Executive Director John Stephenson describes the role of NMCAA in the 10-county area it serves.
 

In 1961 Congress passed the Economic Opportunity Act, giving birth to Community Action in the United States. In 1974 two Community Action Agencies in northern Michigan merged to become what is now known as Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA). There are 30 Community Action Agencies in Michigan and nearly 1000 across the country. Like NMCAA, most are private non-profit companies.

Throughout its history NMCAA has remained dedicated to strengthening communities through helping individuals and families achieve greater economic security. This is accomplished by assisting residents in solving community problems as well as meeting their individual needs through case management counseling, advocacy, group participation, and service provision.

NMCAA has an annual budget of $20 million.  It has 400 employees and almost 2000 volunteers. Its core mission is to serve families in poverty.  Rather than passing out money to the impoverished, the agency works with families through programs like Head Start to produce long-term positive changes.

NMCAA has a 30-member Board made up in equal parts of representatives of public service, the private sector and low-income people.  With administrative costs of only 4% and 40 years of experience, the agency continues to seek out best practice in the delivery of its services.