WE RISE BY LIFTING OTHERS

The Community Services Office, in partnership with the community, will focus on strengthening the educational, social, and economic well-being of individuals and families as they move toward economic independence and self-sufficiency.

A future where the vulnerable individuals and families we serve will attain a standard of living above the established federal poverty guidelines.

An unwavering commitment to take action in helping to change the fortunes of those coping with extenuating and unfortunate circumstances.

OUR HISTORY

Community Services Office is one of 15 Community Action Agencies throughout Arkansas State, and more than 1,000 in the nation. For more than 57 years, CSO has provided local solutions to local problems by engaging community partners in helping people living in poverty strengthen their lives. We remain proud of our work in being a voice for those without a voice, and advocating for self-sufficiency.

COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAM JOURNEY

1964

The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 authorized the formation of local Community Action Agencies as part of the War of Poverty.

1981

The Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1981 consolidated programs under the Economic Opportunity Act under the New Community Services Block Grant.

2022

The Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2022, if approved, will reauthorize the program for a decade, and for the first time since 1998.

1964

1981

2022

The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 authorized the formation of local Community Action Agencies as part of the War of Poverty.

The Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1981 consolidated programs under the Economic Opportunity Act under the New Community Services Block Grant.

The Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2022, if approved, will reauthorize the program for a decade, and for the first time since 1998.

WE'RE HERE TO HELP!

Leslie Paschal-Barnes, Executive Director, CEO

We are a team of passionate individuals honored to serve our community as one of the most forward-thinking Community Action Agencies in the entire country. In addition to our hardworking staff, we are supported by a dedicated and results-driven board of directors. Each board member brings a unique perspective to the table. We invite you to get to know us.

Leadership Team

Board of Directors

Leslie Paschal Barnes, Executive Director

Ken Newberry, Chief Financial Officer

Jenny Martinez, Chief of Staff/Staff Accountant

Phyllis Fowler, Accounts Payable

Adam Rodgers, Fiscal Specialist

Helen Oliver, Human Resources Director

Yolanda Morgan, ERSEA/PFCE/FSW Director

Deborah Harp, Special Projects Director

Shawneese Singleton, EHSCCP Director

Yesenia Castillo, CSBG Director

George Biggs, LIHEAP Director

Sonia Nash, Quality Assurance Director

Ashlee French, Compliance Manager

Alexandria Crutchfield, H/MH/D Director

Greg Craig, Field Operations/Emergency Management/STEAM Director

Dee Coleman, Nutrition Director

Jazmyne Pinkins, Program Manager

Rosalina Guadarrama, Program Manager

Marco Cruz, Custodial/Maintenance/ Transportation Director

Minnie Lenox, Board President

Debra Dukes, Board Vice-President

Charles Smith, Treasurer

Debra Dukes, Secretary

Brandon Darden

Linda Branim, Early Childhood Expert

Eddie Brown

Garland Puckett

Steven S. Mays Sr.

Deborah Ugbade, Elected Official

Shannon Carroll, Legal Expert

Terri Helms , Early Childhood Expert

Sarah Smith, Elected Official

Let us be a part of your success story