What Do We Do?
CAPLAW's Vision
- A dynamic national network of community organizations that empower individuals to overcome the effects of poverty and thrive.
CAPLAW's Mission
- To eliminate poverty by strengthening the legal and management capacity of community organizations.
CAPLAW's Values
- Integrity
- Accountability
- Inclusion
- Innovation
- Excellence
- Collaboration
CAPLAW's Role
- CAPLAW is the national legal expert for the Community Action network. Through consultations, training and resources, we equip Community Action Agencies (CAAs) with the knowledge and tools to operate as accountable and effective change agents. We also provide guidance to federal, state and national Community Action partners on legal and financial issues affecting CAAs.
What is Community Action?
- For over 50 years, since the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 established the Community Action Program, CAAs have been working to strengthen low-income communities and to help low-income individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency and economic security. Nationwide, over 1,000 CAAs use their core Community Services Block Grant funding to leverage almost $10 billion in total funding; provide a multitude of services – such as job training, Head Start, housing, economic development and transportation; and advocate on economic security issues.