EightCAP Inc., a community action agency, marked its 60th anniversary this month, celebrating decades of dedicated service in Gratiot, Ionia, Isabella, and Montcalm counties. Established in 1966 as part of a national initiative to combat poverty, EightCAP has delivered essential programs aimed at fostering independence and improving the quality of life for local residents.
The organization’s broad range of services includes housing assistance, early childhood education, emergency bill support, and senior services. President Lori Johnson emphasized the importance of relationships in EightCAP’s mission. “This anniversary is about more than looking back; it’s about honoring the people, families, staff, volunteers, and partners who have been part of our journey,” Johnson stated.
Amy O’Brien, EightCAP’s Communications and Development Director, noted that the agency has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of the community. “Grounded in compassion and driven by collaboration, EightCAP remains committed to helping people achieve stability, opportunity, and self-sufficiency,” she said.
Longstanding Commitment to Volunteerism
EightCAP’s impact is deeply rooted in volunteerism. The organization boasts a dedicated workforce, with many employees serving for two decades or more. Notable figures include Rosie Fisk, who has been with EightCAP for 46 years, and Joan Tobias, a foster grandparent volunteer contributing for 26 years. Historical contributions from individuals like former president Ralph Loeschner, who led the agency from 1978 to 2004, illustrate a longstanding commitment to community service.
Throughout its history, EightCAP has responded to local needs by expanding its services. Originally founded during the “War on Poverty,” the agency has evolved to address both immediate challenges and long-term barriers to success. O’Brien remarked, “Through collaboration, compassion, and accountability, EightCAP continues to help individuals and families build stability, opportunity, and lasting self-sufficiency.”
Addressing Community Needs and Challenges
Over the years, EightCAP has adapted its programs to meet the changing landscape of community needs. The agency has expanded its offerings to include early childhood education, housing support, and services for seniors and veterans. Currently, EightCAP serves 426 children and 384 families through its Head Start and Early Head Start programs, providing vital education and support to families in need.
In addition to education, EightCAP has played a significant role in housing assistance. The agency has provided emergency assistance to 613 individuals, amounting to over $1.27 million in support for housing stability and homelessness prevention. O’Brien highlighted the agency’s collaborative efforts, stating, “Through the SSVF program, EightCAP also helped 59 veterans secure or maintain housing, providing $60,645 in housing assistance and supportive services.”
Despite facing challenges such as economic downturns and rising housing costs, EightCAP has remained resilient. The organization continues to listen to community needs and adapt its services to provide meaningful support. O’Brien noted, “The agency was designed to be flexible and community-driven, adjusting programs and services as local challenges, economic conditions, and family needs shifted over time.”
As EightCAP celebrates its 60th anniversary, it reflects on the impact it has made in the lives of individuals and families across the region. With a strong foundation built on compassion and accountability, the agency is poised to continue its mission of empowering communities and fostering self-sufficiency for years to come.
EightCAP Inc. remains dedicated to its vision of creating pathways to stability and success for all. For more information about its programs and services, visit 8cap.org or call (866) 754-9315.
