By Morgan Bryce
Editor
Additional “allies” are needed to help Circles of Opelika further its long-term mission of eliminating poverty in the area.
Created in 2018, Circles of Opelika is modeled after the national program Circles USA. Those who enroll in the program are with an “Ally,” an middle to upper-class person who is willing to dedicate time and form an “intentional friendship” with a family or individual in poverty that lives, works or worships in Opelika.
After completing a short training session, Allies are paired with a Circles participant and will begin getting to know them and be able to provide support as they work through the program. They are also asked to attend two weekly meetings each month, which are normally held every Thursday evening at the Southside Center for the Performing Arts.
According to a flier posted on the Circles of Opelika Facebook page, “volunteers who serve as an Ally will have the opportunity to work closely with one family and make a real difference in their own backyard. Allies have the unique chance to build meaningful relationships across class lines and witness the impact of their work firsthand. Allies become a part of the Circles community and can serve as individuals, couples or families.”
Because of COVID-19, all Circles events and programs have moved to being held virtually on Zoom.
For more information or more on how to get involved, call Circles of Opelika Director Regina Meadows at 334-203-1860 or visit www.circlesopelika.org.