History
Founded in 1969, the Community Action Center of Northfield was established by a group of community leaders who shared a belief in the power and importance of service. The Community Action Center originally helped area residents in emergency situations, filling gaps in the county’s social service programs.
As the Community Action Center expanded and hired its first full-time staff, other local programs moved under its umbrella. The Clothes Closet, originated by Church Women United, and Operation Santa Claus, originated by Teen Corps, both became official programs of the Community Action Center in the early 1970s. Services for seniors also became part of the Community Action Center’s programming in the mid-1970s, combining efforts by Community Education and Recreation and Trinity Lutheran Church.
For over 40 years, the Community Action Center has helped Northfielders through challenging times through its commitment to programs like Headstart, the Food Shelf, the Clothes Closet, support for youth, and services for seniors. As government funding for social services has declined, the Community Action Center continues to successfully support our Northfield neighbors.
With the help of committed volunteers, individual donations and foundation grants, the Community Action Center serves thousands of area residents each year – over 3,600 in 2009. Hundreds of children benefit from activity scholarships and holiday gifts, and families receive assistance in the form of gas vouchers, housing assistance, and groceries.