Innovative program pairs low- and middle-income class members to tackle poverty issues.

The Circles Initiative, introduced in 2007 by Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing, focuses on a simple approach to tackle issues facing many low-income families in the community—communication.

This community impact program connects low-income people with "allies" in the middle- and upper-class, and together the two groups mentor each other as they both learn strategies of success.

Lou Seipel, Director of Supportive Services for Community Properties of Ohio Management Services, shares more about the Circles Initiative in this interview, featured in the October issue of The Columbus Foundation e-News.

(Length: 5 min 38 sec)

Heather McLeod Grant is the co-author of Forces for Good: the Six Practices of High Impact Nonprofits, and a frequent speaker on social entrepreneurship, nonprofit leadership, and strategic philanthropy. According to Ms. Grant, "real social change happens when organizations go outside their own walls and find creative ways to enlist the help of others." A Stanford educator, her presentation centers on helping you shift the focus from building the nonprofit organization to building a movement and adopting the mindset of the entrepreneur.

This podcast was recorded September 11, 2008, as part of our Nonprofit Forum. Introduction by Sandi Smith, Senior Community Research and Grants Management Officer at The Columbus Foundation. Presentation by Heather McLeod Grant. 

(Length: 50 minutes)

The Nonprofit Forum offers you opportunities for learning, engaging, and participating in dialogue on a range of topics. You'll find tools and resources, access to experts and thought leaders, and opportunities for important peer-to-peer exchanges. For more information call 614/251-4000.