Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Gary Kelsey

Abstract

The Virginia Community Action Agency (VCAA) provides several programs to meet the needs of low-income families and individuals. There are 31 community action agencies in Virginia. Each agency is independently governed to meet the needs identified within its respective community. For example, if food insecurity is an issue, low-cost food subsidy programs are provided for local community constituents. Since 1965, the mission of the organization, has been to provide the means necessary to enable those who have fallen on hard times to receive assistance and lead quality lives. The purpose of the agency is to provide this assistance, and the core value is centered on human rights. The problem explored in this study was the lack of funding from individuals for operating expenses. The theoretical framework used to understand and analyze data was the narrative policy framework. Five out of 31 VCAAs were randomly selected for this qualitative study. Interviews were conducted with 10 agency representatives which consisted of one Executive Director and one Board Chair from each of the five organizations used to gather data. Interview results were coded and analyzed for themes and patterns. The study found that the primary challenge was donors' lack of knowledge of how agencies work; more specifically, agencies' inability to communicate important information on how operations funding affected the overall processes and impact of the agency. The study also revealed a lack of ability to monitor activities due to a lack of resources. These findings can lead to improved policy development and implementation, resulting in positive social change from nonprofit sustainability and the continuation of services to the public.

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