Building a friendship with someone in poverty will have a life-changing effect on you both. Circles Ashland gathers middle-income and high-income volunteers to connect with and support families in poverty. Surrounded by people who have landed jobs, negotiated a lease, or managed credit card debt, for example, people experiencing poverty are more equipped to achieve long-term financial stability.
At Circles, participants are called “Circle Leaders,” and volunteers are called “Allies.” After both groups receive training, two Allies are matched with every Circle Leader. These intentional friendships are the foundation of the Circles model. Circle Leaders set their own goals and run the weekly meetings. As an Ally, your job is to listen, ask questions, and make suggestions. You’ll help Circle Leaders use their unique gifts and skills to reach their goals, and Circle Leaders will help you understand poverty in your community.
As a Circle Ally, you'll
Commit 4-10 hours a month to support their Circle Leader
Attend meetings at least once a month (Thursdays, 5:30PM-7:30PM, dinner and childcare provided)
