Mobilizing Resources, Gaining Ground

Community Action Southwest

Mike Cumer

Mike Cumer became involved with Community Action Southwest in August 2002 when he enrolled his child in the Head Start Program. That seemingly simple act would have long-term impact on Mike's life. He became an active member of its Parent Committee and the Policy Council. He also participated in the Male Involvement Program, whose goals include strengthening the family, by recruiting fathers to participate in activities and events in which they normally would not participate.     

At the time, Mike was working for a local bus company. When he injured his back and was temporarily disabled, his life, and his ability to adequately care for his family, took a turn for the worse. Mike applied for federal disability benefits but was denied. He struggled to provide for his family, finally making a living by selling scrap metal.

While his child was enrolled in Head Start, Mike found help through other Community Action Southwest programs including the Family Self-Sufficiency and Family Development programs and the Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC). He also received utility assistance from the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Low Income Payment and Usage Reduction Program and the Dollar Energy Fund. Through the Male Involvement Program, Mike received training in parenting skills.  

Shortly thereafter, Mike began going to the temporary staffing agency Labor Ready in search of employment. For many months, Mike would arrive in the morning waiting to be assigned work for the day. The work provided him with a paycheck, but Mike hoped for full-time employment. He sought the services of Community Action Southwest to assist him in completing online applications and updating his resume.

In June 2007, his job searching efforts paid off. Labor Ready sent him to a local trucking company where he was offered full-time employment as a driver. Mike is now earning a living wage which has bolstered his confidence and self-esteem and has increased his level of self-sufficiency.

Throughout his ordeal, Mike remained self-motivated, dedicating a substantial amount of his free time to the Male Involvement Program. He continues to be a strong advocate for the program, contributing in numerous ways to its success. No matter what obstacles he has faced, Mike has remained steadfast in his dedication to Community Action Southwest.

Community Action Southwest works to identify the needs of those living in poverty in Washington and Greene counties and provides the programs and services they need to achieve self-sufficiency.