Who We Are

The Community Action Organization of Western New York is a non-profit that serves thousands individuals and families annually. We use our combined expertise to lead the charge on mitigating poverty throughout low-income communities within our area by empowering our clients with the resources they need to become self-responsible.

Mission Statement

The formal mission of the CAO of WNY is to promote opportunities for low-income individuals, families, and communities to achieve and sustain self-sufficiency through advocacy, partnerships, access to services and low-to moderate-income housing development.

Our Vision

Hope is the driving force that enables us to persevere through adversity. Here at CAO of WNY, we offer hope by assisting low-income individuals, families, and communities in finding the necessary resources, tools, and support. However, we can't achieve this alone. To continue our fight against multigenerational poverty and uphold CAO of WNY's enduring commitments, we collaborate with community members and organizations to create a safety net that empowers our clients to regain control of their lives, fostering their sense of self-empowerment.

When you provide hope, empowerment, and self-responsibility to those who might otherwise feel lost, you contribute to a better, brighter future for generations within our community. This is our ultimate goal at CAO of WNY. We encourage health centers, educational and cultural institutions, law enforcement, community engagement teams, business owners, and all individuals and groups committed to making a difference to join us in realizing our vision of a society where everyone plays a meaningful role.

Make a Difference and Inspire Hope.

The Community Action Organization of Western New York serves thousands of families every year, and it shows. We are truly making a difference with our programs and services, and it’s all thanks to our generous donors. With your support, we can continue empowering our clients to become self-sufficient while inspiring hope within our community.

CAO of WNY is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, and all gifts are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by the law. No goods or services will be provided in exchange for the contribution.

So thank you, in advance, for your generous donations and continuous support.

Every volunteer has a place at CAO.

Volunteers play an important part in strengthening our capacity to serve individuals, families and communities in need.