With every interaction we have, we are reminded that the neighbors we work with are parents, spouses, students, colleagues, supervisors … juggling ALL of the things that day-to-day life throws at everyone one of us plus they are facing financial uncertainty.

Getting Ahead is a “kitchen-table” style workshop, where participants meet 16 times, for three hours. They share a meal and learn to build resources in their life, gain the support to make a positive difference in their life, and learn that money is only one of 11 factors that affect self-sufficiency. Bluffton Self Help’s Getting’ Ahead program is structured so that every participant contributes to the work being done and plays a part in one another’s journey. The participants form new supportive relationships and uncover different perspectives for navigating through life. Upon completion of the program, participants gain an understanding of the realities of the conditions in their lives and in the community. They learn how to build resources and connections to get ahead. The graduates gain new knowledge and the confidence to have a voice to influence our community — and they bring all of that knowledge and confidence home to their families.