Founded in the 1970s on the belief that "programs don't save children, relationships do," Communities In Schools (CIS) has become the nation's most effective and widely respected community-based organization helping kids succeed in school and prepare for life. CIS of Brunswick County is part of a National Network. The CIS National Office is located in Alexandria, Virginia (www.cisnet.org) and the CISNC State Office (www.cisnc.org) is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. CISNC serves over 35 counties in North Carolina. When comparing the number of sites, staff, budget, and population served, CIS of Brunswick County ranks as one of the three largest in the state. CIS takes a comprehensive approach in serving all of Brunswick County with an array of services and networking.
In 1995, a small team representing several Brunswick County schools, community agencies, and members of the business community began meeting to look at the possibilities for improving student success. A review of best practices from across the country enabled the team to conclude that Communities In Schools was the most effective mechanism to mobilize the community for improving the success of low-performing students and establishing "community excellence."
CIS began its first initiative by helping to create partnerships and funding for the Brunswick Learning Center Alternative School. Later, with the financial assistance of Progress Energy, E.I. DuPont, and several community investors, CIS was incorporated as a non-profit and expanded to serve all Brunswick County Schools with an array of services and community resources. Today, over 10,000 children and family members are positively impacted through CIS community partnerships.
The mission of CIS is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. CIS believes every child deserves a one-on-one relationship with a caring adult, a safe place to learn and grow, a marketable skill to use upon graduation, a chance to give back to the community, and a healthy start.
Aligned with the mission statement and five basics, CIS currently offers four core service areas that include, After School Programs, Teen Court, Family Resource Centers, and Adopt A School and Volunteer Partnerships. Providing academic scholarships for students, Principal of the Year recognition, and educating the community about the needs of the schools and children are also vital parts of our work.
Worth magazine has named CIS as one of the top "100 Best Charities in America." Criteria for this recognition include the organization's ability to achieve its mission and to be good stewards of supporters' contributions. CIS is proud of its excellent track record on both counts. As volunteers, you can be sure that your involvement will produce results that are both dynamic and effective. And, as donors, you can enjoy knowing that 88 cents of each dollar invested goes toward CIS programs.
CIS continues to expand services through effectively networking with service providers, enlisting community support, and meeting the needs of children and families. We encourage you to contact us and begin making a difference in the life of a child, today!
Communities In Schools of Brunswick County, Inc.
PO Box 10087
Southport, NC 28461
Tel (910) 457-3494 Fax (910) 457-2293
e-mail: info@cisbrunswick.org
