store became a community hub for board games, card games, and more. But after two years, disaster struck in 2023—a fire from an upstairs apartment caused massive damage, leaving the store condemned and destroying over $1,000,000 worth of inventory. Due to an insurance oversight, only a small portion of the damage was covered.

Despite this setback, John was determined to stay in the Slate Belt area. By chance, he found an abandoned American Legion building for lease. The owner agreed to renovate it, setting the stage for the new Broadway Games location. Soon after, John discovered the Slate Belt Rising Commercial Subsidy Lease program, which provided crucial financial support during the transition.

John stated the program was incredible for him. It granted him financial freedom as he set up his new store after the devastating loss and allowed him not to stress about paying his two employees that help greatly when it comes to running and setting up the store. John said, “It’s not just the money, it's having the help and the support from the town level. Brian was right in the local offices. So any questions you have, about signage or how to get permits and everything else, I found out about those processes from him.”

Broadway Games isn’t just about games; it’s about community. “It's great because we have kids who will come in and play a Disney game, and we have their parents coming in playing Magic, which is the same game they've been playing since the mid 90s. We’ll have teenagers at a table playing a game with 50 year olds, and everybody is getting along. It's really a beautiful thing; games cross generations and fosters interaction. You're sitting at a table with one to six people, and you're having conversations.”

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@cadc_bethlehem

Since 1998, Community Action Development Bethlehem has advanced a neighborhood-based vision of community and economic development that builds on the strengths and assets of our diverse community. CADB’s signature program Southside Tomorrow focuses on promoting Housing Affordability and Quality, improving Communication and Connectivity, and supporting Public and Green Spaces in south Bethlehem. CADB is also a partner in the Pembroke Choice Neighborhoods planning process, the Alley House Project in west Bethlehem, and the Northside Alive neighborhood initiative.

A native of south Bethlehem, Angela Mitchell had spent years living and working in New York City, but a 2010 fire in her apartment building left her experiencing homelessness. Shortly afterward, she was diagnosed with a disability that prevented her from driving and working outside her home, and Angela moved back to south Bethlehem to start building a new life with support from family. In 2012, after taking Community Action’s First-Time Homebuyer Seminar, Angela purchased a historic home on Cherokee Street in south Bethlehem. But by August 2018, she was struggling to take care of her large Victorian home with the income from her disability check. A long list of home improvement projects had piled up, and the demands of the large house weighed on Angela’s mind.

Our successes and achievements from the last year: • Connected over 128 Bethlehem residents to

• Supported the ongoing work of the Southside Ambassadors in the Four Blocks International area

• Engaged 111 south Bethlehem residents in

• Held 9 neighborhood cleanups that engaged 80

• Completed 6 residential façade improvements

• Installed a mural on the South Bethlehem Greenway in partnership with two local artists and

community resources

neighborhood meetings

• Supported the launch of the Alley House pilot program • Provided leadership training for the Pembroke Choice Neighborhood community ambassadors

Donegan Elementary School

• Engaged 800 residents at 4 community building events

• Supported the growth of 3 community gardens

• Supported the Kellyn Foundation’s ongoing produce distribution on the Greenway

• Engaged 98 residents through gardening and

• Engaged 56 youth through summer programming at the Lynfield Community Center,

in south Bethlehem

outdoor wellness activities

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residents and business owners

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Angela reached out to Community Action Development Bethlehem for assistance, hoping she wouldn’t have to sell the home that she had worked so hard to buy. Staff helped Angela transform her extra bedrooms into an AirBnb, registering her business, learning to navigate software platforms, and establishing operations procedures and norms for guests. As revenue started to come in, Angela reinvested in making the home improvements she had put off. She installed new doors, electrical upgrades, and improved security, and the additional income covered all her monthly bills.

By 2022, with her income and housing situation stabilized, Angela decided to take a more active role in her neighborhood and community. She began attending City Council meetings and joined the Southside Tomorrow Public and Green Space committee. She started organizing neighbors to advocate for traffic calming measures, more street trees, and better enforcement of trash policies in her neighborhood. In December 2023, Angela organized her first community meeting with the support of CADB staff. Dozens of neighbors attended the meeting, sharing homemade food and neighborhood stories. New friendships among neighbors led to trips to the CADB-supported Martin Luther King, Jr. community garden together, neighborhood cleanups, and plans to plant trees in empty tree wells along Cherokee Street.

Following Angela’s lead, the neighborhood has come alive with civic engagement. Angela is proud of her new role as a Southside neighborhood leader, and through the connections she has made as a part of Southside Tomorrow. We look forward to continuing our work with Angela and her neighbors in the coming year!

Shooting Stars Basketball, and Push Ahead Lehigh Valley

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The mission of Community Action Development Allentown is to elevate and empower residents by actively promoting neighborhood revitalization, which strengthens the neighborhood economy, improves the quality of life and is inclusive of all residents.

y Continued the After Zone initiative in the Allentown School District with programs at various schools: Brigadier General Anna Mae Hays Elementary: Podcasting (13 students) Central Elementary School: Cheerleading (45 students) Bldg21: Flag Football Camp and Tournament (10 students) Trexler Middle School (in collaboration with Fine Feather Foundation): An 8-week afterschool program featuring arts, dance, poetry, podcasting, music, and video production, culminating in a public recital with 65 students participating y Provided technical assistance to 12 student entrepreneurs to help develop their business ideas and secure necessary resources, with support from adult business mentors y Supported 8 youth entrepreneurs at “pop-up” shops to showcase their businesses and provide the opportunity for “revenue” generation y Dedicated “Spirit of Freedom” mural at 31 South 9th Street in collaboration with the Lehigh Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance. The mural concept was created by students from the 2023 summer camp

In 2023-2024 we... y Completed the fourth year of the Allentown’s Core Neighborhood Partnership Program in collaboration with multiple “youth serving” community partners y Completed the purchase of the Cleveland School building from the Allentown School District, designating it as the future site of the new Youth Center. Formed a Capital Campaign Committee, chaired by Dr. Brian Nestor (President of Lehigh Valley Health Network), to lead fundraising efforts Created the initial Youth Center design in collaboration with Meyer Architects to support the capital campaign.

Selected Alvin H. Butz as the Construction Manager, with a focus on demolition, and MKSD Architects to finalize the facility design and oversee the demolition process Awarded $1,000,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds by the City of Allentown for development of the proposed Youth Center

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y Identified three growing nonprofits—Allentown Public Theatre, Cohesion Network, and Fine Feather Foundation—as potential program partners. Supported their contributions to After Zone programming at Allentown School District schools within the target NPP footprint area Collaborated with the Freedom School Partnership to continue the James Lawson Freedom School at 2 sites which collectively enrolled 68 youth and served to mitigate the “summer slide” by utilizing a researched, multicultural, activity-based curriculum y Continued supporting innovative anti-violence efforts led

by Promise Neighborhoods of the Lehigh Valley, with staff responding to over 50 incidents of violence and providing follow-up services and referrals to victims and their families y Partnered with Allentown law enforcement for the 10th year of the Youth Academy, engaging 63 middle school students from the Allentown School District in a 5-week program exploring law enforcement careers, culminating in a graduation ceremony at the Allentown Police Academy

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y Organized a college tour for 25 potential first-generation college students, visiting the University of Maryland – Baltimore, Morgan State, and Howard University. Each tour was led by current students at the respective campuses y Sponsored multiple “college readiness” offerings for high school students, including Summer Bridge Academic Reset Workshop (22 students) College Application & Essay Bootcamp (16 students) SAT Prep for the Gen Next William High School cohort (13 students) College engagement event for first-year matriculating students (50 students) y Partnered with the Fine Feather Foundation and Lehigh Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance to conduct an 8-week summer camp for 65 youth which featured arts, dance, vocal workshops, field trips, podcasting, music and video production and activities at Camp Fowler y Assisted multiple community partners to provide community events and youth activities reaching over 5,000 residents. Events included: High School Basketball Tournaments; Brown, Black and Beyond Teen Summit; 3rd Annual Career Exploration Workshop and the Annual “High Notes Gala” at Americus Hotel which featured musical performances by Allentown School District students

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Community Action Homes BEFORE

BEFORE

BEFORE

AFTER

AFTER

AFTER

1015 W. HAMILTON STREET, ALLENTOWN

Sold one home in Slatington, and one for sale during Summer 2024

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Currently managing the renovation of two additional properties that will be sold upon completion; one in South Bethlehem and one in Allentown

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1125-1127 W. HAMILTON STREET, ALLENTOWN

Coordinated rehabilitation for 40 homes through the Whole Home Repair Program, Lead Abatement, mobility and energy efficiency as well as roofing and HVAC improvements

The Weatherization Program has a team of 10 staff members, including the Director. Among them are four BPI-certified Energy Auditors, three of whom are also certified as BPI Quality Control Inspectors. Additionally, there are two PAcertified Energy Auditors. The office team includes a Weatherization Specialist and three Weatherization Representatives.

1146 W. HAMILTON STREET, ALLENTOWN

Completed 11 façade improvements: five in Allentown, three in Bethlehem and three in the slate belt

Weatherization

Leigh Valley Community Land Trust is in the process of reverting land leases back to the homeowners

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• The Weatherization Program repaired 10 homes with DOE Readiness funds. These 10 homes were deferred from weatherization due to issues ranging from leaking roofs and uncontrolled water infiltration in the basement, to knob and tube wiring that prevented installing insulation due to fire hazard. Once these homes were repaired, they were weatherized using DOE funding • We completed 42 weatherization jobs with our DOE funding.

These homes had a comprehensive audit completed by one of our Energy Auditors and passed a Quality Control Inspection after the weatherization work was completed • Using UGI LIURP funds, we completed 19 weatherization jobs on area homes • With our First Energy WARM funds, CALV’s subcontractors completed 24 weatherization jobs

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• During the LIHEAP Crisis season, CALV’s HVAC subcontractors restored heat to 194 homes in the Lehigh Valley. They also completed clean and tunes on heating systems in 125 area homes, preventing a “no-heat” situation that would trigger a Crisis referral during the Winter months • The LIHEAP Cooling Program is in it’s third year and has grown in popularity every year, helping 73 families during the 2021 season and 159 families during the 2022 season.

This fiscal year which includes some jobs from last Summer and only part of the jobs from this program year, CALV helped 189 families. This includes installing up to 2 Energy Star rated window air conditioners per home, or if the participant has central air conditioning or a heat pump, we can repair or replace the air conditioners if they qualify under the program guidelines. CALV’s HVAC subcontractors installed window air conditioners in 128 homes and repaired or replaced central air conditioners or heat pumps in 61 homes

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Housing Counseling

Best housing counseling Specialist award Our employee Jeanette Velez Rivera, HUD Certified Housing Counselor, received a Best Housing Counseling Specialist Award at the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency’s Housing Counseling Awards Ceremony on October 18, 2023. This is a state-wide award recognizing excellence in Housing Counseling.

The mission of Community Action’s Housing Counseling Program is to provide low-to-moderate income families with a continuum of coordinated services in one location to better meet their housing and consumer credit needs and to build individual and community wealth.

43 families who utilized services through the Housing Counseling Program indicated in Fiscal Year 2024 that they purchased their first home.

y 7 first-time homebuyer seminars were conducted, providing 8 hours of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved education. 214 prospective homebuyers earned a certificate of completion by attending a seminar. 3 seminars were conducted in Spanish and 4 in English. 3 seminars were held virtually, 2 seminars were held in Allentown, and 2 seminars were held in Bethlehem y 55 prospective homebuyers received pre-purchase counseling y 39 homebuyers received pre-settlement counseling y 1 Home Ownership Savings Account Program participant saved over $2,000, earned the $2,000 savings match, and purchased a home. ESSA Bank and Trust partners with HCP on this initiative, which helps families purchase their first home y 2 participants completed a 6-hour Financial Education course that is taught with curriculum developed by the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency y 4 participants utilized the Bethlehem Homebuyer Assistance Program to purchase their first home. In partnership with the City of Bethlehem, this program provides down payment and closing cost assistance in the form of a deferred payment loan to first-time homebuyers who purchase in the City of

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Bethlehem and are at 80% median income or below. The loan is completely forgiven if the homebuyer lives in the home for 10 years. There are 19 participating lenders for the program y 42 financially distressed homeowners received default and delinquency counseling (27 homeowners through Northampton County’s Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program and 15 homeowners through Lehigh County’s Mortgage Foreclosure Diversion Program); 18 households were saved from foreclosure through a loan modification, repayment plan, or rescue funds. Out of the 42 homeowners served through the diversion programs, 12 cases remain under review for potential modifications y 6 delinquent homeowners received Loss Mitigation services.

Our Housing Counselors provided counseling and assisted homeowners in submitting a workout packet to their lender for a loan modification or repayment plan y 37 homeowners received assistance in applying to the Homeowners’ Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program (HEMAP). Our Housing Counselors provided counseling and assisted homeowners in submitting an application to HEMAP y 4 residents of the Ferry Street Transitional Housing Program received rental/financial counseling

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total demographics

sixth street shelter SixthStreetShelter.org, @SixthStreetShelter

T he Sixth Street Shelter

91

128

213

341

Families Adults Children Total

individuals

is a 60- to 90-day short-term transitional

housing and supportive services program for families with children experiencing homelessness.

The Sixth Street Shelter advocates that affordable housing is a human right while helping families secure safe housing through family-centered services, in-house programming, and referrals to community resources.

85

Age 5 and under

Gender

209 Female

(61% of residents identified as female)

32 Male

(39% of residents identified as male)

128 Age 6 and up

Head of household

83 Female

(91% of families had female head of household)

8 Male

(9% of families had male head of household)

from annual scorecard

91 families resided at the Shelter and developed Family Service Plans based on their

housing, educational and financial goals

50% of families saved money toward rent or a security deposit upon leaving the Shelter 75% of families achieved their Family Service Plan goals (i.e., resident meetings, case management meetings, life skills, basic needs, referrals)

The Sixth Street Shelter is the largest family shelter in the Lehigh Valley region, accepting families of any configuration including those with adult children, single fathers, and the LGBTQ+ community.

The Shelter continues to collaborate with essential resources such as Color Outside the Lines, Valley Health Partners

Community Health Center, Provident Bank, Enterprise Mobility Foundation, First Northern Bank and Neighborhood Health Center. Participants in the Shelter are encouraged to prioritize employment training, with an option to focus on Hi-Set - a high school equivalency initiative. In 2025, The Shelter will celebrate forty (40) years of service for families who are unhoused.

100% of families created a written budget to understand credit and money

management as a part of their goal plan

15% of families were referred to CareerLink and obtained services to assist with

vocational development and job search

75% of families achieved their Benchmark Family Care goals Through landlord engagement, we developed a roster of 30 local landlords willing to work with our program participants

The Shelter developed relationships with 30 community landlords 20

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Lizzy of Bubbly Hills Farm, Rising Tide Participant and Seed Farm Incubator Farmer

Rising Tide has financed 260+ small, local businesses with a total of $12.75 million in loans across the Lehigh Valley and beyond!

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Rising Tide Community Loan Fund TheRisingTide.org, @RisingTideCLF J Garden

We made loans to 14 different businesses in 2023-2024. Of these:

8

were made to womanowned businesses

7 loans were made

to businesses owned

by Black, Indigenous, Hispanic, and other communities of color

10 were to businesses

owned by low-to moderate-income individuals and/or located in low-to moderate–income census tracts

Magic Mobile Detailing

Shām Skin Care

Brows by Sandra Muñoz

Rising Tide’s mission is to identify small business and community development credit needs that may stifle the creation of economic opportunities for growth and to meet those needs with affordable business loans.

The Rising Tide Community Loan Fund is a separately incorporated subsidiary of Community Action Lehigh Valley.

As a Community Development Financial Institution, Rising Tide has provided over $625,000 in funding, bringing the total amount disbursed to more than $12.75 million to date.

Businesses that received loans in 2023-2024 were 3 personal care salons, a manufacturer of horse products, a brewery, a cleaning business, a coffee roaster, an event planner, an auto detailer, a childcare center, a restaurant, a paving company, an art retail store and an insurance broker.

• The 14 funded businesses reported the creation or retention of 43 jobs • Secured a 5-year contract with the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts to provide funding and technical assistance to the artistic community within our service area • Provided free of cost marketing services to 47 businesses. Services provided included, but were not limited to, web design, logo design, social media assistance, and the creation of marketing materials • Administered the Lehigh and Northampton Counties Revolving Loan Fund

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GENERATION NEXT

Generation Next is a college readiness, access, and completion program created to correct disparities in education. Our program ensures that students of color, first-generation college students, and/or low-income students have increased access to opportunities that will further their education. The program works with students to achieve college admission, integrate into college life, and complete a post-secondary program or trade focus.

SHE

@SHELehighValley

SHE, an acronym for “self-esteem, health, and education” is a strength-based empowerment program of Community Action Lehigh Valley. The mission of SHE is to create an educational and inspirational environment in which 4th-to-8th grade girls build confidence, are empowered to change the dynamics in their personal relationships and the greater community, and seize control of their futures, ensuring healthy, fulfilling, and self-sufficient lives.

345 students have participated in the Generation Next Program 100% of seniors graduated High School Partnered with 4 schools in the Allentown, Bethlehem, and Easton Area School Districts 12 post High School graduates received Generation Next Tuition Scholarships ranging from $500-$2,000 Curriculum included college application assistance, FAFSA events, SAT Prep, Networking opportunities, resume development, and college exploration Community Guest Speakers from Turning Point discussed healthy relationships to Liberty and Easton students 6 trips were organized during the 2023-2024 academic year including:

Maxine S., 17 years old 2024 Easton Area High School graduate

• Villanova University • Kutztown University • DeSales University • Lehigh University • East Stroudsburg University • Lafayette University

24 students were accepted into college and are attending in Fall of 2024.

Some diverse colleges/universities Generation Next alumni will be attending: • Howard University • University of Vermont • Thomas Jefferson University • Temple University • Moravian University

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• Fairleigh Dickinson University • Townson University • New York University • Northampton Community College

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Students Served: 180

School year review:

Students Served by District:

Curriculum Highlights • Women in STEAM • Environmental Science • Healthy & unhealthy relationship resources • Cooking healthy meals/snacks & kitchen safety • Body positivity & self-esteem • Mental health awareness & coping skills

Middle School students = 140 Elementary students = 40

Allentown School District = 77

Harrison-Morton Middle School 6th grade = 25 | 7th grade = 32 | 8th grade = 20

Bethlehem Area School District = 103

Broughal Middle School = 63 6th grade = 25 | 7th grade = 20 | 8th grade = 18

Donegan Elementary School = 18

3rd grade = 3 | 4th grade = 7 | 5th grade = 8

Fountain Hill Elementary School = 11 5th grade = 11 Lincoln Elementary School = 11 3rd grade = 1 | 4th grade = 8 | 5th grade = 2

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Guest Speakers from: • CIS Community In Schools • LUAG Lehigh University Art Galleries • Wildlands Conservancy • Turning Point of the Lehigh Valley • Second Harvest Food Bank-Cooking Matters • Whispering Beauty Salon • Community Voices Mental Health Clinic • Girl’s Unstoppable Founder Student Trips • Wildlands Conservancy nature walk & environmental activities • SHE’s Unstoppable Assembly • Lehigh University • 8th grade Hair Love Workshop

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Over one year, we distributed 13 million+ meals across our six county service area.

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Second Harvest Food Bank works to eliminate food insecurity by providing nutritious food to those in need, dismantling access barriers, and advocating for health and racial equity. Our programs provide children, seniors and families with fresh and nutritious groceries. We also provide training and access to land for new and emerging farmers at The Seed Farm, help people enroll to receive SNAP benefits and administer supplemental nutrition programs for seniors and military families. It is our mission to obtain food and distribute it to people in need through area non-profits, and to provide resources for education and advocacy to end hunger.

SHFBLV.org, @SecondHarvestLV

The Seed Farm TheSeedFarm.org, @TheSeedFarm

As a program of Second Harvest Food Bank, The Seed Farm works to support food production at all levels, from home gardeners to community gardens to local farmers. Strong local food systems equal food security.

impact stats: 15.9 million pounds of food distributed

13,219,733 meals distributed across the

6 counties serving residents in Lehigh,

service area

Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Pike, and Wayne

29,100+ boxes of nutritious food distributed to low-income

More than 500 military families participating in our

seniors through the PA Senior Food Box Program

MilitaryShare food box program per month

On average, we provided food to 89,300+ individuals monthly during the fiscal year,

Blackbird Farms

6.8 million pounds fresh produce, perishable protein, and fresh dairy products distributed

Volunteer hours: 4,639

including 24,100+ children and 14,000+ seniors

impact stats: 6 beginning farmers

8.3 acres leased to Incubator farmers

continued in the Farm Business Incubator

1 beginning farmer launched a new farm business at

Incubator farmers spent 86 hours using our tractors and equipment

5 educational workshops with

24 technical assistance visits to

The Seed Farm

18,000+ organicallygrown transplants sold at our Fall &

Spring Plant Sales

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in community, we find unity

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2700+ transplants given to 14 community groups who

6 guest trainers and 75 total attendees

Sistah Seeds

At our agricultural business incubator, we provide beginning farmers with affordable access to land, infrastructure, equipment, technical assistance, and more, so that they can start their farm businesses. Our Growing Partners raised bed program increases access to nutritious, fresh foods for neighbors in low-income urban environments and provides opportunities to grow food and gain gardening confidence.

Through our Farm to Pantry program, The Seed Farm grows and harvests high-demand produce for the Food Bank.

6 food pantry gardens

provide fresh food to those in need

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in community, we find unity

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advocacy A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 3 -2 0 2 4

in community, we find unity

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Mental Health Initiative In January 2024, Community Action Lehigh Valley launched an initiative to combat the stigma around mental health services in communities of color. With support from ESSA Bank, we partnered with six therapists—most of whom are therapists of color serving the Lehigh Valley—to provide seven therapy sessions to residents in need, at no cost to them.

what we did:

With moderate promotion, over 35+ residents applied for services. We supported therapists in evaluating, scheduling, and delivering both in-person and virtual sessions for convenience.

what we learned:

• For many participants, this was their first experience with mental health care, and they found it invaluable • Providers suggest 12 sessions, not seven, to have a greater impact • Clients sought help with family issues, work/school stress, racial dynamics, and financial pressures • Many participants kept their therapy a secret due to fear of stigma, but most reported a positive shift in their perception of mental health services • At the conclusion of their sessions, clients expressed a need for continued support

thank you to our providers:

Jonathan Asayag Renew Wellness & Psychotherapy, LLC

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Nikida Capasso

Change The Way, LLC

Leah Cofield

Route to Respite

Valerie Morales-Kendrick Kendrick Counseling

in community, we find unity

what we need:

To expand this program, we need additional funding. Therapy access disparities are significant: while nearly half of White Americans have access, only 33% of Hispanics, 31% of African-Americans, and 25% of Asian-Americans do. More support is essential. As we conclude this initiative for the fiscal year, it’s clear that accessible mental health services for marginalized communities are crucial and impactful.

Alphonso Nathan

Brightside Counseling, LLC

Yamelisa Tavares Counseling Solutions of Lehigh Valley

A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 2 3 -2 0 2 4

how to support MAIL A CHECK Community Action Lehigh Valley | Attn: Development 1337 East 5th Street | Bethlehem, PA 18015 If you’d like your donation to support a specific program, please write that on the check memo or attach a note.

DONATE ONLINE Our online form makes it quick and easy to donate.

Please visit our website at CommunityActionLV.org/Donate.

RECURRING DONATION Your monthly gift helps us continue to offer our programs and resources to the people who need it most. Visit CommunityActionLV.org/Donate and select ‘Recurring Donation’ to set up your monthly, quarterly, or annual gift.

MATCHING GIFTS Your workplace may have a matching gifts program that will double your donation!

To find out if you’re eligible, please visit CommunityAction.org/MatchingGifts.

Our Locations Community Action Lehigh Valley

1337 East 5th Street | Bethlehem, PA 18015 communityactionlv.org

Community Action Development Allentown 523-525 North 7th Street | Allentown, PA 18102

Community Action Development Bethlehem 409 East 4th Street | Bethlehem, PA 18015

Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley and Northeast Pennsylvania 6969 Silver Crest Road | Nazareth, PA 18064 shfblv.org

Sixth Street Shelter

219 North 6th Street | Allentown, PA 18102 sixthstreetshelter.org

SERVICE ARE

Slate Belt Rising

■ Community Act ■ Second Harves ■ Rising Tide Com ■ Slate Belt Risin

197 Pennsylvania Avenue | Bangor, PA 18013 slatebeltrising.org

The Seed Farm

5854 Vera Cruz Road | Emmaus, PA 18049 theseedfarm.org

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES To learn how you can sponsor an event or program, please contact our Associate Executive Director of Development, Barbara Kochard, at bkochard@caclv.org or 484-893-1137.

SERVICE AREA KEY CODE

■ Community Action Lehigh Valley ■ Second Harvest Food Bank ■ Rising Tide Community Loan Fund ■ Slate Belt Rising

Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

Lehigh Valley, PA Permit No. 477

1337 East 5th Street Bethlehem, PA 18015

Leave a legacy for families in the Lehigh Valley.

Fighting For Good Society members are friends who have chosen to join us in the fight to change the lives of people in the Lehigh Valley by including a planned gift in their will or estate. By naming Community Action Lehigh Valley in your will, donating assets, or establishing an endowment fund, you help ensure that our programs and services will be available for many years to come. Visit our donation page under Legacy Giving to learn more.

To donate to Community Action online, scan the QR code. Or visit our donate page through communityactionlv.org to learn more about workplace matching gifts, legacy giving, and recurring donations to your favorite Community Action programs.

@communityactionlv