Adirondack Community Action Programs (ACAP) celebrated its 50th Anniversary of working to combat poverty in Essex County New York with a Poverty Simulation and a Commemorative Dinner at the High Peaks Resort in Lake Placid on April 23rd.
ACAP was created as part of the national “War on Poverty” and incorporated as a Community Action Agency in 1965. Committed to providing services for children, adults, and seniors the agency has worked to improve the lives of families in our community for over 50 years.
At the conference, staff, stakeholders, and board members participated in a Poverty Simulation hosted by the NYS Community Action Association. The simulation gave participants a better understanding of what it is like to live in a typical low income household. Insight gained by participating in the poverty simulation helped attendees to understand why those in poverty make the choices they make, and helps them in assisting families.
At the dinner the organization took the opportunity to recognize its history and those who have been part of the positive impact the agency and its programs have on theircommunity. Randal Douglas, Chair of the Essex County Board of Supervisors, presented the agency with a proclamation from the board recognizing ACAP for its years of service to the community. He then read a letter from Governor Andrew Cuomo recognized ACAP’s accessible, innovative, and comprehensive programs, writing “ACAP has made great strides through an integrated network that promotes academic enrichment, work experience and opportunities, positive youth development, and strong family relationships – initiatives that support a person on the path to growth, self-reliance, and dignity.”
The evening ended with Alan Jones, ACAP CEO, and 
agency Directors recognizing the many staff who have reached milestones in years of service. Mr. Jones thanked staff for their hard work and dedication saying he was proud of what the staff accomplishes every day and is thankful to work with such an amazing group of people.