The Mission of PLCCA is to advocate for social change. We feel this can be accomplished by “Promoting community development and empowering people through education, training and supportive services” PLCCA was established in 1968 by Bishop Dr. Claude Porter as a private State of Illinois, not-for-profit 501 (c) 3 corporation to serve the low-income residents in Cook County’s Proviso and Leyden Townships, the municipality of Norridge and the Chicago metropolitan area. PLCCA continues to promote enhancement, development and implementation of practical approaches of serving low-income residents and the total community. As a community action agency, we recognize the results that can be achieved when every facet of the community voluntarily joins together in a partnership to address common concerns. PLCCA firmly believes the end result of our efforts will mean a family and community largely self-determined and therefore self-sufficient. PLCCA has been at the forefront in providing services that other agencies have traditionally avoided. Since the birth of PLCCA, in 1968, the agency has grown from the operation of one initial grant providing employment and training in the amount of $38,000 to approximately thirty community need-based programs with an operating budget of approximately $6 million and maintains a total property value of approximately $9.1 million. PLCCA is an agency that believes in continuing to evolve as the community needs continue to change.