Action, Inc. is a Community Action Program that works to promote economic security, not dependency. Action helps the low-income and working poor on Cape Ann and beyond in a number of unique ways.

Comprehensive & Innovative Solutions

As a private, 501 (c) 3, charitable and locally run organization, Action has the flexibility to design programs that address needs specific to individuals and to Cape Ann. Action provides services that address the full range of family needs, from youth and adult employment and training, to housing and job placement, to budget counseling, to services for seniors and the frail elderly. Integrated service delivery is tailored to individual circumstances. Action's programs are also designed to strengthen the local economy and develop Cape Ann's infrastructure.

In response to local needs, Action has also led the development of many other programs that serve our community today, including Child Development Programs, Gloucester Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, Senior Home Care, Retired and Senior Volunteer Programs and the Central Grammar Apartments.

Action serves over 3,000 households on Cape Ann and Ipswich annually (over 5,000 individuals), and through energy affordability programs serves up to 10,000 households statewide. The agency is also one of Cape Ann's largest employers, with more than 100 employees.

Click here to read about the history of Action, Inc.

Governance

Action has a tripartite governing board consisting of equal parts of private sector, public sector, and low-income representatives from Cape Ann and Ipswich. This structure brings together leaders from each of these sectors to collaborate on responses tailored to local needs.

Click here for a list of our Board of Directors. 

Funding Sources

Action receives support from government agencies as well as private donors and businesses. Action is the designated grantee for the Community Services Block Grant. For every dollar from our central, federal funding, Action leverages over $50 in other funding sources, including town contributions, state and federal grants, corporate partnerships and donations from hundreds of individuals.

Action maintains low administrative costs and only 4% of our budget goes to overhead expenses. Comparable organizations spend an average of 10% on overhead. Action's resources are invested directly in the community, not in fundraising or in bureaucracy.

Emergency Response

Action responds quickly when a family or individual is in crisis to avoid costly, long-term problems. This includes energy assistance, emergency shelter, emergency rental assistance and housing advocacy. While emergency services are the largest category of our service, the highest priority is helping people achieve permanent economic security.

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