EXPERIMENT IN SELF-RELIANCE 2019-2020 ANNUAL REPORT
EMPOWERING STRENGTH & RESILIENCE
TABLE OF CONTENTS LETTER FROM OUR DIRECTORS
02
ABOUT ESR
03
IMPACT REPORT
04
AGENCY BUDGET
05
YEAR IN REVIEW
06-07
PROGRAMS HOUSING
08-09
NEW CENTURY IDA
10-11
FORSYTH FREE TAX
12-13
SELF-SUFFICIENCY
14-15
INSPIRE 340
16-17
ROAD TO EMPOWERMENT
18-19
EVENTS WINTER WONDERLAND
20
GIVING STEWSDAY
21
OUTDOOR MOVIE SERIES
22
DAY OF SERVICE
23
COVID-19
24-25
ESR'S COMMITMENT
26-27
AGENCY BUDGET
27
TEAM STAFF
28
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
29
ADVISORY BOARD
30
VOLUNTEERS
31
INTERNS
32
OUR SUPPORTERS
33-36
PAGE 01 Â
A LETTER FROM OUR DIRECTORS In our 55th year of service to our community, ESR is proud to have helped nearly 5,000 Forsyth County residents achieve their goals and gain self-sufficiency. Individuals and families in our community utilize our Housing Services, New Century IDA, Forsyth Free Tax, Self-Sufficiency, and Road to Empowerment programs to locate affordable housing, rise above the poverty level, and build assets such as education and homeownership.
We recognize the barriers that systemic racism presents for many individuals and continue our mission to empower social and economic self-reliance and elevate all members of our community to their fullest potential.
Each year we face unique circumstances, this year being the COVID-19 pandemic and urgency to address and remedy racial injustice in our society. These challenges have awakened an even greater need for ESR’s services in our community, and we have worked eagerly and tirelessly to deliver.
We are continuing to discover new ways to adapt in these uncertain times and whole-heartedly appreciate all clients, partners, donors, and volunteers for their continued support and dedication. We look forward to many more years of creating brighter, more stable futures in the lives of individuals and families in Forsyth County.
ESR was deemed an “essential business” by Mayor Allen Joines in March 2020. Thus, our operations remain open in compliance with social-distancing guidelines, to ensure we aid those impacted by the virus in the safest way possible. ESR is also explicit in showing full support of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Rebecca Bender Board Chair
Twana W. Roebuck Executive Director
REBECCA BENDER
TWANA W. ROEBUCK PAGE 02
ABOUT US
helping people help themselves since 1964 Experiment in Self-Reliance (ESR) began serving our community in 1964 when President Lyndon B. Johnson declared war on poverty. His administration established Community Action Agencies across the United States, each with the purpose of eliminating poverty and empowering selfsufficiency. ESR was established with the help of Governor Sanford and a local community leaders.
OUR MISSION To empower social and economic self-reliance for the working lowincome and homeless
OUR VISION To reduce poverty and homelessness in our community
OUR VALUES ESR is a judgement-free zone full of respect for all in order to help everyone achieve their fullest potential
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ESR played a pivotal role in launching integral local organizations such as Head Start, Crisis Control, TransAid, Legal Aide, programs geared towards seniors, programs for youth, and Emergency Assistance Services. ESR is the only Community Action Agency in Forsyth County and one of 33 in North Carolina. We use our expertise in areas such as family financial stability and housing and collaborate with our community to promote long-term selfsufficiency for the working poor, housing for the working and chronically homeless, first-time homeownership, free tax services, vocational and college education, and Hispanic/Latino services.
2,689
IMPACT REPORT
NUMBER OF TAX RETURNS PREPARED
2 %
10 %
10 %
90%
90%
98%
90 OF SELF-SUFFICIENCY % CLIENTS OBTAINED STANDARD, AFFORDABLE HOUSING
OF SELF-SUFFICIENCY 98 % CLIENTS OBTAINED CHILDCARE STABILITY
OF HOUSING90CLIENTS % COMPLETED EDUCATION/ TRAINING
62 171 CENTURY IDA 271
HOUSEHOLDS ENROLLED IN IDA
NEW 0
10 0
HOUSEHOLDS ENROLLED IN HOUSING
20 0
11
HOUSEHOLDS ENROLLED IN SMALL BUSINESS IDA
HOUSEHOLDS ENROLLED IN SELF-SUFFICIENCY
30 0
$7,090
AVERAGE INCREASE IN ANNUAL INCOME PER FAMILY
8 IDA GRADUATES PURCHASED A HOME
$12,100
AVERAGE INCREASE IN ANNUAL INCOME PER FAMILY
$3,483,652 AMOUNT OF REFUNDS
$1,238,821 AMOUNT OF EARNED INCOME TAX CREDITS
21 PEOPLE GRADUATED FROM IDA FINANCIAL EDUCATION PAGE 04Â
AGENCY BUDGET Foundations/Other local 12.5%
—
Rent/TBRA/SPC 4.6% City of Winston-Salem 4.2%
—
—
CSBG 42.7%
— —
City of Winston-Salem—HUD 13.5%
City of Winston-Salem 5.6%
CSBG
United Way 8.1%
$915,313 $173,917
UNITED WAY
$55,000
COVID 19
$97,695
FORSYTH COUNTY CITY OF WINSTON-SALEM CITY OF WINSTON-SALEM—HUD CITY OF WINSTON-SALEM—CDBG RENTS/TBRA/SPC CITY OF WINSTON-SALEM—ESG FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY FOUNDATIONS/OTHER LOCAL
TOTAL:
$120,830 $289,386 $89,250 $98,963 $13,964 $20,000 $268,603 $2,142,921 PAGE05
YEAR IN REVIEW
2
3
1
5
4
6
5 PAGE 06Â
7
6
8
9
10
11
12
13
1: Pamela Ingram and Willa Hines participating in ESR's 2019 Day of Service 2: In memory of of Robert Law, ESR's former Executive Director from 1985-1998 3: In memory of Dr. Vivian H. Burke, City Council Member, North Ward, who advocated and supported ESR for many years along with her husband, former ESR Board Chair Logan Burke 4: ESR receives funding from Truliant in support of Forsyth Free Tax 5: Vicki Miller, wife of the late Ward Miller, receives appreciation award at ESR's 2020 Winter Wonderland event on behalf of her husband 6: Clients receive food and presents for their kids, donated by St. Leo's Catholic Church 7: ESR receives funding from the United Way of Forsyth County 8: New Century IDA Wave 42 graduation with keynote speaker and former IDA client Forsyth County Commissioner Tonya McDaniel 9: ESR Employees helping their clients and members of the community get connected with job opportunities 10: NCCAA certifies ESR staff for ROMA 11: Shenell Thompson, Twana W. Roebuck, Victoria von Dohlen, and Megan Thompson at a communications training in Durham, NC 12: St. Leo’s Catholic Church wouldn’t let COVID-19 restrictions stop them from donating food and Easter baskets for ESR clients 13: Delores McCullough, Forsyth Free Tax Program Manager, at EITC Awareness Day PAGE 07
HOUSING SERVICES ESR’s Housing Services program aids members of our community seeking to locate affordable housing and begin their journey towards self-sufficiency and escaping poverty. Championing our “Housing First” philosophy, we are able to stabilize housing for over 170 of clients annually. Our approach maintains that once a household has a roof, other needs can be more easily met, and focuses on securing permanent rather than transitional housing for our clients. Typical barriers that prevent housing stabilization for our community members are criminal, rental, or credit histories, lack of financial resources, and/or an overall lack of access to affordable, permanent housing. Our program links educational, vocational, health, transportation, and childcare components to housing
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stabilization. Our success coaches ensure maximum success in this process by working with clients oneon-one to devise a customized housing plan. ESR currently manages three housing sites in the community, which house those who are working with ESR toward long-term solutions to homelessness and poverty. As a Community Action Agency, ESR is heavily collaborative with other agencies and partners in the Forsyth County area, to enable residents to build assets such as homeownership and education, overcome barriers to self-sufficiency, and improve their standard of living.
. Ms. Clark is a 37-year-old who utilized ESR's housing services to find safe and affordable for herself and her family of four. Ms. Clark became homeless due to someone targeting her family with violence and shootings. As a result of living in the streets, Ms. Clark lost her son to gun violence. This trauma caused Ms. Clark to battle grief while also struggling with homelessness. Despite her tumultuous past living situation, Ms. Clark finds immense joy in her children. To protect her children, Ms. Clark's main goal through ESR's housing program was to have a place to live where she and all her children would be able to stay in peace and safety. She also made it her goal to become a full-time counselor/social worker. Ms. Clark desires to help those who went through a similar situation to the one she went through, specifically regarding homelessness. With ESR's assistance, Ms. Clark secured stable and affordable housing as of early May. Ms. Clark and her family will happily be staying in Kennedy Manor. .
2019-2020
171 HOUSEHOLDS ENROLLED IN HOUSING PROGRAM
HOUSING SERVICES SUCCESS STORY PAGE 09
NEW CENTURY IDA New Century IDA (Individual Development Account) is an assetbuilding initiative that focuses on promoting homeownership, obtaining higher education, and developing small businesses. This program seeks to combat generational poverty by assisting families with accruing assets. Clients work one-on-one with a success coach to navigate economic literacy training, tailor their savings schedule towards a down-payment on a home, and provide support every step of the way. The New Century IDA program also focuses on raising client’s credit
ESR Executive Director Twana W. Roebuck speaks at the New Century IDA Wave 42 graduation.
PAGE 10Â
scores so that they qualify for homeownership. Due to lack of financial literacy, poor credit is often a barrier to homeownership for many. ESR works with participants to lower their debt-toincome ratio by teaching budgeting strategies and how to improve their credit score, pay down their debt, and maintain their assets. In addition, the Working Group meets monthly to implement programs and provide wrap-around services for clients.
Gordon, a husband and father of two children, will be closing on a house in September thanks to the help of New Century IDA. His family currently lives in a two-bedroom townhouse, which they are quickly growing out of. Gordon used to live in New York City, where he always thought owning a house was just a distant dream. After moving to Winston-Salem and becoming a part of the New Century IDA program, Gordon was ready to learn as much as he could and make his dream a reality. He claims to have looked at almost every house in Winston-Salem, disheartened by not being able to find a house that met his or ESR’s standards. Finally, he and his real estate agent drove around a neighborhood where new houses were being built. Gordon liked the new developments, went through the paperwork, and will be closing on a
“I MONITORED MY MONEY, [BUT I HAD] NEVER BUDGETED MY MONEY FOR A GOAL. [ESR] OPENED MY EYES TO UNNECESSARY SPENDING, SAVINGS, AND REALLY CHANGED MY LIFE."
—Gordon New Century IDA Client
new four-bedroom house shortly. He never imagined living in a house this big with so much land and thinks the wonderful reality of his new living situation will probably not hit him until he and his family move in. Gordon expressed that ESR’s classes changed his life drastically for the better. Gordon learned how to budget and save for a goal, which he says he will remember for the rest of his life. To anyone wanting to join the program or buy a house, Gordon claims that it is not easy, but it is worth it. He is quoted stating “The things you will learn at ESR as you sit in the class might not come together right there in class, but after you have graduated and are out there looking at houses, you will start to remember everything that ESR taught you.”
NEW CENTURY IDA SUCCESS STORY PAGE 11
FORSYTH FREE TAX The Forsyth Free Tax initiative provides free tax preparation and filing for low to moderate income individuals and families in the Winston-Salem and Forsyth County area. The program ensures that all who qualify for Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) receive it, a credit that often goes unclaimed and refunded $1,238,821 in total for our clients this year. ESR’s tax preparation services have helped 2,689 individuals this year file their tax returns for free, sparing clients $605,025 overall. In total, $3,483,652 in refunds were realized by clients in this unique January-July 2020 extended tax season. ESR heads up the VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Engagement Committee, which collaborates with partners, funders, and volunteers from the community to provide tax sites to host free tax preparation services and plan for the tax season. Tax volunteers are IRS-certified and trained by our team to use IRS-approved software to successfully prepare and file individual income tax returns.
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After the COVID-19 stay-at-home order, ESR went from seven tax sites to one by appointment only. Clients, staff, and volunteers wore masks, remained six feet apart separated by a glass partition, and taxes were prepared individually in a separate tax lab.
Forsyth Free Tax volunteer Ray Crouse shares his volunteer testimony.
Daisy is a third-time returner to ESR for Forsyth Free Tax Services. She found out about our services through her husband, who has been bringing a young man who is blind and hard of hearing to get his taxes done at ESR for several years. Citing this young man’s experiences, Daisy asserted that ESR’s programs are accommodating for people's needs and make clients aware of any and all deductions available. Daisy went to a commercial tax preparer before finding ESR, yet prefers ESR’s free tax services. She claims “they charge you so much money and don’t give you half the information that these people [at ESR] have shared with me, as far as how to file, what to do, what to bring, [etc.]” Daisy recognizes that taxes can be a very scary situation for many people, but ensures that ESR’s volunteers and staff are very helpful and friendly throughout the entire tax filing process.
“THESE PEOPLE ARE JUST AS KNOWLEDGEABLE AS THE PEOPLE YOU ARE GOING TO PAY YOUR HARD-EARNED MONEY FOR... AND THESE PEOPLE CARE.” —Daisy Forsyth Free Tax Client
Forsyth Free Tax client, Daisy, files her taxes behind a glass partition during the COVID-19 pandemic.
When asked how she received information regarding Forsyth Free Tax and when/where tax sites were available, Daisy said it was easily accessible. She called ESR’s main telephone number, received the number to call in order to find out about the tax program, and listened to our recording that tells you when and where the program will take place. Overall, Daisy felt very welcomed and helped throughout her experience with Forsyth Free Tax and will be coming back next year!
FORSYTH FREE TAX SUCCESS STORY PAGE 13
SELFSUFFICIENCY The Self-Sufficiency program concentrates upon helping people help themselves. Each individual in our program is assigned a success coach to help customize their goals and create a step-by-step plan, allowing clients to realize their potential, elevate themselves above the poverty level and achieve selfreliance. This program typically entails vocational training, housing assistance, transportation, educational advancement, financial counseling, employment preparation, and social and economic literacy training. ESR Self-Sufficiency client receives a relaxation-themed gift basket for attending all program training classes.
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In addition, participants may receive tuition and books assistance, childcare funding, housing services, transportation and more. Based on a Results Oriented Management and Accountability (ROMA) cycle, the two-year program is intended for individuals below 125% poverty as defined by the HHS Poverty Income Guidelines.
Ms. R is a young single mother who enrolled in the Self-Sufficiency program with the goal to complete a Natural Hair Specialist course and receive a license to practice in the state of North Carolina. Prior to entering the program, Ms. R faced many barriers to her success. She did not have private transportation and relied on public transportation or paying for rides to travel. Ms. R had to get on the bus two hours before school started, which allowed her to get her son to school on time and then go to her own schooling. In addition to there being no other routes to accommodate her closer to the start of school, public transportation enforces a limit to the number of items you can bring on board, making it difficult for Ms. R to bring home a full load of groceries. Through the assistance of CSBG funds, Ms. R was able to register and complete the Natural Hair Specialist course. Upon completion, Ms. R began working as an apprentice for the school. She took her licensure examination in August 2019 and passed. This allowed her to make more money and save up to participate with a partner of ESR, the Wheels for Hope nonprofit program. Over time, Ms. R increased her client base and income to show she could budget accordingly for a vehicle.Â
ESR Self-Sufficiency client made it her goal to graduate from high school. With the help of her success coach and a lot of hard work, she received her high school diploma.
ESR congratulates Ms. R on receiving a new vehicle in February 2020. This vehicle has opened up so many possibilities for Ms. R, including, driving to a grocery store and purchasing a full load of groceries, having more time before traveling to appointments and work, and remaining dry on a rainy day.
SELFSUFFICIENCY SUCCESS STORY PAGE 15Â
INSPIRE 340 The Inspire 340 initiative (formerly known as the Priority Schools Initiative) seeks to strengthen the parent or guardian relationship with the child and the child's school. ESR hopes to increase the economic and social self-sufficiency of the parents/guardians and improve the foundation for the child. This initiative works to overcome generational poverty and increases family stability on social, economic, and psychological levels, leading to positive increases in a child's academic interests and performance. ESR connects directly with the families of four priority elementary schools:
Ashley, Easton, Forest Park and Petree. By focusing on early intervention in students' academic careers, ESR makes a difference in the lives of the underserved children of Winston-Salem. Through a partnership with the Reynolds American Foundation and WinstonSalem Foundation, ESR is working to uplift all members of the younger generation that will one day lead Forsyth County to further success.
Crystal, an Inspire 340 graduate, stands with success coach Susan Bowen at ESR's 2019 annual meeting.
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ESR met Maria at the lowest point in her life. As a native Spanish speaker, she had difficulty understanding English. In addition, she was fighting to understand the best schooling for her son Alejandro, who has autism. When sharing her story, Maria said “Fue un año muy difícil para mí, pero la señora Norma Lucas …me dio fuerza, [me hizo que] yo tenía que creer en mí y siempre ser persistente... El programa ha marcado mi vida para bien y me enseñaba hacer una persona fuerte con esperanza.”
ENGLISH TRANSLATION:
"IT WAS A VERY DIFFICULT YEAR FOR ME, BUT MS. NORMA LUCAS GAVE ME STRENGTH, MADE ME BELIEVE IN MYSELF AND TAUGHT ME TO ALWAYS BE PERSISTENT. THE PROGRAM HAS MARKED MY LIFE FOR THE BETTER AND TAUGHT ME TO BECOME A STRONG PERSON WITH HOPE."
—Maria Inspire 340 Client
Maria (who is not featured in this success story), an Inspire 340 graduate, stands with success coach Norma Lucas.
Our services gave Maria a renewed sense of courage—a success she asserts is far more valuable to her than a career or a diploma. Maria is now enrolled in English as a second language (ESL) classes at Forsyth Tech and Alejandro attends a school better equipped to serve students diagnosed with autism.
INSPIRE 340 SUCCESS STORY -Maria ESR Inspire 340 Clinet
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ROAD TO EMPOWERMENT The Road to Empowerment Series is an initiative which seeks to empower individuals to reach their financial goals through education on financial literacy, asset-building, and career development. Community members are able to engage topics such as financial security, job preparation, banking services, credit, renter’s rights, and other subjects of particular interest. These courses are taught by ESR staff and professionals from the community. Attendees of this series receive a certificate upon completion, door prizes, dinner and refreshments, connections to other programs, and an overall deeper knowledge of financial literacy and asset-building. This series ensures individuals feel more empowered, confident, and prepared to enter and excel in the workforce and overcome barriers to their success.
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In our 2019-2020 year, ESR offered a resume-building class to help individuals who were in-between jobs or searching for more meaningful employment. This class helped participants highlight their unique skills and experiences so that they would appeal to a potential employer. While creating a solid resume that will grab the attention of a potential employer can be intimidating and/or overwhelming, ESR's course helps inspire confidence in our community members exploring the working world.
HOW TO BE A GOOD RENTER BUDGETING I BUDGETING II COUPONING HOMEOWNERSHIP 101 RESUME WRITING INTERVIEW SKILLS "THE ROAD TO EMPOWERMENT SERIES PROVIDES PARTICIPANTS THE OPPORTUNITY TO RECEIVE VALUABLE INFORMATION PRESENTED TO THEM THAT IMPROVES THEIR QUALITY OF LIFE. THE PARTICIPANTS ARE SURVEYED FOR THEIR INTERESTS AND THEN ESR PROVIDES THE INSTRUCTORS FROM COMMUNITY AGENCIES." —Manya Stewart ESR Employee Relations Manager & Road to Empowerment Coordinator
PARENTING DECORATING FOR CHRISTMAS ON A BUDGET
CLASSES PAGE 18
In February of 2020, ESR hosted its 5th annual Winter Wonderland fundraiser at the Innovation Quarter. Commemorating 55 years of ESR’s service to the Winston-Salem area, this event raised funds for ESR’s programs and services and served as a time of fellowship and thanksgiving for our donors, partners, and friends. The night offered a silent auction for participants to bid on, dancing accompanied by Mia Thompson music and sound by Mr. Bill Productions, and the recognition of key contributors by individual speakers. Mayor Allen Joines delivered a proclamation from the City of Winston-Salem, officially naming February as “Community Action Month” and highlighting ESR as the only Community Action Agency in Forsyth County. PAGE 20
Other speeches included Judge Denise Hartsfield, serving as the mistress of ceremony, a success story from a SelfSufficiency program graduate, and ESR board members who honored former and current members of the Louise G. Wilson Legacy Society.
"IT WAS INCREDIBLE TO SEE OUR COMMUNITY COME OUT TO CELEBRATE ESR WITH US. WE ARE SO THANKFUL FOR OUR SPONSORS, DONORS, AND VOLUNTEERS, AND STAFF WHO HAVE HELPED DEVELOP ESR OVER THE PAST 55 YEARS." -Twana W. Roebuck ESR Executive Director
ESR WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE BOARD, STAFF, AND COMMUNITY RESIDENTS FOR DONATING STEW, VOLUNTEERING, AND SERVING AS JUDGES FOR THIS EVENT. THESE EFFORTS HELPED US RAISE FUNDS IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING TUESDAY, TO HELP ESR CONTINUE TO SERVE OUR COMMUNITY.
On December 3rd, 2019, ESR celebrated Giving Tuesday, aka. Giving STEWSday! Giving Tuesday is a national campaign that encourages making donations on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving. ESR celebrates this day in its own unique way by having participants compete, donate, and vote in a stew cook-off! This year, ESR offered the chance to bring the Stews-day festivities on the go! Community members were able to sign-up to have stew delivered to their place of work, raising funds to bolster ESR’s programs and services while enjoying a warm and exciting workplace lunch break.
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In the hot summer months of July and August, residents of the Winston-Salem and Forsyth County area gathered for ESR’s 4th annual Family Film Fest, featuring the kid-friendly films Monsters vs. Aliens and Megamind. These movies were complete with Spanish subtitles for an entertaining and inclusive experience. The movie nights offered educational pre-movie entertainment regarding community resources such as the Winston-Salem Police Department and the Forsyth County Public Library. In addition to the free-admission, community-centered movie nights, New Communion donated school supplies and a weeks-worth of food to families at both features!
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OUR FAMILY FILM FEST: OUTDOOR MOVIE SERIES WAS IN COLLABORATION WITH FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY, GREAT COMMISSION COMMUNITY CHURCH, AND NEW COMMUNION.
ESR THANKS HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF FORSYTH COUNTY, HABITAT RESTORE, SECCA, SAMARITAN MINISTRIES, SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK, SENIOR SERVICES, AND THE SECU FAMILY HOUSE FOR PROVIDING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AND JOINING IN THE CELEBRATION OF ESR'S CONNECTIVITY WITH OUR COMMUNITY.
Born of the Equal Opportunity Act and President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty, ESR strongly values and seeks to highlight our interconnectedness with our community. In celebration of ESR's 55th birthday, our Day of Service was held on September 25th, 2019. Residents of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County signed up to volunteer at different service opportunities throughout the community. Each year, we welcome this opportunity for new volunteer and engagement experiences, allowing ESR to connect with other local organizations also striving to positively impact our community.
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COVID-19 Beginning in February of 2020, ordinary
The funding provided families with
life in the U.S. was derailed by the
assistance with rent, utility support, an
COVID-19 pandemic. Non-essential
emergency tool kit (regarding financial
businesses shut down, schools
literacy and job readiness), and/or
transitioned to virtual instruction,
other bills. This assistance will
wearing masks became mandated and
continue with new funding under the
social distancing at a six-foot distance
CARES Act/COVID-19 EA for in the
went into effect.
2020-2021 fiscal year program. ESR strives to support low-income
Although Winston-Salem went under a
individuals during COVID-19 when
stay-at-home order on March 27th,
many people may not have access to
2020, ESR was deemed an “essential
critical resources and also in recovery
business” by Mayor Allen Joines and remained open with adjusted hours. To meet the needs of our staff and clients, ESR’s Board of Directors approved a Work from Home Policy and laptop computers were purchased and distributed to staff. In addition, the COVID-19 Response Fund for Forsyth County was established to support local community members impacted by the novel coronavirus. With this funding, ESR was able to assist vulnerable families impacted by COVID19 dealing with: furlough, reduction in hours, closed business, and/or lay off. PAGE 24
efforts to address the economic and community consequences of the outbreak. ESR closed its tax sites on March 19th, reopening on June 1st by appointment only. Tax filing was available only at the main office, with the lobby entrance set up for social distancing for clients and VITA staff. A VITA greeter received the intake documents in a designated area, and taxes were prepared in the tax lab and while the client waited. Additionally, drop-off was an option, allowing clients to leave and pick up their return at a scheduled time.
ESR'S COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES NO MORE THAN 10 PERSONS (INCLUDING STAFF) IN THE LOBBY AT ANY GIVEN TIME NO MORE THAN 10 PERSONS (INCLUDING STAFF) IN CONFERENCE ROOMS, INCLUDING THE BOARD AND TRAINING ROOMS CASE MANAGERS MEET WITH CLIENTS VIA PHONE OR IN CONFERENCE ROOMS INSTEAD OF INDIVIDUAL OFFICES VISITORS AND STAFF MAINTAIN A 6-FOOT DISTANCE AND WEAR MASKS MASKS PROVIDED IF NOT AVAILABLE TO CLIENTS, THANKS TO THE DONATIONS FROM MASK THE CITY AND HANESBRANDS
LOOKING AHEAD TO A BRIGHTER TOMORROW As we move into the new fiscal year, ESR continues to practice the social distancing and sanitation protocols mandated by the state of North Carolina and city of Winston-Salem. We remain in phase two of the Governor Roy Cooper’s reopening plan, with COVID-19 restrictions gradually being lifted. Furthermore, with the 2020-2021 academic year beginning shortly, we remain mindful of family dynamics as it relates to the e-learning model and continue to strive to meet the needs of these clients.
ORIENTATION SESSIONS LIMITED TO EIGHT PEOPLE ON A FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS
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ESR'S COMMITMENT ESR STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH OUR COMMUNITY AND EFFORTS TO HIGHLIGHT AND COMBAT RACIAL INJUSTICE AND ECONOMIC CHALLENGES. WE RECOGNIZE THE BARRIERS THAT SYSTEMATIC RACISM PRESENTS FOR MANY INDIVIDUALS AND CONTINUE OUR MISSION TO EMPOWER SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SELFRELIANCE AND ELEVATE ALL MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY TO THEIR FULLEST POTENTIAL.
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DARKNESS DRIVE OUT D ONLY LIGHT THAT. HATE DRIVE OUT H LOVE CAN D
CANNOT DARKNESS; T CAN DO E CANNOT HATE; ONLY DO THAT - REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
ESR was born into our community at the peak of the Civil Rights Movement of the late 20th century. In the modern day, we highlight our full support of the Black Lives Matter movement, recognizing the importance of this fight for justice for the African American community and the social justice efforts that were integral to our own beginnings. Many demonstrations occurred, with protesters laying down or kneeling with their hands behind their back for the 8 minutes and 46 seconds that George Floyd was suffocated by the Minneapolis police. These protests remained peaceful, with most protesters complying with six feet social distancing and wearing masks. In addition, on June 13th, 2020, 18 local artists collaborated on a mural spelling “End Racism Now #BLM” on Main Street, in front of City Hall in downtown Winston-Salem. This artwork was made possible by the Winston-Salem Community Mural Project, a collaborative, grassroots public arts project inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement.
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TWANA W. ROEBUCK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR SHIRLEY ABDULLAH DEBORAH AUSTIN-THOMAS FRED BAZEMORE SUSAN BOWEN JUANITA BRADFORD JANET CARLTON PATRICIA CASEY JAMES CHERRY SHEILA DEVEREAUX KEITH FERGER KAREN FORREST MARANDA GREENE BRYON HARRISON MELINDA HASH WILLA HINES PAMELA INGRAM CLARENCE JOHNSON JOHNNIE JOHNSON NORMA LUCAS SHADOWE MAGARACI APRIL MARLIN DELORES MCCULLOUGH BOBBI MCDOWELL JANET MCDOWELL HILDA MOORE SHERRI PAYSOUR DEBRA PERKINS MEGAN REYNOLDS MARIE ROBERTS TERESA SIMMONS KAREN SPAUGH MANYA STEWART JASMINE TALLEY VICTORIA VON DOHLEN LUNA WILLIAMS ANTHONY WRIGHT
STAFF PAGE 28Â
REBECCA BENDER, CHAIR TONYA O. BELLANGER DIANA BOZZUTO BRIAN P. BURLEY KEVIN B. BYERS REV. ALVIN CARLISLE PHILLIP T. CARTER, SR. MARSHA S. DAVIS MINNIE ERVIN DIANE C. FITZHUGH EVA GRAY-ALLEN KATIE ANN LEFELAR VIRGINIA C. MARTIN JOSE PEREZ, JR. DR. SYDNEY RICHARDSON REV. DR. MICHAEL W. ROBINSON DAVID ROSE PASTOR GLORIA M. SAMUELS LESLIE OLDHAM WINBUSH SHERROD WOOD
BOARD PAGE 29
DOUG ATKINSON, CHAIR TAMIKA BOWERS RITCHIE BROOKS KURT GEHSMANN TOMMY HICKMAN SHARON JEFFRIES-JONES ANDREA JENKINS DR. BRENDA LATHAM-SADLER DR. KAREN ROSEBORO DR. ERIC SADLER KENT WALLACE-MEGGS WIN WELCH MARY WILLIAMS
ADVISORY BOARD PAGE 30Â
VOLUNTEERS ESR is proud to offer many volunteer and internship opportunities for those who are looking to become more involved in working with the low-income community. ESR is thrilled to work with individuals who are passionate about our mission, vision, and values and seek to create positive and impactful change in our community. Volunteers come to ESR from many local corporations, faith-based groups, schools, and more. We also enjoy having former clients and donors participate in volunteer opportunities. These opportunities range from assisting in tax preparation and filing, asset-building programs through AmeriCorps, feasibility studies through Dash Corps, planning and coordinating fundraisers and outreach events, teaching classes, and more. Internships with ESR can also allow individuals to learn more about the nonprofit sector through collaboration with our development team, program managers, directors, and success coaches. Interns engage in community-based work and connect their experiences with their academic and/or professional goals.
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NOT PICTURED:
ALANA ARTIS SELF-SUFFICIENCY INTERN
TAMIJA STROUD FORSYTH FREE TAX INTERN Forsyth Technical Community College
North Carolina Central University
EMILY HELLWIG DEVELOPLEMT INTERN
Wake Forest University
JACKSON CORNATZER DEVELOPMENT INTERN Liberty University
MAVIS FOUNTAIN FORSYTH FREE TAX INTERN Winston-Salem State University
I AM SO THANKFUL TO HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO INTERN WITH ESR AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THEIR MISSION, VISION, AND VALUES. THIS SUMMER I WAS ABLE TO THINK CRITICALLY ABOUT WORK IN THE NONPROFIT SECTOR, ENHANCE THE SUSTAINABILITY OF THE ORGANIZATION, FORM RELATIONSHIPS WITH MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY, AND EVALUATE MY OWN CAREER GOALS."
-Emily Hellwig Development Intern
INTERNS PAGE 32Â
OUR SUPPORTERS Celebrating 55 years of service to our community and 5 years of our Winter Wonderland fundraiser, ESR promoted our campaign “Come Alive and Thrive.” This fiscal year and through the end of 2020, we are encouraging our supporters to donate to ESR in a ‘5’ theme, with amounts such as $5, $55, $555, $5,555, and $55,555! This campaign is a wonderful way to highlight ESR’s long-lasting service to our community while bolstering our current and future programs.
90.5 WSNC LEONARD AND SHIRLEY ABDULLAH ACEY GROUP THOMAS R. ADAMS AGAPE FAITH CHURCH DR. BETTY ALEXANDER EMMA ALLEN EVA GRAY ALLEN AUGSBURG LUTHERAN CHURCH DR. L'TANYA BAILEY LINDA JACKSON BARNES SCOTT AND ELAINE BAUER TONYA BELLANGER CHERYLE E. BELO KEVIN AND REBECCA BENDER HUNTER AND MARY BENNETT ISIAH AND VERONICA BLACK BODY & SOUL ERICA BONNER BOONE WOOD REALTY NICK AND DIANA BOZZUTO CARLA BROWN BRIAN BURLEY JOHN W. BURRESS JR. EDITH JACKSON CABBELL GRAYLIN CARLTON PATRICIA CASEY CHARLES CHAMBERS CHUCK AND BOBBIE CHAMBERS CHURCH OF CHRIST AT KETNER'S CHAPEL KAY CLARK
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PAGE
CLARK S. BROWN FUNERAL HOME
SUSAN HENDERSON
GWEN CLEMENTS
TOMMY AND PATRICIA HICKMAN
JACKSON CORNATZER
TOMMY HICKS
FLORENCE CORPENING
DIERDRE HILL
JENNIFER CRAVEN
WILLA HINES
S. AND J. CRAVER
HOOPER FUNERAL HOME
CYCLEBAR
ANGELO HORTON
CHESTER DAVID
PEARLINE HOWARD
MARSHA DAVIS
KATHERINE HOYT
SHEILA DEVEREAUX
MICHAEL HUBBARD
CRISTA DOUTHIT
LARRY HUNGERFORD
EFIRD AND MARIE HINE FUND
I.L. LONG CONSTRUCTION CO.
EMMA ALLEN/EMMA ALLEN STATE
MR. AND MRS. THOMAS INGRAM
FARM JAKAY AND MINNIE ERVIN OLIVIA EVANS
INNOVATION QUARTER IVERY CASON'S HANDMADE JEWELRY
ELIZABETH FENWICK
MADELINE JAMES
KEITH FERGER
PETER AND JANICE JENNINGS
DIANE FITZHUGH
JOHN JESSUP
MCDARA AND RAGAN FOLAN
JOHN BURRESS ADVISED FUND
FOOD LION
PHILLIP JOHNSON
FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC
MAYOR ALLEN JOINES
LIBRARY
DONNA JONES
DR. AND MRS. FRANK JAMES
CLAUDIA KENNEDY
FTCC FOUNDATION INC.
KENNEDY, KENNEDY, KENNEDY, &
JAMES AND ALINDA GADSON KURT AND JACQUELYN GEHSMANN
KENNEDY KEONA'S BOUTIQUE JACK KIMEL
MAE GODDETTE
SUSAN KING
J. GOODMAN
DAN KORNELIS
GOODWILL INDUSTRIES
LACY FOUNDATION
MARANDA GREENE
DR. BRENDA LATHAM-SADLER
HAND AND STONE
ATTY. KATIES LEFELAR
MR. AND MRS. F. BORDEN HANES
JAMES AND RENITA LINVILLE
JR.
LINDA LITTLE
CLEVELAND AND N.S. HARDING
LOVE OUT LOUD
JUDGE DENISE HARTSFIELD
DANIEL AND MONA LOVETTE
SYVERIA HAUSER
M&F BANK
BARBARA HAYES
RYMELLE MACON
RONALD HEADEN
SHADOWE MAGARACI
PAGE PAGE 34
DR. HAROLD AND ATTY. DAVIDA MARTIN VIRGINIA MARTIN
PETERSON/GORDON ARCHITECT PIEDMONT ADVANTAGE CREDIT UNION
BILLIE MATTHEWS
ASHLEY PITTS
TWANDA MCCOLLUM
PNC FOUNDATION
DELORES MCCULLOUGH
POWERHOUSE BAPTIST CHURCH
JASON AND BOBBI MCDOWELL
PRP WINE INTERNATIONAL
JUDGE LISA MENEFEE
QUALITY EDUCATION ACADEMY
CARL MILLER
RAI SERVICES CO.
MINISTER'S CONFERENCE OF
RANDALL AND CLAIRE TUTTLE
WINSTON-SALEM
FUND
LYNNE MITCHELL
DELORIS A. REAVES
CAROL MITCHELL
REINVESTMENT PARTNERS
HELEN MONROE
RETAIL BUSINESS SERVICES
AGNES MOORE
REYNOLDA ROTARY CLUB
HILDA MOORE
JOHN AND KATHRYN REYNOLDS
ESR helps over 5000 Forsyth County residents each year to achieve financial stability. With your support, ESR can help residents locate affordable housing, rise above the poverty level, and build assets such as education and homeownership. Gifts to the Annual Fund help bridge MORAVIAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
MEGAN REYNOLDS
MT. SINAI FULL GOSPEL
REYNOLDS AMERICAN CHARITY
DELIVERANCE CENTER JEAN MURPHY NAACP
CUSTODIAL ACCOUNT REYNOLDS AMERICAN FOUNDATION
MOSÉ BELTAN/NATIONWIDE
DR. SYDNEY RICHARDSON
NC BLACK REPERTORY COMPANY
RIGHT AT HOME
ADAM AND REBECCA NEIBERG
RISE N FLY BID WHIST CLUB
NEW COMMUNION
CATHY ROBERTSON
MARLA NEWMAN
CHANCELLOR DR. ELWOOD
ROY AND EDELINA OLIPHANT
ROBINSON
GWENDOLYN PARKER
REV. DR. MICHAEL AND DR.
LISA PARRISH
CLAIRE ROBINSON
SHERRI PAYSOUR
DR. MAE RODNEY
PAZ VENTURES LLC
DAVID ROSE
DEBRA PERKINS
LEO RUCKER
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RUNWAY
TRULIANT FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
S&L PAINTING
RANDALL AND CLAIRE TUTTLE
GLORIA SAMUELS
TW GARNER FOOD CO.
PASTOR GLORIA SAMUELS
VICTORIA VON DOHLEN
BOBBY ROEBUCK/SHOT TO THE
WAKE FOREST UNIVERSITY
HEAD PHOTOGRAPHY
BEVERLY WALLACE
JUDY SIDDEN
ANNE WALTER
DARRLY SMITH
REBA WARREN
JOHNNY SMITH
BOB AND CHRIS WEBSTER
JOHNNY AND LILLIAN SMITH
WELLS FARGO FOUNDATION
SMSI SEGMENTED MARKETING
WELLS LAW
SYLVIA SPRINKLE-HAMLIN
TIM WEST
ST. LEO'S CATHOLIC CHURCH
WFU ATHLETICS
STARBUCK ADVISED FUND
PAUL WILES
WANDA STARKE
WINSTON-SALEM DASH
DAVID AND IRIS STARKEY
WINSTON-SALEMÂ FEDERAL CREDIT
the gap between program expenses and operations, keeping services accessible to more families and individuals. Your donations help residents in our community continue to create a brighter, more stable future for themselves and their families. DONNA JONES/STATE FARM
UNION
MANYA STEWART
WINSTON-SALEM FOUNDATION
ALAN SUBER
WSSU FOUNDATION
MICHAEL SUGGS
WXII
TE JOHNSON
KARL YENA
THE LEON LEVINE FOUNDATION
YMCA OF NORTHWEST NC
THE OLIO THE WINSTON-SALEM CHRONICLE LYNN THOMAS MARY THOMPSON CLARENCE THORPE TOBACCO DRONE COMPANY
PLEASE FORGIVE US IF WE ACCIDENTALLY LEFT YOU OFF THIS LIST! WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR ALL OUR SUPPORTERS!
TWANA MCCOLLUM/TRAVERSUS GLOBAL TRU TAEKWONDO CENTER TRUIST PAGE 36
CONTACT (336) 722-9400 https://eisr.org/
PHYSICAL ADDRESS
EMPOWERING STRENGTH & RESILIENCE
3480 Dominion Street Winston-Salem, NC 27105
MAILING ADDRESS P.O. Box 135 Winston-Salem, NC 27102