Bridges Out of Poverty Workshops Teach How to Break the Cycle of Generational Poverty

(Canton, OH – May 10, 2018) United Way of Greater Stark County is offering training to help individuals and organizations understand and address the unique challenges created by economic diversity. The Bridges Out of Poverty workshop curriculum is relevant to employers, educators, community organizations, social service agencies and policy-makers who want to learn more about the fundamental causes and stigmas of poverty – while helping people overcome these challenges. Participants learn about the cycle of generational poverty through the examination of case studies, detailed analysis, helpful charts and exercises, and specific solutions that can be implemented in a variety of situations.

United Way of Greater Stark County’s Financial Stability Impact Council Director Robin Seemann is a workshop facilitator. She explains, “Reducing the social costs of poverty, strengthening the workforce, and building a more prosperous and sustainable community are goals on which most communities agree. The Bridges Out of Poverty workshops were developed to help employers, community organizations, social service agencies and individuals address and reduce poverty in a comprehensive way. Bridges brings people from all sectors and economic classes together to improve job retention rates, build resources, improve outcomes and support those who are moving out of poverty.”

The second workshop scheduled for this year will be held June 21st, 8:30AM-4:30PM at United Way of Greater Stark County offices (401 Market Avenue North, Suite 300, Canton, Ohio, 44702). The cost of the workshop is $35, which includes snacks, drinks and materials. All workshops are open to the public and participants will have a 60-minute lunch on their own. Quarterly brown bag discussions are also available to Bridges Out of Poverty training graduates in order to share successes and next steps for addressing community needs.

“Offering the Bridges Out of Poverty workshops is just one way we help break down barriers between socio-economic groups,” explains UWGSC President & CEO Maria Heege. “It is our job to provide useful tools for anyone interacting with people in poverty. This helps improve financial situations for individuals, which then benefits the entire community.”

If your business, agency or organization works with people living in poverty, a deeper understanding of their challenges – and strengths – can help you partner with them to create opportunities for success. A schedule of upcoming workshops is available at www.uwstark.org/bridges-out-poverty, or contact Robin Seemann at 330-491-9983 or [email protected].

About United Way of Greater Stark County

United Way of Greater Stark County fights for the Health, Education and Financial Stability of every person in every community. The agency collaborates, convenes, and partners to support programs and initiatives that break the cycle of poverty, promote a healthy community where children are successful from kindergarten through graduation to a career, and where families have the tools, skills, and support they need to become financially independent. We win by living United. For more information about United Way of Greater Stark County visit www.uwstark.org. Headquarters are at 401 Market Avenue North, Suite 300, Canton, Ohio 44702. (330) 491-0445.

###