Our History

Community Action, Inc. History Statement

The Community Action movement was created as a result of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 (EOA) and the federal Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO). National directors have included Sargent Shriver and Donald Rumsfeld.

Local Community Action Agencies (CAAs) were created to fight the "War on Poverty.”

Community Action, Inc. (formerly known as Jefferson-Clarion County Economic Opportunity Association, Inc.) was established in 1965 as a private, non-profit charitable 501(c)(3) corporation and has been designated by the Boards of Commissioners of Clarion and Jefferson Counties to serve as a multi-purpose administering and service delivery entity for a variety of anti-poverty, social and/or humanistic programs.

Community Action, Inc. has served the Clarion and Jefferson County areas continuously since inception.

Community Action, Inc. has been instrumental in locally creating programs such as: VISTA, the Job Corps, Neighborhood Youth Corps, Legal Services, Head Start, Foster Grandparent Program, Green Thumb, Weatherization Programs, TEFAP, Employment and Training Programs (CETA and JTPA), Older Americans Act, Women, Infants and Children (WIC), and Federal Housing Programs, which, along with many new programs, continue today.

Community Action, Inc. is governed by a local 12 member tripartite Board of Directors.

Board of Directors

  • Representative Joshua K. Bashline

    Clarion

    Representative Josh Bashline is a Pennsylvania state representative serving the 63rd Legislative District, which includes all of Clarion County and parts of Armstrong County. Elected in 2024, he brings public service experience as a former state House district office manager and a 12-year veteran of the Pennsylvania National Guard, where he served overseas and earned multiple awards and commendations. A Clarion Township resident, Josh is focused on supporting local jobs, small businesses, energy independence, and strong communities. He serves on several House committees, including Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness, and is committed to advancing practical solutions that benefit his constituents and all Pennsylvanians.

  • Commissioner Wayne Brosius

    Clarion

    Wayne Brosius is currently in his fourth term as Clarion County Commissioner, first elected in 2011. He graduated from Clarion University, now PennWest Clarion, with a degree in Communications. He has worked as a professional radio personality at WWCH/WKFT/WCCR Radio in Clarion since 1986 and currently hosts “Bigfoot Country Legends Saturday Classics” each Saturday. He enjoys gardening, tennis, church-work and is a collector of music CDs with over 2,000 in his library. He appreciates Community Action because we try to help people when they are down while also promoting self-responsibility. 

  • Granville E. Carter

    Jefferson

    Granville Carter has served on the Community Action, Inc. board since 1995, representing the private sector.  He is a resident of Jefferson County and is an attorney and partner at Carter Bianco, LLP in Brookville, PA. His practice specializes in Family and Social Security law and bankruptcy.

  • Sharon R. Corbett

    Jefferson

    Sharon Corbett is a resident of Jefferson County.  Sharon holds a degree in psychology from the University of Pittsburgh and has worked for the Jefferson County Housing Authority for 23 years.  Sharon joined the Community Action, Inc. Board in 2021 and represents low-income individuals and families.

  • Cindy Depp-Hutchinson

    Jefferson

    Cindy Depp-Hutchinson joined the Board in 2022. Her interests lie in educational and healthcare access for the community. She is a wife, mother to 4 adult children and multiple pets. Her day job is being an administrative assistant for a charge of 5 United Methodist Churches in the Punxsutawney area. She is active with the boards of the Punxsutawney Memorial Library, the Punxsutawney Area School District and her local church council. Outside of her volunteer opportunities, she likes to make cards and scrapbooks, crochet, watch vintage television shows, and spend time with her family. Cindy currently serves as the Board Vice-Chair.

  • Jennifer Fulmer-Vinson

    Clarion

    Jennifer Fulmer-Vinson is the owner of Fulmer House Books & Collectibles in Clarion and the Mayor of Clarion Borough. She is currently on the Clarion Free Library Board and the Board of Directors for Girl Scouts Western Pennsylvania. She just finished 6 years as a member of the board for SAFE in Clarion County. She spent 19 years as a volunteer with Girl Scouts as a troop leader and as a Service Unit Manager. Her interest in Community Action is a natural extension from her experience with SAFE and her desire to help an organization that does so much for our local counties.  She has learned so much about what Community Action does since joining the Board in 2022 and looks forward to learning so much more. Jennifer currently serves as Board Chair.

  • Joseph Glover

    Clarion

    Joseph Glover is the Lands Manager at Three Rivers Forest Management LLC, with 25 years of experience in the consulting and industrial forestry sector.  Joe joined the board in 2020 as a community representative of the local Knights of Columbus Council 7549 in Clarion.  He has served in many leadership positions with the Knights of Columbus, is a deacon at Immaculate Conception Church in Clarion, and has served in various leadership positions with the Association of Consulting Foresters of America and the Society of American Foresters.  Joe raises too many chickens with his wife, Jen, and his daughter, Elizabeth.  He also enjoys woodworking in his spare time.

  • Pamela M. Johnson

    Clarion

    Pamela Johnson is the Executive Director of Jefferson-Clarion Head Start, Inc. She has been with Jefferson-Clarion Head Start for over 37 years and has truly made a career out of helping children receive the education they need to prepare for their futures.  Pamela has served on the Community Action, Inc. Board since 2000, representing low income individuals and families. She currently serves as Board Secretary Treasurer. She also volunteers on the PASSAGES Board of Directors and Clarion County Advisory Board.  Pam is married and has two adult sons and a grandson.  She enjoys reading and spending time with her family.  Pam is passionate about ensuring that families and children receive the services they need to reach their full potential and that the communities in Jefferson and Clarion Counties thrive.

  • Marlene V. Kennedy

    Jefferson

    Marlene Kennedy is a resident of Jefferson County.  She holds a degree in Business Administration from Clarion University.  Marlene has worked at Clarion University and has also served as an Office Manager and Property Manager.  Marlene enjoys serving her community and is currently a volunteer at the Heritage House in Brookville.  She has served on the Community Action, Inc. Board since 2024 representing low-income residents and families.

  • Tricia L. McIlwain

    Clarion

    Trish McIlwain is the Permanent Supportive Housing Manager/Resident Services Coordinator at the Clarion County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, where she works with individuals experiencing chronic homelessness and provides eviction prevention services. With more than 20 years of experience in human services, she has worked in women's shelters, outreach agencies, housing programs, psychiatric services, and mental health drop-in centers. Trish joined the Community Action Board in November 2025. Originally from Wisconsin, she has lived in Pennsylvania since 2019. In her free time, she enjoys playing piano for two local churches and exploring the countryside with her husband. She is the mother of two young adult sons.

  • Commissioner Scott E. North

    Jefferson

    Scott North is a Jefferson County Commissioner, career military veteran, and lifelong resident of the Punxsutawney area, dedicated to serving his community. Appointed to the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners in 2021 and subsequently elected to the position, he brings decades of leadership experience from both the military and private sector. During his 29 years in the U.S. Army and National Guard, he rose from enlisted private to lieutenant colonel, commanded an artillery battalion, and completed two combat deployments. He also holds a degree in public administration and has professional experience in management and human resources. His priorities include infrastructure, economic development, public safety, and supporting veterans.

  • Janine C. Strohm

    Jefferson

    Janine Strohm is a long-time resident of Jefferson County.  Sharon holds a degree in Library and Information Science from Clarion University.  She worked as the Director of the Redbank Public Library and then accepted a position as the Director of the Rebecca M. Arthurs Memorial Library in 2018.  Janine joined the Community Action, Inc. Board in 2021.  She is passionate about serving her community and connecting people with books and high-quality information that enriches their lives.

Primary Contacts

  • Misty S. Fleming

    Chief Executive Office

    Email

  • Meagan J. Wrhen

    Community Impact Director

    Email

  • Donna States

    Chief Financial Officer

    Email

  • Suella M. Himes

    Crossroads Director

    Email

  • Tina D. Kephart

    Weatherization Director

    Email

  • Diana L. McKillop

    Weatherization Field Supervisor

    Email

  • Kimberly J. Hutchins

    MATP Administrator

    Email

  • Crystal E. White

    Adult Education Supervisor

    Email

  • Robin L. Hopkins

    Management Assistant

    Email

Mission Statement

Community Action, Inc. partners with community members to improve low-income situations by assisting families with activities to overcome barriers, improve economic status, and enhance their quality of life.

Vision Statement

Community Action, Inc. will be recognized as a premier organization dedicated to solving social and economic problems of the community.

Document Library

 

Employment Openings

  • Looking for a hands-on career where you can learn valuable skills, make a difference, and grow professionally? Join our Weatherization team as a full-time Weatherization Installer ($18.54/hr.) and help improve the comfort, safety, and energy efficiency of homes throughout our community.

    This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working with their hands, solving problems, and learning new trades. Whether you're building on existing construction experience or looking to start a meaningful career path, you'll gain practical skills, work alongside experienced professionals, and see the direct impact of your work every day.

    Essential Duties & Responsibilities

    As a Weatherization Installer, you will:

    • Install energy-saving measures and perform repairs that improve home efficiency, comfort, and safety.

    • Load and transport tools, equipment, and materials to and from job sites.

    • Safely operate a company vehicle while following all transportation and safety guidelines.

    • Assist with diagnostic testing and basic troubleshooting of home mechanical and electrical systems.

    • Perform general maintenance tasks, including painting, cleaning, weatherproofing, and minor repairs.

    • Maintain accurate records and documentation of completed work.

    • Respond to occasional after-hours, weekend, or holiday emergency situations as needed.

    • Participate in ongoing training opportunities to develop technical skills and advance within the Weatherization Program.

    Qualifications

    We're looking for candidates who:

    • Have a High School Diploma, GED, or HSE.

    • Have an interest in construction, carpentry, building trades, or property maintenance.

    • Possess trade school training or experience in HVAC, carpentry, construction, or a related field (preferred but not required).

    • Hold a valid Pennsylvania driver's license with a good driving record and meet insurability requirements.

    • Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn.

    • Can work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a team.

    • Are comfortable working in a variety of residential settings and changing environmental conditions.

    Why Join Our Team?

    • Gain hands-on experience in the growing field of energy efficiency and home performance.

    • Learn valuable technical skills that can lead to long-term career opportunities.

    • Work on meaningful projects that improve the quality of life for local families.

    • Enjoy a supportive team environment that encourages growth, training, and advancement.

    • Be part of an organization dedicated to strengthening communities and creating lasting impact.

    Build your future while helping others improve theirs.

    Join our Weatherization team and help create safer, healthier, and more energy-efficient homes, one project at a time.

  • We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated full-time Domestic Violence Counselor/Advocate ($19.81/hr.) to provide life-changing support to individuals and families affected by domestic violence. This role is essential in helping survivors navigate crisis situations, develop personalized safety plans, access community resources, and begin their journey toward healing and stability. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to empowerment, social justice, and trauma-informed care, along with excellent communication skills and experience working with vulnerable populations.

    Duties

    • Offer immediate crisis intervention and emotional support to victims of domestic violence, ensuring their safety and well-being.

    • Assist survivors in developing personalized safety plans tailored to their unique circumstances.

    • Manage secured shelter locations.

    • Provide information about child protective services, family law, and available community resources to support survivors’ needs.

    • Advocate on behalf of survivors within the legal system, including court proceedings related to family law and protective orders.

    • Facilitate educational workshops and outreach programs to raise awareness about domestic violence prevention and available support services.

    • Maintain detailed case documentation in compliance with confidentiality standards and organizational policies.

    • Proven ability to handle sensitive situations with empathy, professionalism, and cultural competence.

    • Educational background in social work, psychology, or related fields is desirable but not mandatory; relevant experience is valued equally.

    Join us in making a meaningful difference by empowering survivors of domestic violence through compassionate advocacy and comprehensive support services!

Application Instructions

REMEMBER: Please read instructions carefully and be thorough. 

Everyone who applies for a position with Community Action, Inc. should submit a resume with a cover letter, indicating the posted position for which you are applying or an Application for Employment.

Click here to download the Application for Employment. You may also obtain these documents at our office listed below, or call (814) 938-3302 to request the forms be faxed or mailed.

Email your Cover Letter and Resume or completed Application to hr@jccap.org.

IMPORTANT: Please include the position for which you are applying in the subject line of the email.

You can also mail or fax your documents to:

Community Action, Inc.

ATTN:  Human Resources

105 Grace Way

Punxsutawney, PA 15767-1209

Fax: (814) 938-7596

Full-Time Employment Benefits

Non-exempt work week is typically 37.5 work hours.

  • Individual Hospitalization, Vision, and Dental

  • Short Term Disability Insurance

  • Group Term Life Insurance

  • Simple IRA

  • Health Savings Account

  • Credit Union Membership Option

  • Holidays (typically follows Pennsylvania State Holiday Schedule)

  • Paid Time Off

  • Civil, Military, and Bereavement Leave

  • CAI is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (including religious beliefs, observations, or practices), disability, ancestry, national or ethnic origin (including limited English proficiency), age (40 or older), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, lifestyle, political beliefs, union membership, participation or decision to refrain from participation in protected labor activities, marital status, familial status (only for housing), parental status, military service, veteran status, genetic information, AIDS or HIV status, citizenship, relationship to a person with a disability, possession of a General Equivalency Diploma (GED) instead of a high school diploma, use of a guide or support animal or because the user is a handler or trainer of guide or support animals, stereotypes or assumptions, whether the person is a victim of violent crime (including domestic violence),or other characteristics protected by federal or state law. This commitment applies, but is not limited, to decisions made with respect to recruitment, selection, appointment, placement, promotion, demotion, appraisal / evaluation, compensation, benefits, delegation, training, career development, discipline, transfers, terminations, lay-offs, return from lay-offs, administration of benefits, and all other terms and conditions of employment.

  • Applicants/candidates for positions are selected for interviews based on their qualifications, experience, and suitability for the position. Every effort is made to hire the best qualified individual. Qualified welfare recipients and veterans are encouraged to apply. Submitting an application packet or attending an interview is not a guarantee. Please periodically check this page for position vacancies.