ABOUT US
OUR STORY
The Beaufort Economic Opportunity Commission, Inc. began as a Neighborhood Youth Corps Program, under the sponsorship of the Charleston County Economic Opportunity Commission; which, at the time was directed by James Clyburn who is now a U.S. Congressman. The Corporation’s Charter Date is March 11, 1966; hence, the Agency has been operating within the State of South Carolina since 1966.
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On the site of gambling, everyone can find a slot machine to their liking. However, progress has not been easy. There have been many disappointments, crises, funding cuts and much opposition; however, when needed, we have been able to come together and work together to realize many successful achievements.
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Over the past 54 years, the Beaufort Economic Opportunity Commission in Beaufort has brought over 30 million dollars into the local area. This money was, primarily, for the purpose of implementing innovative and creative approaches to fighting the war on poverty. It cannot go unnoticed as to how the granted funds helped to stimulate the local economy of Beaufort and Jasper Counties.
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Our most successful efforts have been in the provision of improved human services, including Employment and Job Training Assistance, Housing Assistance, Transportation Assistance, Pre-School Educational and Nutritional Programs, Emergency and Energy Assistance, Community Organization and Issues Awareness, and Career Enhancement Assistance. Perhaps, even more important are our less tangible accomplishments; such as, continuing to serve as an advocate for the socio-economically disadvantaged of our area.
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Beaufort-Jasper Economic Opportunity Commission is to plan and implement human service programs for socially and economically challenged individuals. The agency will advocate on behalf of our customers in such a manner that their quality of life will be enhanced and less dependent upon governmental services; with the ultimate goal being, to have them become self-sufficient and productive citizens.
OUR PURPOSE
To provide our customers with a vehicle for the achievement and maintenance of family stability and economic self-sufficiency. The funds we receive from federal, state, and local public and private sources will be to address the areas of employment, housing, health, and nutrition, education and training, social services, emergency assistance, economic development, and effective community relations; all of which can impact, in a positive manner, on the successful quality of life for our customers.
South Carolina Governor Signs Proclamation Declaring May As Community Action Month
The month of May is National Community Action Month. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed the month of May as South Carolina Community Action Month across the state. The SC Community Action and Head Start Network will celebrate Community Action Agencies' impact on the lives of individuals, youth, and families in their local communities. The Community Action Agencies offer a variety of services to the citizens of South Carolina like: Head Start, Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), Weatherization Assistance, Money Management, Healthcare, Housing, Job Training, and Youth Leadership Development Programs are examples of programs hosted by the Community Action Networks to promote self-sufficiency to families in need South Carolina.
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On August 20, 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Economic Opportunity Act, which created various programs, including Community Action Agencies, as part of his War on Poverty. He knew then, as we know now, that the war against poverty must be won in the field, in every private home and public Office, from the courthouse to the White House.
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In 1965, SC Community Action Network was established to wage the war on poverty by promoting self-sufficiency for those of limited income, ensuring that all residents can live in dignity by implementing innovative and cost-effective programs to improve the lives and living conditions of the impoverished; and by providing support and instruction for everyone in need of assistance.
In 1965, SC Community Action Network was established to wage the war on poverty by promoting self-sufficiency for those of limited income, ensuring that all residents can live in dignity by implementing innovative and cost-effective programs to improve the lives and living conditions of the impoverished; and by providing support and instruction for everyone in need of assistance.
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Click here for additional information visit the:
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National Community Action Partnership (NCAP)
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South Carolina Association of Community Action Partnerships, Inc.
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Credit: South Carolina Association of Community Action Partnerships (SCACAP)
The Promise of Community Action
Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live. We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.