HISTORY

In the fall of 2000, a survey of various congregations, faith based and other local nonprofit organizations was conducted in the tri-city area of Central Yavapai County to determine the services currently being provided to people in low-income, homeless, and crisis situations. The most important finding that emerged was critical social and human needs were not being met.   In response, the Interfaith Coalition for Compassion and Justice (ICCJ) was born. ICCJ was incorporated in September of 2001 as a 501 (C) (3) nonprofit corporation. In 2005, ICCJ was re-organized under the name Coalition for Compassion and Justice (CCJ) to allow for more inclusive support.

ACTS OF COMPASSION

CCJ participants believe that everyone has the right to a decent standard of living including food, clothing, housing, medical care, and social services. These needs are being addressed through CCJ outreach programs of Open Door, Home Repair and Circles of Support. Open Door provides meals, clothing, showers, toiletries, vouchers toward rent, utilities, transportation, and medical needs, and other basic items and services to homeless and low-income people.  Home Repair grew out of the awareness of the increasing number of low-income homeowners living in substandard conditions because they cannot afford the necessary repairs.  Home Repair, using funds, materials and services donated by individuals, organizations, and businesses, along with a volunteer workforce, performs health-and-safety-related repairs for these homeowners. Circles of Support befriend a motivated family or individual in poverty; meet with the family on a regular basis; seek to develop a relationship based on friendship and trust; respond to areas of concern expressed by the family, utilizing previously identified and commmitted community services (allies); a Circle of Support is there for the famly like any good friend.

ACTS OF JUSTICE

CCJ recognizes that not only must individuals’ basic needs be met; also, answers to why our neighbors struggle to meet those needs in the first place must be sought.  Through engaging local and state officials and the human services sector already involved with development and implementation of programs, CCJ seeks to make its collective voice heard. Its members strive to play the advocate role to alleviate the socioeconomic inequities underlying poverty, hunger, and homelessness