The mission of Community Action is to encourage self-sufficiency, while recognizing the need for personalized, direct services for residents faced with poverty or crisis.

Services available to residents include:

• Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
• Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP)
• Community Services Block Grant - Provides:

  • Information and referral
  • Small Business Loans
  • Drive to Success
  • Scholarships
  • Family Community Development

Information and Referral
Access to needed resources through a comprehensive information network. Referral to programs, which relieve many of the problems faced by the economically disadvantaged.

Small Business Loans
The Micro-Loan Program has been established to assist in financing micro- businesses for start up or expansion efforts.

Micro-business: any proprietorship, partnership or corporation that provides self-employment to borrower on a full-time, year-round basis and that provides employment for not more than five persons on a full-time and year-round basis.

Loans can be up to $20,000 at an interest rate not to exceed 5%. The interest rate will be a fixed rate for the term of the loan not to exceed five years.

For complete eligibility requirements and loan application, click here.

Drive to Success
This service is a partnership between Community Action and private donors to help low income individuals obtain reliable transportation for employment purposes. The most common barrier to finding and maintaining employment is affordable transportation.

Eligibility:
At the end of a 12 month period, the title will be signed over if the following conditions have been met-

• Continuous Employment
• A small monthly payment will be required for 12 months

Drive to Success may also help with car repairs if you:

• Complete an application
• Provide proof of employment
• Rely on this vehicle as your only means of transportation for work
• Provide car registration, proof of insurance, valid driver's license and letter of reference
• Pass a criminal background check
• Provide 2 repair estimates

If you have a vehicle you would like to donate to the Drive to Success program, please call Kendall-Grundy Community Action at (630) 553-9100.

Click here for a Drive to Success Application.

Scholarships
Scholarships are available to assist low-income individuals continue their education. Scholarships may be used for tuition and fees, textbooks, supplies, or room and board. Scholarship awards are made directly to the college or university's financial aid office for use by the student as needed.

Successful scholarship recipients must meet the following eligibility criteria: