Boone County Commission News Release

Boone County Community Services Department Hosts Upward Mobility Plan Community Update and Poverty Simulation Event

COLUMBIA, Mo. (August 29, 2024) - The Boone County Community Services Department is proud to host the Boone County Upward Mobility Plan Community Update and Poverty Simulation on Friday, September 6, 2024. The event will take place from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Forum Christian Church, 3900 Forum Blvd, Columbia, Missouri.

The Boone County Upward Mobility Action Plan (MAP), released in the spring of 2022 with funding support from the Urban Institute, features three distinct workgroups: Jobs and Workforce Development, Fair and Inclusive Housing, and Early Grade Literacy. These groups, while focusing on different yet interconnected aspects of upward mobility, are each designed to advance efforts to alleviate poverty in Boone County. They outline strategic goals, actions, and target outcomes with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, accessibility, and the empowerment of individuals and families facing economic challenges. The Community Update will celebrate the achievements of the Boone County Workgroups over the past year and outline the next steps in the continued efforts to enhance upward mobility within our community. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the progress made and the future plans to address local challenges.

A highlight of the event will be the Poverty Simulation, facilitated by Central Missouri Community Action. Event attendees will have the opportunity to participate in this immersive experience, which aims to offer participants a deeper understanding of the realities faced by those living in poverty, thereby fostering empathy and motivating collective action to support upward mobility initiatives.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, September 6, 2024
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: Forum Christian Church, 3900 Forum Blvd, Columbia, Missouri
To attend, please register through the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/957430318857.

We invite community members, local leaders, and all interested parties to join us for this impactful event. Your participation will contribute to shaping a more inclusive and supportive environment for all residents.

For additional information, please contact:

Verna Laboy, Program Manager - Upward Mobility
Boone County Community Services Department
vlaboy@boonecountymo.org
(573) 886-4298

About Boone County Community Services Department:

The mission of the Boone County Community Services Department is to support the greatest possible level of independence and self-sufficiency of Boone County residents by promoting their physical, mental, and social well-being to cultivate a safe and healthy community.

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