Our Story
When Bob and Marcia Brinley retired, they were deeply involved in their church’s food pantry but felt compelled to do more in the fight against poverty. Driven by a desire to create lasting change, they researched effective solutions across the country. Their findings revealed that the most impactful programs focus on employment, particularly job retention and advancement. This led them to partner with Cincinnati Works to bring their successful model to Lake County, Illinois, a region marked by economic disparity despite its high per capita income.
Lake County is home to diverse communities, yet 25% of its residents live below the low-income threshold, struggling to support themselves without assistance. The Brinleys launched The Community Works, Inc. NFP in 2016 with a mission to empower individuals to achieve economic self-sufficiency through employment. By replicating the Cincinnati Works model, TCW aims to transform lives and uplift communities.