We Make IMPACT! This is the very first of four core values embodied at IMPACT Community Action. Underneath this particular core value are the key behaviors that serve as its foundation; It’s bigger than me, I am All in, and I lead by example. It was our embrace of these values and behaviors that sustained our mission-centered staff while tackling one of our community’s greatest challenges…The COVID-19 pandemic.
Over the past 4 years, our staff and partners have risen to the occasion. We prevented over 40,000 people from being evicted and distributed over $120M dollars in support of our local economy. We helped hundreds of displaced workers find new jobs and provided credentialed training to hundreds more in search of career opportunities paying family-sustaining wages. We are Co-Developers with Woda Cooper to develop 102 units of affordable housing on a project in Whitehall called The Enclave on Main. Without a doubt we are making IMPACT!
In addition to these achievements, we’ve made significant strides in renewable energy projects. Our involvement in the American Addition project and the Solar Workforce Lab has allowed us to contribute to the sustainability of our community while creating job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
However, the aftershocks stemming from the pandemic are only recently starting to reverberate in our community as much of the Pandemic Relief dollars have come to an end. As the resources tighten and new challenges emerge from the fast-paced and unprecedented growth that our region is experiencing, now is the time for our community to come together to discuss, strategize and plan for smart growth and sustained impact.
IMPACT played a crucial role in maintaining stability and security in our community. In addition to stabilizing families who are facing eviction, or their utilities being shut off, we are concentrating more of our resources and efforts on helping families achieve self-sufficiency via our workforce development, financial literacy, matched savings program for entrepreneurs, just to name a few.
Sustaining IMPACT means working strategically and collectively to address challenges at a systemic level. Sustaining IMPACT means our community has a vision and real opportunities to truly live out the mantra of One Columbus, Prosperity for All. Sustaining IMPACT means we are assisting in partnership with the people, we are creating solutions with, NOT for the community.
Sustaining IMPACT means supporting IMPACT Community Action, for our name is also our mandate…through Community Action, we Make IMPACT!
Robert “Bo” Chilton
Chief Executive Officer
Community Sector Board Members
EXECUTIVE STAFF BOARD MEMBERS
Private Sector Board
Public Sector Board
Advisory Board
Representatives
Martina
Price & Associates (Board Advisor)
Our Board Members play a crucial role in overseeing these programs, participating in strategic planning, assisting with fundraising, and advocating for our mission. Our 18-member Tripartite board is made up of equal numbers of private sector and democratically elected community representatives. We also have subcommittees that include Program, Governance, Marketing and Development.
From left to right:
Robert “Bo” Chilton - Chief Executive Officer, Rob Thoroughman, CPA- Chief Financial Officer, Beth Urban - Chief Operating Officer, Teresa Gary - Vice President of Workforce Programs, Shameikia Smith, MSW, LSW - Vice President of Housing
Poverty in Our Community
From 2021 to 2023, poverty in Franklin County rose significantly following the end of pandemic-era policies that had previously stabilized adult poverty and reduced child poverty to record lows. In 2021, the poverty rate increased to 14.3% due to economic disruptions, with 41% of households struggling to make ends meet, including those below the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households.
By 2023, inflation and rising living costs compounded the impact of reduced government support, affecting both low-income households and those earning above 200% of the poverty line. Median household income, adjusted for inflation, fell by 2.3% to $74,580, as inflation outpaced employment and wage growth.
Child poverty affected 18.4% of children in Franklin County, with African Americans experiencing poverty at twice the county average, highlighting deep racial disparities.
IMPACT Community Action remains dedicated to combating these challenges by delivering programs and services that reduce poverty and improve quality of life for all residents.
14.3%
County Average Poverty Rate
Child Poverty Rate African American Poverty Rate
29.9%
18.4%
Our Response
HOUSING STABILITY & CRISIS ASSISTANCE
A significant portion of IMPACT’s work involves helping people with immediate needs such as utility and housing assistance.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps income eligible Ohioans that are threatened with disconnection or have been disconnected, maintain their utility service.
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) provides emergency financial resources to ensure continuous water access for qualifying residents of Columbus and Franklin County. Water Utility Assistance provides one-time payment amount to a water utility vendor for water bills.
40,500+
4,500+
14,000+
Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (to June 2023) Households served
2,000+ Mortgage-Household served
Assistance-Households served
2023 PROGRAM
OVERVIEWS Transportation
Through the transportation assistance program, individuals who are at or below the 200% Federal Poverty Level may be eligible to receive a 2-$25 Gas card or a 2- 7day Public Transportation Vouchers. Research and past program outcomes have shown that there is a tremendous need for the Transportation Assistance program. Through this program, clients are able fuel their personal vehicles or ability to use Franklin County public transportation to fulfill their obligations, such as employment, medical appointments, etc.
Mortgage
This program provides Columbus and Franklin County Residents with a means to avoid possible foreclosures due to mortgage arrearage.
69
Furniture Bank
106
Bereavement
To assist eligible Columbus and Franklin County residents with the unexpected expense of funeral costs.
55
Food Cards
The purpose of this service is to ensure those in need of Food Assistance in Columbus and Franklin County by providing Kroger Food Gift Cards.
207
When stabilizing families, furniture often becomes a hardship with moving from crisis to stability and then to self-sufficiency. Households were assisted with couches, beds, kitchen items and other home goods to help stabilize with the expense of purchasing home furnishings.
58
Car Repair
IMPACT car repair service ensures continuous mobility for residents of Columbus and Franklin County by providing financial assistance for car repairs. This service gives individuals the opportunity to commute to work, access job opportunities, manage emergencies, and handle essential errands by maintaining a reliable vehicle
83
SUCCESS STORIES
CLIMATE JUSTICE
IMPACT Community Action and partners, The City of Columbus, Homeport, AEP Ohio, and Columbus residents have set a bold, environmental justice focused vision for the historic African American neighborhood of American Addition in Columbus, Ohio. The goal of the American Addition+ project will be the creation of the first African American net zero energy neighborhood in the country This goal will be achieved through a five stage process of equitable community engagement; deep energy efficiency retrofits for existing historic homes; net zero energy building design and construction; and workforce development – all in the American Addition neighborhood. DOE WAP Enhancement and Innovation funds will support deep energy efficiency retrofits for the existing 60 historic homes built before 2010. These primarily one-story and bungalow style homes date back to the early 1900s and are in varying states of repair, though most have not benefited from substantial update or renovation in decades. The funding will support limited structural and
home repairs to prepare homes for weatherization and provide deep energy efficiency retrofits.
The retrofit options will be based on audit analysis and will include measures such as insulation upgrades, air sealing technology, smart thermostat installation, solar panels, efficient appliance replacement, and heat pump installation in order to reduce energy consumption and energy burden for residents.
This funding also provides support for workforce development efforts connected to the deep energy efficiency retrofits. IMPACT administers the City funded Empowered! clean energy workforce development program, which blends classroom learning and community education on clean energy and energy efficiency, with a linkage to home weatherization and deep energy retrofits in Opportunity Neighborhoods. Successful graduates will be onboarded with a clean energy career that is high road and family sustaining.
Prior to beginning the deep energy efficiency retrofit work in the neighborhood, IMPACT hosts recruitment events in the American Addition area for the Empowered! program. The goal is to provide American Addition residents the opportunity to work or train on projects happening in their own community, and setting them on a path for a high road career and future economic security. The American Addition+ project is managed by a Project Director in collaboration with the American Addition Steering Committee, which consists of the aforementioned partners and more.
CHRYSTAL
Chrystal was 24 years old when she entered prison and 59 years old upon her release. Throughout her incarceration, she dedicated herself to personal growth and preparing for a more promising future. Upon her release, IMPACT provided the crucial support she needed. She successfully completed the Re-entry Work Readiness Program and R.E.D. Fish Academy. Moving forward, Chrystal aims to remain actively involved in helping others achieve and maintain restored citizenship. IMPACT gave her both a voice and the opportunity to use it effectively. She attributes her newfound self-confidence to the guidance and support provided by her facilitators. Today, Chrystal is restored, empowered, and resolutely determined.
Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance.”
- Robert F.
Kennedy
HOUSING PROGRAMS
RENTAL ASSISTANCE
The purpose of this service is to provide emergency financial assistance to prevent homelessness, and/or establish permanent housing for residence of Columbus and Franklin County.
2023 Eviction Prevention Families Served 4017
Dollar Amount
$14,909,992
HOUSING NAVIGATION PROGRAM
Housing Navigation Program utilizes the following evidenced-based methodologies: Person-Centered, Housing First and Motivational Interviewing to support, coordinate and leverage resources for households facing housing instability, eviction, and are at risk of homelessness.
Number of Households Enrolled in Housing Navigation in 2023
Total Families Served 70
HWAP
The Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP) provides eligible households with assistance to improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce their energy costs. Participating households in the HWAP will receive a home inspection to identify the services necessary and available to improve their home’s energy efficiency.
HWAP completed 164 units from July 1, 2022- June 30, 2023.
Clean Clothes served 191 households with Washer and Dryers
City Appliances served 47 households.
SELF SUFFICIENCY SERVICES
Our team works to be a relentless force in disrupting incarceration, poverty, and inequities by engaging participants to address trauma, find hope, and drive change.
Momentum is a three-week workforce development and training program. The program focuses on selfmanagement and introduces a holistic approach to personal and professional development. Participants also receive work readiness training, barrier removal, and employer connection which increases competency and prepares them for the workplace.
Provides cognitive tools, techniques and behavioral strategies to reduce economic dependency, increase household sustainability, and encourage asset development.
OTTO BEATTY MEN’S SHOP
The Otto Beatty Men’s Shop is dedicated to empowering men in Franklin County who are actively seeking employment by providing them with professional attire and coaching, as part of our job readiness programs to boost their confidence and help them secure and retain meaningful employment
MEN WHO RECEIVED SUITS 218
CDL TRAINING
Funded by the city of Columbus, this training program leads to career advancement by helping residents obtain a Class A CDL.
SIDE HUSTLE 101
An introductory micro-entrepreneurship program where you have the opportunity to earn additional income while maintaining your day job.
PARTICIPANTS WHO LAUNCHED A BUSINESS 53
EMPOWERED
With support from the City of Columbus, Empowered! creates pathways for young adults, with a focus on populations that have been historically underrepresented in the industry, including People of Color, Women and residents residing in Opportunity Neighborhoods. This program will serve as an entrée for young people to explore careers in the clean energy sector that will improve air quality, increase the comfort of our homes, and make our infrastructure stronger.
GRADUATES
BUILD UP CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM
Build Up offers comprehensive job and construction skills training to low income young adults in Franklin County, Ohio, and includes a nationally recognized construction accreditation certificate (a $2,600 value) as well as opportunities to network with local employers or apply for apprenticeships in the construction field upon graduation.
BUILD UP CORE CERTIFICATIONS RECEIVED
23
MEDICAL ASSISTANT PROGRAM
The Healthcare program will provide an opportunity for income-eligible individuals to participate in educational training that provides the knowledge necessary to become a Certified Medical Assistant.
CERTIFICATIONS
7
ACHIEVE MORE & PROSPER (A.M.P.)
The Achieve More and Prosper (A.M.P.) In-and Out of School Programs consists of comprehensive case management which will assist program participants in the area of paid work experiences, career-specific certifications, work readiness training, computer literacy, financial literacy, life skills, educational support, access to post-secondary education opportunities, and employability coaching.
In-School Youth 154
Out-Of-School Youth
191
IMPACT welcomes young people aged 14-18 to an afterschool program teaching life skills like career exploration, problem-solving, and money smarts, including investing in the stock market and entrepreneurial skills. The key idea: success in anything means thinking like an investor, especially when investing in yourself!
Boss Up - Afterschool FUNDING GIVEN TO START UP BUSINESSES
$7,500
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteers are integral to our organization and strengthen our capacity to serve families and individuals who are in need.
The purpose of our Volunteer Engagement Program is to draft, develop and deploy individuals who support the mission and vision of IMPACT Community Action.
Our volunteers will serve in a variety of ways, including:
Program Assistance which includes those who support programmatic and operational duties and special events
Strategic Assistance which includes IMPACT Advocates who support strategic advocacy efforts, as well as programmatic and operational duties
Professional Assistance which includes business professionals and other partners who lend their knowledge and expertise as in-kind contributions to the agency
Contact Lauren Marvin lmarvin@impactca.org
THE PEOPLE BEHIND
Aaron Robinette
Aiisha Robinson
Airreal Elliott
Amber King
Amina Mohamed
Anaya Williams
Andre Bumper
Andrea Brown
Angel Weatherspoon
Angelena Menefee
Anthony Robinette
Antonio Williams
Arielle Kline
Ashlee Abraham
Asia Davis
Beth Urban
Bo Chilton
Brandon Curry
Brandon Walls
Brittany White
Brittney Hutton
Carmen Allen
Catherine Estes
Chayce Watson
Chiquita Johnson
Christopher Moon
Christopher Smith
Chy-Lisa Conley
Ciera Shanks
Connie Purcell
Curuan Gossett
Cyann Pace
Dakota Morgan
Dana Brock
Daneshia Lewis
Daniel Collins II
Deborah Willison
Ebony Williams
Elizabeth McMaster
Emily Wilson McPhail
Employee Smith
Eric Brandon
Erik Kelley Gianna Bronston
Hannah Burns
Helena Brown
Isaac Spradling
Ja’Lan Walker
Jamaica Mackey
Jameka Humphries
Janice Vazquez
JaToria Broomfield
Jordan Bennett
Joshua Kessler
Juana McNair
Kaniqua Goodgame
Katherine Devlin
Keauna Marshall
Kee’sa Payne
Keith Kelley
Keith Queener
Kenyon Chambers
Keywana Hudson
BEHIND IMPACT
Kimberly Hightower
Kyera Carter
Lauren Marvin
Lindsay Damron
Lisa Ghee-Brown
Lisa Huynh
Lu Ann Topovski
Malcolm Wilford
Marcia White
Mark Rucker
Marlon Blue
Marlon Roberts
Marsha Strong
Marshan Copeland
Mary White
Matthew Richison
McLain Davis Jr
Michael Johnson
MiYanah Hale
Nevika Calhoun
Nicholas Heckathorn
Nicole Palmer
Nicollette Joseph
Nikkeya Carter
Nikkia Smith
Oliver Ward
Pamela Coulter
Paul Grimes
Phillonda Graham
Quankeya Nowlin
Renee Jones
Richard Bowe
Richard Dean
Robert Thoroughman
Sanetria Cain
Serenity Skipper
Shameikia Smith
Sharmaine Powell
Sheree Madison
Stephanie Robinson
Tashawna Thomas
Teresa Gary
Tia Ferguson
Tiera Brewer
Tnisha Coffee
Tommy Young
Toshia Estridge
Tracy Kirby
Tracy Revels
Treva Rice
Trevelyn Johnson
Trinity Brown
Tuere Nucklos
Turesa Prieto
Tyeisha Johnson
Tyler Bradford
Valerie McFarland
Vanessa Williams
William Freeman
William Surles
2023 total revenue was $31.1M, Federal passthrough grants accounted for $29.9M. Of this amount ($29.9M) $20.3M was for Rental and Utility Assistance. The remaining amounts of Federal grants were CSBG $2.9M, HWAP $2.7M, HEAP $2.8M, DOE $0.4M.
Of the $29.5M in expenses, $17.0M Rent Assistance/Utilities, $7.1M Salaries & Benefits, $1.4M Contracts, $1.0M Occupancy Costs, and $1.2M in Other Client Assistance.
Major assets for IMPACT were Cash of $6.6M, Accounts Receivable of $6.3M, and $4.2M in unused Building leases.
Major Liabilities for IMPACT were, Refundable Advances $9.3M and Building Leases $4.2M.
Net Assets are composed of $1.3M in Unrestricted Cash and $2.5M in Other Equity.
