Experiment in Self-Reliance (ESR)

In 1964, the United States declared war on an issue that has plagued our country for centuries.  Under Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency,   initiatives came alive to eliminate poverty amongst individuals and families across our nation.  Thus, Community Action Agencies were born with the mission of helping people help themselves.

Experiment in Self-Reliance (ESR) is one of the first Community Action Agencies in the United States, and one of 34 in North Carolina. For over 50 years, ESR has provided services to people in our community with low to moderate income who are seeking self-sufficiency.

Today, our services provide education assistance, budgeting  classes, homeownership assistance,  housing services for the homeless, free tax preparation, and career enhancement classes.  We envision a world where all people have the resources and tools they need to become self-reliant, and we will not stop until the job is done.

OUR PROGRAMS

The Self-Sufficiency Program works with clients to move beyond poverty by providing success      coaching, financial education, assistance with education and childcare, employment coaching, and housing stabilization.

Housing Services provides housing for the homeless and chronically homeless.

Forsyth Free Tax provides free tax preparation at more than 8 sites throughout Forsyth County during tax season.

New Century IDA (Individual Development Account) provides financial education, success coaching, down payment, education, and small business financial assistance to individuals and families who qualify.