Important update regarding Federal grant funded programs

January 30, 2025

This week, the Federal Government released a notice regarding a temporary freeze of funding for certain federally funded programs, including Head Start and Senior Corps. The Douglass Board of Directors and the leadership team have met to discuss this development and its potential impact on our organization. Today we were informed that the funding freeze was lifted, but the organization is continuing our conversation.

We understand that this news may cause concern, and we want to assure you that we are committed to providing high-quality early childhood education and vital support services for seniors. These programs are essential to our communities, and we will actively explore all options to minimize any disruption to our services if needed.

We are monitoring this situation closely and will provide updates as they become available. For now, please know that we are open for business, we are continuing to provide quality services, and we are pulling together information of the impact of our programs in Northeast Missouri. If you would like to express your support for these programs, please share your personal story with us and how these services have made a difference for you, your family or community.

We are confident that we can navigate these and any other challenges together to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.

Sincerely,

The Douglass Board of Directors

Douglass Community Services began its existence as Douglass Community Center in 1969, at the former Douglass School. Then owned by the Second Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), the congregation saw a need to bring people of different races, religions, and walks of life together to form an organization that would address problems associated with prejudice and poverty in the community. Many local churches were supportive of Douglass Community Center during its beginnings, and its Articles of Incorporation reflect the early church affiliation. The organization was formed “to perform in a Christian atmosphere services contributing to the relief of the poor, the distressed and the under privileged…”  A private non-profit, today, Douglass Community Services, Inc. is still recognized as a strong, well run, community-minded organization.

Mission Statement: Douglass Community Services is a trusted leader  in building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities

Vision Statement: Douglass Community Services will be an exemplary leader in the community by transforming unmet needs, honoring all people’s dignity, and instilling hope to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.