Uplift People of Elk Grove

Uplift People of Elk Group 101

Uplift People of Elk Grove offers a program that serves individuals and families that are caught in the cycle of poverty (we call them Champions).

Currently we are a team of about 90 comprised of community leaders, elected and appointed officials, volunteers, and program participants. We connect with affiliates throughout the country regularly to share resources and provide each other with coaching and valuable support. We bring together people from across class lines, ethnicities, and other traditional barriers. The program fosters friendships and mutual support as we journey together toward wholeness.

We break down our program into three separate phases.

In the first phase of the program (the Educational Phase) relationships take root as we make our way through curriculum created by NETworX (a nationwide movement working to break the cycles of poverty). The curriculum is based on the concepts found in the book “Bridges Out Of Poverty” by Ruby Payne. We cover topics that focus on understanding the reasons we can get stuck in the cycle of poverty and identify ways out. Some of the topics we cover include trauma, locust of control, hidden class rules, budgeting, healthy relationships and creating abundance in community. Our Champions in Phase 1 receive a grocery gift card to help off set expenses. Phase 1 takes approximately 9 months and upon completion Champions are honored in a graduation ceremony.

In the second phase (the Goal Setting Phase) relationships grow as we work together on setting and meeting individual goals. Champions are paired up with a team of Allies that focus on goal setting. Presentations and workshops are provided that support Champions in their goal setting. Topics include cash flow management, career opportunities, how to apply for a State job, eating healthy on a budget, interview skills, the hidden job market, meditation, writing a resume etc…

In the third phase (the Giving Phase) our focus and goals shift outward and seek to improve the larger community through giving back and reciprocity. Champions are connected with opportunities to give back to their community in ways that match their passions and talents.

The entire program takes about 36 months to complete but can vary based on the participant.

Uplift's Weekly Community Meeting

Our Community Meeting is the center point of most of our activity.

We meet once a week on Tuesday nights on the campus at The Elk Grove Untied Methodist Church. Our weekly Community Meetings include dinner, fellowship, educational curriculum, presentations and workshops. We provide childcare and young adult programs. We celebrate birthdays, holidays and special occasions whenever possible.

Every Community Meeting includes a group sharing that focuses on the new and good things that have happened over the past week and a group recognition of the qualities we appreciate in every person and how they contribute to the bigger picture.

Memories from Uplift's 2nd Graduation Ceremony

Breaking old habits is a difficult process and one that is not natural for us. In fact our brain is wired to resist change. But to create change we have to move out of our comfort zone.

Uplift People of Elk Grove www.upliftelkgrove.org