Why I Decided to Become a Certified Community Action Professional

By Heather Cross 
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Coming to the decision to pursue the Certified Community Action Professional certification, as many things in my life, came through a twisty-turny path. As is the case with others I have heard from, my career path did not start with any connection to Community Action. My positions have mostly been in accounting and finance and have included a short tenure at the IRS, many years as a casino auditor in Las Vegas, and a manager for a conservation district in rural Colorado. None of these positions exposed me to the arena of community action in any way, shape, or form.  

A few years ago, I needed a change and applied for a part-time position with El Paso County as a grant specialist for CSBG. I did a bit of research for the position, which provided a small glimpse into community action, and how individuals serving in this arena were making meaningful impacts. I was intrigued. My deeper education began when I was offered the position and began learning about the CSBG program, and the community action movement. I was excited to be starting a path into such a movement. In the past few years, I have learned a lot about poverty and those who tirelessly fight it.  

I recently heard about the Certified Community Action Professional certification program. As I looked into what that program entails, I found that it provides an opportunity to learn even more and become a part of the poverty fighters across this country. So, I submitted my application and just received the email confirmation that I have been accepted into the program. I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge and gaining a deeper understanding of how I can be a small part of a big movement seeking to improve the situation of so many individuals who just need a hand to become self-sustaining.