Community Service: Specific Programs for Specific Needs

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Service organizations have always played a vital role in society. For decades, those in need have always been able to find assistance with basic needs at a local church or shelter. As society has evolved, so has the availability and types of assistance that can be found. There are now various charitable organizations offering a wide range of specialized services to those in need. Owasso Community Resources and Goodwill Industries of Tulsa are two such organizations. Both are registered non-profits and listed among the membership of the United Way. Both offer services that fill the needs of the communities they serve. However, they differ greatly in the type of people they serve, the programs that are offered by each organization, and the types of donations that can be accepted at each facility. Many service organizations today have moved away from the one-size-fits-all approach of service and toward targeted assistance based on the demographic makeup within their service areas. Owasso Community Resources provides services designed to help families facing financial hardship exclusively in the Owasso and Collinsville areas of Oklahoma. Those seeking the services of Owasso Community Resources are struggling financially. Loss of employment, divorce, and unexpected health related expenses are just a few reasons someone might choose to seek out their services. Applicants are required to provide proof of residency and proof of income to be eligible for Owasso Community Resources’ programs. In comparison, Goodwill Industries of Tulsa, incorporated in 1927, provides job related services to those living in Eastern Oklahoma and also to parts of Missouri. The primary focus of their programs are to help ph... ... middle of paper ... ...le to give their time and those with a financial need are able to receive the help they need. While these organizations are not able to meet the needs of everyone they encounter, they are set up in such a way that they can make a big difference in the lives of many. Focusing on specific community needs, streamlined service programs, and specific donation guidelines allow these organizations to make the most out of each dollar donated or item received. Works Cited Boeltzig, Heike, Jaimie C. Timmons, and John Butterworth. "Gender Differences in Employment Outcomes of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities." Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation (2009): 29-38. Academic Search Premier. Web. 20 May 2014. Davis, Wendy. Personal interview. 19 May 2014. "Mission." Goodwill of Tulsa -. 2014. Web. 22 May 2014. Webster, Nancy. Personal interview. 19 May 2014.

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