At the time my knowledge of the CSO and about Community Action Agencies was very slim to nothing at all. Well, I accepted Malcolm’s invitation and boy, oh boy, I feel as if I’ve discovered a hidden gem.
What I’ve learned is that CSO and its counterpart, the Union-Snyder Community Action Agency, create a literal ‘safety net’ for individuals and families of our valley who are passing through transitions and often a ‘little down on their luck.’
Our Chamber mission is the prosperity of commerce, communities, culture, and citizens of the Greater Susquehanna Valley.
The mission of CSO and our nation’s Community Action Agency network is to provide services to children, families, and individuals which create pathways to opportunity and prosperity. In other words, poverty prevention and recovery.
What I know for sure and based on my experience as a CSO Board Member, is that poverty anywhere is a threat to prosperity everywhere. Our Chamber’s and CSO’s mission are interdependent and I’m happy to report that our partnership is robust and growing.
Back to National Community Action Month and the activities that the CSO has planned for this month which include an Open House at their Sunbury offices this Friday, May 12th from 9:00 am-3:00 pm. A Resource Fair will be held at the Watsontown Comprehensive Treatment Center located at 759 Susquehanna Trail north of Watsontown from 12 Noon-3 pm on Wednesday, May 24th. The next day, on Thursday, May 25th from 12 Noon-3 pm, CSO will host a Meet-and-Greet to review resources and obtain service information at the Berwick YMCA located at 231 W. 3rd Street in downtown Berwick. To learn more about any of these events or the good work that the CSO staff members do every day, please visit: censop.com.
The need for Community Action has never been greater. These important agencies in our own backyards change people’s lives, embody the spirit of hope, improve our communities, and make our valley and all America a better place to live. CSO’s mascot SUNNY (who is available to visit your organization, if invited) uplifts us all with the reminder that: Our Best Days Lie Just Ahead.
