Circles is a long-term approach to end poverty permanently in our community. Each week, local families working to overcome poverty (Circle Leaders) meet with community volunteers (Allies) over dinner and programming. During these meetings, Circle Leaders work on their goals toward self-reliance. Over time, incomes improve, debt and public assistance decrease and necessary relationships are built.  Our mission is to inspire and equip families and communities to resolve poverty and thrive.  We believe no one should live in poverty and if given the right tools and support - economic stability can be achieved.

How does Circles work?

Circles is a unique partnership of Circle Leaders and 2 to 3 Allies. Circle Leaders are low income individuals (and their families) who have the determination and dedication to break out of the cycle of poverty. By engaging in meaningful relationships with their Allies, Circle Leaders and families can break through their isolation and achieve a better quality of life. Allies are community volunteers who share their experience, time, and energy to help a Circle Leader and their family “figure out” how to get out and stay out of the cycle of poverty. Engaging in meaningful relationships with a family and helping them grow and succeed provides a deep sense of fulfillment and brings real meaning to life!

Circles: an innovative, community-driven way to solve poverty

We believe that responsibility for both poverty and prosperity rests not only in the hands of individuals, but also with societies, institutions, organizations and communities. Our approach is a progressive model grounded in research that shows families must have strong social capital and connections (relationships and resources) with their communities in order to improve their economic situation and overall quality of life in their neighborhoods. 

Volunteer with 6:8 Circles Sauk Prairie Today!

To learn more about Circles & how to get involved:

Email: 68Circles@MakingServicePersonal.org

Call/text (608) 561-8468

• List of Community Resources - This is a living document of current resources available from Addiction and Energy assistance to Housing and Vision Care.  (Please feel free to use and share)

• Sauk County Resources -  The guide is to provide a directory of resources to assist you in serving Sauk County residents.  The Resource Guide also can be found on the Sauk County UW-Madison Extension website. (In English y Espanol)

• A Home Buying Process - This living document shares a step by step process on how to begin setting goals and planning to buy a home. Also contains many resources.

  • Amortization Schedule Calculator

• Smart Money Personal Finance Classes - Free online video classes sponsored by the Bank of Prairie du Sac. Topics include Budgeting, Managing Credit, & Personal Finance. 

• Shard Document Folder

• Video Library

• Google Meeting Link

• Progress Reports

• Stability/Thriving Worksheet

• Resource Team Request Form