Community Action Opportunities, Inc.

Our History (1964 to 1980)

The “War on Poverty” was born. In August 1964, the Economic Opportunity Act (EOA) was passed, creating a Federal Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO). The Economic Opportunity Act stated in part: “It is therefore the policy of the United States to eliminate the paradox of poverty in the midst of plenty in this nation...” The EOA included new education, employment and training, and work-experience programs. Congress provided for direct funding of community groups: the Community Action concept.

The first Community Action Agency in North Dakota was Cass County Community Action which opened in 1965. North Dakota is divided into eight regions with seven Community Action offices serving all eight regions

Established under the Economic Opportunity Act, Community Action moved into northwestern North Dakota to fight America’s war on poverty. Citizens and professionals heard about the availability of funds to assist low income individuals and families. The late Oscar Bergstad convened a group of interested residents. An organizational meeting in Velva established an initial Board of Directors consisting of 21 board members [3 people from each county in Region II] In August 1975, Area II Concerned Low-Income People, or CLIP, filed for its charter as a non-profit, tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) corporation recognized by the IRS. Shortly thereafter, the Board hired the first Executive Director.

From 1975 to the early 1980’s, the agency was primarily an advocate for low-income people. Offering emergency services and Weatherization.

Read about 1980 to Today or go back to 1900 to 1964.