EMAA asks for citizens’ feedback

Organization looking for opinions on county’s opportunities, economies, housing market, and more

SARAH HAAS, shaas@dailyjournalonline.com

East Missouri Action Agency (EMAA)– the federal- and state-funded, Park Hills-based clearinghouse for resources to help the poor, sick, elderly, and other vulnerable residents– wants to hear from citizens in the eight counties it serves.

Rob Baker, SELF program manager with EMAA, said community listening sessions will take place in Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Iron, Madison, Perry, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve and Washington counties.

Two listening sessions for St. Francois County will be conducted on Monday, Aug. 7, at the office in Desloge at 903 E. Chestnut St.

United Way Board member Tim Morgan presented a check to East Missouri Action Agency representative Rob Baker in 2021. Baker is publicizing two listening sessions set for Monday to find out what citizens think the county needs to progress.

The first session, from 1-2 p.m., welcomes members of the general public to participate by sharing their perspectives on what the community needs. The second, from 2-3 p.m., is geared to invited community partners who may offer services or resources to help fill needs in the community.

“We’re basically asking, what’s good, what’s bad, and how are we going to make it a better community,” Baker said. “We do the two separate groups, because when we do surveys, the general public, especially those who use services in the area, might have a different view on what they need to improve their situation than the people who are putting those resources and services together.”

More information can be gotten by contacting Chris Massey, EMAA assistant community services program director, at cmassey@eastmoaa.org or 573-431-5191 ext. 1138.

“We value your input about issues related to housing, nutrition, health, education, transportation, employment, and income,” Baker said. “I hope that you can make time to join us for about an hour to look into the needs of our county and help us shape our strategic plan.”

A flyer was recently sent out to other representatives who offer community services to promote the listening session, complete with a QR code for signing up.

EMAA expects participants on Monday will:

• Help others understand the needs of the community.
• Learn what other community members feel are important needs.
• Take advantage of the opportunity to voice concerns.
• Feel heard and valued.

Feedback from the listening sessions will help inform EMAA’s strategic plan, which it creates or updates every five years. The community needs assessments are done every three years.