CNA 2022-25 vFINAL 09202022 MASTER COPY - Flipbook - Page 8
incorporates the core principles of Community Action nationwide. One of these core principles is
that CAAs build local solutions to address local needs. In other words, CAAs are expected to base
their strategies and priorities for services and advocacy on the needs and strengths in their
communities. This is one of the essential and very special characteristics of the national
Community Action network; we do not take a cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all approach. We are
deeply embedded in and responsive to the communities we serve. Aligned with that, we all
receive funding from the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) that is very flexible and can be
used to respond to emergent needs, support administrative infrastructure, or fill in gaps in
funding in state or federal contracts.
Two other fundamentals of Community Action are maximizing the involvement of people with
low income in the governance and development of the organization and soliciting input from a
variety of sectors in the broader community. ROMA is about promoting change for individuals
and families, as well as communities, in a way that is directed by them. This is why all
Community Action Agencies have Boards that are at least one-third people who have direct
experience living with low income.
THE ROMA CYCLE
and resources documented in the community assessment.
To assist CAAs with using the
ROMA cycle in their settings, the
Office of Community Services
within the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services
developed Organizational
Standards that all CAAs must
meet.1 These standards spell out
how the core principle of
promoting change for
individuals, families, and
communities, in a way that is
directed by them, should be put
into action. A community needs
assessment required every three
years, is one of the major
elements of the process, followed
by strategic planning. The
agency9s chosen strategic goals
must be tied to the local needs
In addition, the methodology of Pro Action9s Community Needs Assessment must also comply
with the requirements of the Office of Head Start2 and the New York State Office for the Aging3
1
https://communityactionpartnership.com/organizational-standards/
https://eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/policy/45-cfr-chap-xiii/1302-11-determining-community-strengths-needsresources, Performance Standard 1302.11
3 NEW YORK STATE OFFICE FOR THE AGING (ny.gov)
2
Pro Action of Steuben and Yates, Inc. Community Needs Assessment 2022 – 2025
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