Community Action Advisory Board (CAAB)

Mission Statement

A forum for policy on poverty and to assure that the issues of the poor are effectively heard and addressed, and to inspire self-sufficiency in individuals and families, respecting and recognizing their desire to make a change for themselves and their families.

History

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federal, anti-poverty block grant which funds the operations of a state-administered network of local agencies.

This CSBG network consists of agencies that create, coordinate and deliver programs and services to low-income Americans in 96 percent of the nation's counties. Link to National Web site

The City of San Antonio, Department of Human Services (DHS) is the designated Community Action Agency and the Community Services Block Grant eligible entity for Bexar County. The Department of Human Services (DHS) has also operated the Community Action Program (CAP) since 1979.

Roles of the Community Action Advisory Board

The Community Action Advisory Board (CAAB) acts in an advisory capacity to the City Council on the operation of the Community Action Program, and oversees the extent and quality of services to the poor.

Goal 1

Low-income people become more self–sufficient.

Goal 2

The conditions in which low-income people live are improved.

Goal 3

Low-income people own a stake in their community.

Goal 4

Partnerships among supporters and providers of service to low-income people are achieved.

Goal 5

Agency increases its capacity to achieve results.

Goal 6

Low-income people, especially vulnerable populations, achieve their potential by strengthening family and other supportive systems.

Membership

The Community Action Advisory Board is a federally mandated tripartite board comprised of 15 members as follows:

• (5) Representatives of the Poor
• (5) Representatives of Organizations
• (5) Elected Officials to include 4 City Council Members appointed by the Mayor, and 1 County Commissioner appointed by the County Judge.

Liaison: Carolyn Knight (210) 207-2128

CAAB Board Members

The Community Action Advisory Board Meetings are held the 1st Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Please call (210) 207-2128 for location.