Message from the Executive Director

Greetings!

Welcome to the website of ASSIST Agency.  We are delighted to be able to present you with this online tour of our agency.  

ASSIST Agency is one of 42 community action agencies in the state of Louisiana and 972 agencies nationwide.  We are the nation’s largest federally assisted network of organizations whose sole purpose is to eliminate the cause and conditions of poverty.  Community Action Agencies were born when President Lyndon B. Johnson declared war on poverty in 1964 with the Economic Opportunity Act.  Each Community Action Agency is unique in that each one’s services are defined by the needs of its community.  

Each year ASSIST Agency continues to advance the causes of the poor and disadvantaged families in Southwest Louisiana.  Through our programs we have seen many lives changed for the better.  Each and every person affected by poverty has reason to hope because of community action agencies nationwide.

We have a very dedicated and effective board of directors who are our governing body that establishes policies and procedures that protect the rights of the poor.  Our staff is committed to the agency’s mission and the idea of alleviating poverty one family a time.  

We are fulfilling the Community Action Promise – ‘Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities, and makes America a better place to live.  We care about the entire community, and we are dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other.’

One of our primary focuses at this time is affordable housing.  In the aftermath of two very devastating hurricanes – Katrina and Rita – Louisiana was faced with a lack of adequate, affordable housing.  Three rental projects totaling 112 units will be placed in service in December 2007 and another project totaling 52 units will be placed in service in February 2008.  We’re excited for our families who will be able to enjoy the comforts of home this holiday season.  

Thanks again for visiting our website, and as usual if you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me sclement@ldol.state.la.us.

Sincerely,

 
Sharon Clement, Executive Director