CAP Services celebrates 60 years

STEVENS POINT – CAP Services, Inc., a non-profit community action agency based in Stevens Point, celebrated its 60th year of service on May 12. Incorporated in 1966 as the Central Wisconsin Economic Opportunity Committee, Inc., the agency’s initial service area included Portage, Waushara and Marquette counties. The organization changed its name to CAP Services, Inc. in 1975 and expanded to include Waupaca County in 1978 and Outagamie County in 1991.
CAP’s mission is to transform people and communities to advance social and economic justice. The agency offers two dozen programs tailored to the unique conditions of the local community, ensuring that every person has the opportunity to be successful.
“As we launch our 60th year of service, I want to express my deep gratitude for the dedication of so many board members, staff, volunteers, and partners who have contributed to our work over time,” said Nicole Harrison, President & CEO of CAP.

Since CAP’s inception in 1966:
• 600+ entrepreneurs have received assistance in starting or expanding a business.

• 1,500+ families have accessed loans to purchase or repair homes.
• 600+ affordable rental housing units are available.
• 11,300+ children achieved school readiness through our early childhood programs.
• 1,000+ adults have improved their job skills, increasing their annual earnings by an average of more than $14,000 (a total impact of more than $14.6 million).

New grant funding

CAP Services has been awarded a grant from the Prospera Foundation Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley area. This grant will be used to support CAP’s Skills Enhancement program, addressing the need for continuing education that contributes to financial stability. Specifically, these grant funds will be used to support tuition and training-related costs for individuals who otherwise could not afford to pursue training on their own.
The Skills Enhancement Program helps working adults improve their skills in order to compete for higher-paying jobs. CAP assists with the cost of tuition, books, and training-related transportation, internet service, and childcare. Staff also connects program participants to resources that make it easier for them to complete their training goal. Individuals can choose the training path (associate degree or less) that best matches their interests and abilities.