(734) 484-4357 office@friendsindeed.org

Circles Program

Circles brings neighbors together across socioeconomic lines to build something that emergency relief alone can’t provide: lasting economic stability. It’s an 18-month commitment, built on real relationships, that helps people move out of poverty for good.

Circles Leaders and Allies building relationships across socioeconomic lines
Circles Leaders and Allies building relationships across socioeconomic lines at a weekly meeting.

About the Program

Circles is a relationship-centered program that brings together individuals working to move out of poverty (Leaders) and community volunteers (Allies) who walk alongside them. Through financial education, career development, mentorship, and genuine friendship, Circles helps participants achieve long-term economic mobility and break down the barriers that keep families in poverty.

Leaders and Allies meet weekly, work toward concrete personal goals, and build a support network that stays with them beyond the program. Circles is about more than resources—it’s about community.

Join as a Leader

Ready to build a path out of poverty with a team behind you? Circles Leaders set their own goals and receive consistent support from Allies, staff, and the broader Circles community.

Get Support

Become an Ally

Allies are volunteer community members who show up week after week to walk alongside a Leader. It’s a real commitment—and one of the most meaningful ways to give your time.

Volunteer
A Circles Leader working toward their goals with support from their team
Circles Leaders set their own goals and work toward them with consistent support from Allies and staff.

For Leaders

A Circles Leader is someone ready to do the deeper work of moving out of poverty. Joining Circles means making a commitment to weekly meetings, goal-setting, and the long haul—with a team behind you every step of the way.

  • Attend weekly group meetings for up to 18 months
  • Work one-on-one with Allies toward your personal financial goals
  • Build financial skills, career connections, and community support
  • Participate in Big View conversations that address systemic barriers to economic mobility
A Circles Ally working alongside a Leader during a weekly meeting
Circles Allies volunteer their time and social networks to help Leaders build long-term stability.

For Allies

Allies are trained volunteers who commit to showing up—week after week— for a neighbor who is working hard to change their circumstances. You bring your time, your relationships, and your belief in what’s possible.

  • Complete volunteer training (one Saturday and two evening sessions)
  • Commit to attending weekly Circles meetings alongside your Leader
  • Offer practical support, friendship, and your own social network
  • Help address systemic barriers through the Big View Team
Learn More About Being an Ally

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Circles program and how is it different from other support?
Unlike short-term Essential Services, Circles is an ongoing program (about 18 months) focused on long-term change. You are matched with a support team, attend weekly meetings, and work toward personal financial goals with mentorship and community behind you.
Want to learn more about the Circles program?
We would love to tell you more. Express your interest through our contact form or call (734) 484-4357, and a member of our Circles team will reach out with upcoming training dates and next steps.
Circles participants gathered together at a weekly meeting
Every Circles meeting is a gathering of people who are invested in each other’s success.

Get Involved

Invest in lasting change by funding the mentorship, childcare, and meals that make every Circles meeting possible.

Donate

Become an Ally and build a supportive, long-term relationship that helps a neighbor reach their economic goals.

Volunteer

Circles Volunteer Roles

Find the role that fits your time, skills, and interests.

Circles

Children’s Program Volunteer

Weekly attendance for the full cohort (approximately 18 months)

Learn more
Circles

Community Team Volunteer (Ally)

18-month cohort commitment; weekly meetings and regular informal contact

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Circles

Big View Team Volunteer

Weekly attendance for the full cohort (approximately 18 months)

Learn more