This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Ohio Urban Community Action Network (OUCAN), an organization dedicated to addressing poverty in urban Ohio. The network was established in 1979 in Akron & Youngstown, Ohio, and was incorporated in 1985 to support agencies serving communities with deep, generational, and systemic issues.
For four decades, OUCAN has assisted member agencies in empowering their teams and addressing issues collectively through education, networking, and advocacy. Ohio has more large urban centers than any other state, making these diverse communities significant. OUCAN is also the nation’s oldest urban CAA network.
Over the years, OUCAN has expanded its reach to serve not only urban populations living in poverty but also rural and suburban populations facing similar challenges. In 2023, OUCAN communities included over 56 percent of all Ohioans, including more than 1 million residents living in poverty. OUCAN aims to enhance its impact through the following approaches:
- Board Governance & Succession Planning: Improve board governance and management through IT advancements, leadership development, and succession planning.
- Advocacy and Public Policy: Strengthen OUCAN’s voice in state public policy and legislation through community partnerships and advocacy efforts.
- Community Leadership and Engagement: Highlight OUCAN’s leadership role on local, state, and national platforms.
- Financial Health & Sustainability: Diversify revenue streams, mitigate business risks, and expand products and services.
- Member Benefits & Programming: Enhance training programs and events using effective frameworks, expert knowledge, and strategic alignment with clear performance goals.
We invite you to participate in this year's events and activities that focus on education, networking, and advocacy for policies promoting self-sufficiency. Upcoming events include the Member of the Month feature, Statewide Training: Board Governance on February 20, Economic Mobility Advocacy Day on March 19, and the Women’s Leadership Symposium on April 30 and May 1 at Hilton Polaris in Columbus.
OUCAN member organizations have deep community connections and long-term commitments, enabling them to implement impactful solutions. This dedication is crucial in tackling poverty and addressing the wealth gap. Your continued support is vital in our ongoing efforts.
