Circles has two goals: (1) to help individuals and families get out of poverty and (2) to remove the barriers that keep people in poverty. Our success depends upon building strong connections to people and resources within our community. We gather middle- and higher-income volunteers who befriend, encourage, and support families on their own paths out of poverty. These intentional friendships help those seeking long-term stability to find the information and build the human capacity that allow families and communities to thrive.

Circles isn’t about quick fixes or handouts. Circles is a long-term program that equips families and individuals with the relationships, confidence, skills, and knowledge required to be self-reliant. As part of Circles USA, our Utah Valley chapter opened in 2011 and has since become a leader in fighting poverty and empowering those seeking financial independence to become strong and resilient members of our community.

Circle Leaders are low-income individuals who are trying to leave poverty and are committed to working towards financial stability. They attend weekly meetings, beginning with a 12-week course in which they learn SMART goal setting, budgeting, and life skills, then create a plan to achieve financial stability. (Dinner and children’s programming are provided weekly.) They continue coming each week for a minimum of 18 months to receive support from Coaches, Allies, and Peers to accomplish their goals. Through this accountability process, Circle Leaders are able to increase income, decrease debt, and get off public assistance. They graduate from Circles when they have reached their financial goals and are able to maintain stability.