About Us
Through Getting Ahead workshops
and the Staying Ahead Network
we aspire to deplete Beaver County of poverty
one person at a time.
Opportunity
&
Community
Getting Ahead Workshops
offer under-resourced individuals an opportunity to form new relationships,
gain tools to increase resources, and create a strategic plan
to build a more prosperous and stable life.
The Staying Ahead Network
supports the continued progress of GA workshop graduates
by nurturing strategic relational connections (e.g. friendship, coaching,
and apprenticeships) as well as providing additional classes and resources.
Outcomes
[From national data surveying 1,697 graduates]
55% increased monthly income
50% decreased monthly debt
51% decreased total debt
44% increased assets
22% increased stable housing, a
24% improvement paying bills
16% increased job stability
27% improvement managing stress.
39% decreased use of gov't benefits
Our Approach
Getting Ahead Beaver County
offers a mechanism for progress
for individuals, families,
and whole communities.
It was born of a desire
to support what already exists,
complement rather than duplicate
other projects,
and collaborate with others
as often as possible.
Our Team
Erik Kerr, Project Director
Erik joined Beaver County's constellation of amazing nonprofits and social service agencies in the spring of 2021, after 25 years working as a musician and pastor in a church context. Hired by Lifesteps as a Family Support Specialist, Erik gained valuable experience, training in Motivational Interviewing, and knowledge of the many resources available to struggling people in Beaver County. When he learned about the Getting Ahead workshop, Erik recognized a unique opportunity to help under-resourced people build a more stable and prosperous life for themselves. As the Project Director, Erik works directly with workshop participants, graduates, community partners, and volunteers.
Dave Novak, Advising Director
Dave, an entrepreneur and successful businessman, brings extensive knowledge and experience to his role as Advising Director. While he is content to work behind the scenes, helping with organizational leadership and strategic planning, he is resolute in his commitment to help others to find their way to a better life. Born and raised in Ambridge, Dave is on a mission to see Beaver County thrive.