Poverty Training Resources
As a member of the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies (IACAA), you gain access to specialized tools, training, and support designed to empower your agency to make a lasting impact on individuals and communities.
IACAA is dedicated to supporting its members with the latest training programs, advocacy efforts, and comprehensive assistance for program development, ensuring that all agencies have the resources they need to succeed.
By being part of IACAA, you can:
Access exclusive poverty training resources
Gain Access to IACAA Academy where you’ll find many educational materials specifically designed to assist you in addressing the needs of low-income families and communities.
Receive technical assistance
IACAA offers expert guidance on implementing new programs and navigating complex regulatory requirements.
Weatherization specialist services
As a member of the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies, you can contract with our Weatherization Specialist to provide assessments and staff training to help your agency complete weatherization on homes, including during periods of staff turnover.
Participate in Specialized Training Opportunities
IACAA’s training programs focus on the unique needs of Illinois communities, providing targeted poverty training resources in areas like:
- Trauma-informed care
- Customer Service
- Community Data Analysis
- Community Development Training
- Community Action Plan Preparation
- Community Needs Assessment Consultation
- Results-oriented management and accountability (ROMA) - new staff
- Advanced ROMA Consultation
- Team building
- Leadership Development Training
- Fiscal Training, Support and Consultation
- Succession Planning
Don’t see the poverty training resource you need on this list? Contact us! From meeting facilitation to keynote speaking, we can create training to captivate and inform your audience with engaging content that clearly communicates your message.
Family and Community Development Specialist Training
The Family and Community Development Specialist (FCD) program, developed by the Illinois Association of Community Action Agencies (IACAA) and the University of Illinois – Springfield, equips professionals with the skills to support individuals and families in achieving stability. Since 1994, it has provided training in poverty awareness, cultural competency, goal setting, and trauma-informed care.
Who It’s For:
The program is tailored for those working directly with individuals and families within the Illinois Community Action Network, focusing on creating sustainable change.
What to expect:
- Online Courses: Covering topics such as the history of poverty and community action, goal setting, and customer service.
- Virtual Training (via Zoom): Topics include DEI basics, strength-based approaches, and trauma-informed care.
- In-Person Training: A full-day in-person session in Springfield, IL, focusing on practical skills like strength-based coaching, motivational interviewing, and scenario-based training.
Find Tools for Advisory and Governing Boards
Our comprehensive training opportunities are designed to help Community Action Agencies build capacity, strengthen leadership, and improve services. Whether you need foundational knowledge or advanced consultation, our customizable programs will ensure your agency is ready to meet its goals.
Contact us today to learn more about our training opportunities and to schedule a session for your team!
Organizational Standards Training for Boards
How to Read Financial Statements
Head Start Board Responsibilities
Custom Board Orientation Training
Board Duties and Responsibilities
IACAA Academy
IACAA’s online learning management system provides accessible, high-quality training for Community Action Agencies. It offers a range of courses on key topics, including poverty awareness, leadership development, and family engagement. IACAA Academy supports continuous professional growth and organizational excellence with user-friendly navigation and engaging content.
