Transforming Lives
+ Strengthening
Communities

Transforming

Lives

Strengthening

Communities

Strengthening
Communities

Step forward was formerly the Council for Economic Opportunities in Greater Cleveland. For decades, we quietly, steadfastly opened our doors to help low-income individuals and families in Cuyahoga County take steps toward brighter futures.

Throughout our 55-year history, we continuously evolved to meet people’s changing needs as the barriers and challenges of poverty changed.

We know it can be hard to make ends meet and difficult to ask for help or know where to start. Step Forward counselors, coaches and teachers work with each individual or family to sort through the chaos and help them restore hope in their future.

From temporary assistance to deal with immediate distress, to early childhood education so children are ready to succeed in their studies and in life, to adult skills training that leads to better jobs and more stable families, we’re building a stronger community

One Person

One Person

One Family

One Family

One Step at a Time

One Step ataTime

Transforming
Lives

Step Forward helps people find hope, believe in their future and take steps to make it a reality. As the State’s designated anti-poverty agency for Cuyahoga County, Step Forward is tasked and trusted to lead the fight on the ground against poverty in our community.

Poverty is complex. The circumstances, situations and needs are unique for each person or family. Step Forward understands this complexity and through strong community partnerships, and a wide range of programs, helps people navigate the vast resources available to help them.

Step Forward helps low-income individuals and families address immediate needs and build long-term skills to transform their lives through:

Early childhood education programs like Early Head Start and Head Start

Adult Skills Training – both personal and professional workshops

Other support, like the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

Get

Involved

Get Involved

Help Step Forward provide the best services to Cuyahoga County residents - Donate Now

You have the potential to change our community for the better. Join us in the fight against poverty in Cuyahoga County. You can donate to Step Forward and spread the word about our programs and services. Support from people in Greater Cleveland – and beyond – allows us to reach more people and help more individuals and families. Together, we can change lives.

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See those who have partnered with and supportStep Forward

Featured News

Featured News

Middleburg Heights NOC Celebrates One Year in the Community

Step Forward Releases New RFP: Snow Removal

Step Forward to Host May Job Fair

We’re Hiring! Step Forward to Host Recruitment Week for Agency Positions

Step Forward HEAP Office issues Scam Alert

Step Forward Releases New RFP: Copiers, Printers and Digital Storage

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