OTOC is dedicated to improving the community by teaching people to take action on their own behalf. It has worked to improve youth programs, worker safety, and parental involvement in schools. OTOC has led efforts to reduce violence, replace sewers, and weatherize homes. It has promoted just wages and working conditions for employees of the meat processing industry.

Fr. Norman Hunke, a long-time OTOC leader, says, “Social justice is not an option, but a requirement for anyone who considers himself a Catholic.” CCHD funding is critical to OTOC’s overall success; grant money supports the salaries of key staff members and funds training programs to develop new leaders. According to Rosie Volkmer, an early OTOC leader, it is also a reminder ... Read More »

Ask before you donate. Find out what an organization needs most. It might surprise you.

Share your time and talents. Be candid about how much time you want to spend and how much you can do. It’ll make you a better volunteer.

Hunger is a year-round issues, and forces families to choose between food and other expenses. Donate goods to pantries.

Are you a volunteer? Find a way to share with others what you’ve learned about how to address poverty.

Inform others, share your knowledge and understanding. Invite a representative from a local anti-poverty organization to speak to your group.

Organize a letter-writing campaign for elected officials. They work!

Submit an article to a newsltter to your neighborhood organization or your faith community.

If you’re in school, hold a debate or a forum, to start a dialogue about poverty and find solutions.

Shop for good. Choose stores or services that support local groups.