News Results

*Winning Real Results for REAL People!*
Home Become a Member Contact Us Get your taxes prepared free by GRO VITA GRO Action Teams Building Electoral Power Newsletter Links Health Care Events Internship Openings	news Save the date for GRO's Showdown at the Statehouse! Thursday, March 4! 2010-02-08 March Forth on March Fourth! Save the date for GRO's "Showdown at the Statehouse" at the south Capitol steps, 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 4! GRO Shows Up to Showdown in Chicago 2009-11-03 Let's Bust-up! Big Banks! During the wee hours Sunday, October 25—GRO - Grass Roots Organizing folks awoke to board a chartered bus headed to the Showdown in Chicago. From Columbia, Shelby County, Mexico, Palmyra and St Louis area; nearly fifty from all walks of life and ages ranging from 18 – 88, representing each of eight decades, journeyed for 7-10 hours to join hundreds of people from across the country to disrupt big banker’s festivities and operations. Sunday and Monday’s actions were organized by our National People’s Action affiliate network. The successful event featured a savvy “hit” on the American Bankers Association’s (ABA) ball at the Sheraton where twenty GRO folks dressed in their Sunday best joined about 180 others to trickle inside the hotel unnoticed. Hundreds of others marched from our hotel (Hyatt Regency) led with giant puppets of three of the big Wall Street bank monopolies CEO’s, signs and chanting as a diversionary tactic. Monday morning Fenny Dorsey sent everyone off with a strong call to act. Three more direct actions exposed the greedy profit driven institutions and their shady lobbyists. Fourteen busloads converged on Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo and made a return visit to the ABA. The Showdown received over 300 media hits. GRO leaders appeared on local, national and international news sources including CNN, MSNBC, Huffington Post and The Nation. Visit showdowninchicago.org to view photos, video and stories. Denise Dorsey and Jennifer Whittler of GRO were part of the NPA leadership team. Jennifer did the demands on the bull-horn at all the actions and was the leader selected to deliver the letter to Wells Fargo. Stacy Applebee, Wendy Brumbaugh, Aaron Burnett and Brenda Procter were trainers. Kaye Miller and GRO staff assumed roles as marshals, door holders and crowd control. On Tuesday, SEIU turned out 5,000 to “hit” the American Bankers again! The three-days marked the beginning of a national movement and put-forth a strong message for reform including modernization of the Community Reinvestment Act, support for the Consumer Financial Protection Agency and passage of the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act. We must “bust-up big banks”! Four banks issue half of the country’s mortgages and five credit card lenders control 74% of the market. Americans learned, when the corporate elite make bad decisions, they take the whole economy down! Every 7.5 seconds a U.S. family is foreclosed on. GRO supports a diverse, stable, banking system made up of thousands of small-medium size banks and promote community member owned credit unions. Bill Black from Michael Moore's New Film 2009-10-01 Presents Keynote at GRO 9th Anniversary! Bill (William) Black is confirmed as the keynote speaker for the GRO Ninth Anniversary event. He is an associate professor of economics and law at UMKC and author of the book, The Best Way to Rob a Bank is to Own One, which predicted much of what happened to spur the current economic crisis. Here is a link to Bill Black’s web page bio - http://www.law.umkc.edu/faculty/black.htm. Black is interviewed in Michael Moore’s new film, Capitalism: A Love Story, which opens in theaters tomorrow (Friday, October 2). The GRO Grassroots Route to Reform & Recovery Anniversary event is Saturday, October 17, at the Truman Hotel and Conference Center in Jefferson City. It begins at 5:00, with dinner at 6:00. The program starts at 6:30. Joe Maxwell, former Lt. Governor, will emcee the festivities. Everyone in a GRO member household can attend for free (with paid-up annual dues per household of $60). Non-members can come for $30 per ticket (or two for $50). We can hold tickets at the door if you let us know in advance, or if you’d like to become a GRO member, Brandi brandi@gromo.org or (573) 581-9595 will send you the paperwork to do that – it’s only $10 more than two tickets. We will have a bountiful buffet dinner, silent auction (which will include donated work from Missouri artisans), and a raffle for a free bed-and-breakfast weekend at the historic Inn Harmony, built in 1844, in Bethel (compliments of B & B owner and GRO Board member Wendy Brumbaugh). There is a cash bar and rooms available at the Truman Hotel Saturday night for the discount GRO rate of $53. Please reserve by October 5 by calling the hotel directly (573) 635-7171. We have such a great time at the event, and we’d love to share it with you! Sept. 2 Health Care Rally Highlights! 2009-09-04 Health Care is a RIGHT! Not a PRIVILEGE! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing mobilized over 250 people 10:30 am Wednesday, September 2, 2009 at the Missouri State Capitol for a successful Get Back to Work Health Care Rally! Many community and legislative leaders from around Missouri attended and addressed the crowd with rousing chants and clear mandates for health care reform that includes a strong public option. Personal health care stories were shared from many different health perspectives. Clifton Long was raised in Mexico, Missouri. He has worn many hats and has worked many types of jobs over the past thirty plus years. Clifton has had many types of health insurance. And, he experienced plenty of stints where he had health problems and no insurance coverage at all. Mr. Long served his country for almost seven years in the United States Marine Corps. The Marine way is to leave no one behind. And Clifton contends that is the way our health care system should be—coverage for all of us and that leaves nobody out. He thinks his public health insurance is awesome! And believes that health care reform cannot wait—Congress must pass reform measures this year—too many of his proud family need healthcare. Rodney Orr lives in Palmyra, Missouri. A retired UAW worker, he worked for Caterpillar in East Peoria, IL for 30 years. Rodney and Carol have lived in rural, northeast Missouri for just over seven years. In addition to having children and grandchildren directly affected by the current health care crisis, Rodney and wife, Carol, struggle with increasing insurance premiums and the rising cost of prescription drugs. “Even when I had good health care—when I was completely covered and they paid for everything—I still believed health care was a right for everybody. We shouldn’t punish the sick for being sick.” He sees the health care reform fight as commonsensical and directly related to the well being of society. “It makes good economic sense to keep people healthy. If we’re going to have a strong work force, people should be healthy.” Hope Tinker is a family physician operating a private practice in Fayette. Beloved by her patients, staff and community, Dr. Tinker holds true to a core value: health care is a fundamental human right. As such, she is a strong supporter of public healthcare. Family Health, Inc. employs 10 full time and 5 part time employees and provides medical care to residents throughout central Missouri. As a small business owner, Dr. Tinker is aware of the costs of providing health insurance. Insurance premiums costs $400-450 each month per employee; the practice has a catastrophic policy with a high deductible of $2,000, of which the practice covers the first $500. Ironically, a medical practice is unable to provide good health insurance to employees. “Dealing with the fact that one is ill is hard enough without having to face the financial costs associated with medical care. It is tragic that we have to spend so much emotional, financial and human resource energy worrying about healthcare and having such an inefficient system. It could be so much better, and so much less expensive. This is doable. It’s not rocket-science. It sickens me that corporations and wealthy people literally make money off of other people’s suffering.” Judy Baker told us that some people have to get a divorce to keep their health care. That ain't right. She described the case of Betsy Roxler. Betsey and her husband both worked full time but didn't have health care. When Betsy experienced fatigue and pain in her back, she didn't go to the doctor, because she wanted to save the family's money for her children. Waiting cost her her life. She died one week after finally getting the diagnosis of what was wrong with her. That ain't right. Melanie Edwards told us about the way her insurance company refused to pay a single bill after she was diagnosed last December with breast cancer. You can hear people in the crowd saying "That ain't right" as she talks. Columbia, MO Police 2009-08-17 Withold Records of Tasing Incidents! Since May 2009 when national Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) standards were adopted by Columbia Police Chief Ken Burton, The Coalition to Control TASERs has tried to obtain information about tasing cases May - August 2009. The police department response to the group’s Sunshine Law requests has been delay and obstruction. Coalition members worked hard to get adoption of the standards. They hoped taser training; regulation, transparency and oversight would enforce a criterion of “imminent danger” before deployment and stop the weapon’s abuse by officers. The Chief’s decision to adopt all the PERF standards signaled to residents more confidence in taser use. Confidence is being undercut by the lack of openness and accountability to the public. “We know at least 15 deployments occurred since May 2009, said Mary Hussmann, Coalition organizer and GRO leader. The deployments by police against Carl Giles August 1 raised questions for our community--What good does it do to have PERF standards if officers aren’t following them?” Mr. Giles apprehended, forcefully subdued, handcuffed, pepper sprayed and tased twice for public urination by officers filed a formal complaint against the Columbia Police. The Coalition, with GRO leader and local attorney Ed Berg leading the charge are ready to press forward with legal action if necessary to get police to comply with the Missouri Sunshine Law. Tell Congress to Get Back to Work 2009-08-09 Sept. 2nd Health Care Rally! JOIN US! Health Care Rally! Tell Congress to--Get Back to Work! 10:30 a.m. to Noon, Wednesday, September 2 Missouri State Capitol Steps Jefferson City, Missouri Health Care Can’t Wait! Put People before Profits! The Clock is ticking! 8 Americans who go without proper health care die each hour… While CEO H. Edward Hanway of CIGNA Insurance makes $5,000 per hour denying coverage and skyrocketing premiums! That Ain’t Right! Let’s make sure our Missouri delegation knows when they return to Washington, DC after the Labor Day Holiday that they must get back to work and get meaningful health care legislation passed NOW! We want affordable health care we can all count on. Real reform includes choices of public plans so private companies must compete. For a ride or additional information call GRO - Grass Roots Organizing: Toll free (877) 581-9595 Mexico HQ or (573) 443-4476 Columbia Outreach. GRO, Sunflower and CCO Hold Federal Reserve Meeting 2009-08-09 United All Three Groups Get Wins! Communities Creating Opportunity, GRO- Grass Roots Organizing & Sunflower Community Action KC Meeting with Federal Reserve Bank Predatory lending remains a critical issue in Missouri and nationwide. It is reported from 2003-2007 the number of pay day loan stores operating in our State more than doubled to 1,262 active pay day lenders. The cost to Missourians last year alone was 317 million dollars; second only to California. Missouri is the only state with a 75% interest rate on a $500 loan. It is obvious the industry negatively impacts our communities. Our families become trapped in a cycle of debt. GRO - Grass Roots Organizing and Sunflower Community Action, Wichita, Kansas are National People’s Action (NPA) network affiliates. We joined forces with the national group People Improving Communities through Organizing (PICO) to hold a series of nine Federal Reserve meetings across the country. The faith led congregational PICO group based in Kansas City Metro area who partnered with and hosted us all was Communities Creating Opportunity (CCO). Federal Reserve national staff participated along with other local, state and national officials from both Missouri and Kansas. The August 1 event demonstrated a strong display of group collaboration, grassroots realities and people power. We came together around a clear platform to restore the integrity of financial products and end the lending of money at an exorbitant rate of interest; keep families in their homes, and restore our neighborhoods and communities. Brenda Procter, GRO Board member and Family Economic Specialist for MU Extension, played key roles compiling research information and providing her skillful public speaking and facilitation during the bus tour for the Feds and other public officials. She also helped lead the Public Meeting that followed. Clifton Long, GRO leader from Mexico, MO shared his personal story on the bus tour of foreclosed properties and pay day lending stores in Kansas City and poignantly said, “I was getting payday loans, but I didn’t even have a payday.” Fenny Dorsey, GRO Organizer shared her powerful personal testimony with the crowd of over 200 about how the small loan sharks preyed upon her. “The people who worked at the lending business made it so easy for me. They acted like close friends and made me feel very special. They would even pay me cash when I’d bring family members in to set them up with a loan. Just like a person on drugs—I was hooked and in denial,” Fenny stated. A roundtable discussion made up of about forty community leaders followed the public meeting. GRO leader John Abbey summarized the landscape of what our communities encounter and where we’d like to progress. A strong contingency of GRO leaders who traveled to Kansas City from Columbia stayed to observe the dialogue along with KC Board member Linda Williams. Leaders from all three organizations won commitments from the officials who attended to work together to move the platform forward. John Moon, Senior Community Affairs Analyst, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System wrote: “My colleagues and I appreciated the quality of our meeting last week. The tour and discussion with you and the other participants reinforced some common themes we have been noting from the previous meetings, as well as shedding light on some possible new ones. We appreciated the candor and respectful tone that was exhibited, which allowed us to have a very productive interchange with you.” REAL TALK! 2009-05-29 Is the Current Health Care System Fair? GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Presents… Real Talk! Is the Current Health Care System Fair? 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 16, 2009 GRO Headquarters, 304 E. Breckenridge, Mexico, MO The Public is cordially invited to come and learn what can be done to begin to address the health disparities and inequities families face in our State and Country—  A handful of for profit driven insurance companies have monopolized the health industry for almost a decade. They’ve burdened our families and businesses with increased premiums and less health care coverage.  Many segments of our population have no real choice or access to health care; including rural communities, those with barriers to appropriate communications, employed and unemployed, parents, some racial groups, small business, diseased, disabled, and more.  Conservative lawmakers have criminalized and stigmatized social programs and cut thousands of our most vulnerable Missourians who need public health care options. Attend this FREE educational training and get straight talk about the gaps and lapse in the current health care situation. Find out how to take ACTIONS that can make a difference! Space Limited. Carpool from Columbia, MO available. To register for the training, contact GRO HQ (573) 581-9595 or (877) 581-9595 Email robin@grom.org by Friday, June 5. National Health Care Reform Message 2009-05-20 Healthcare Can't Wait! National Health care Reform Message Americans want protection from insurance companies that deny coverage, change policies at a whim, and increase premiums and out of pocket cost when they want. Free market solution is NOT the answer. Eliminating regulations and the market will correct itself is what we heard with the mortgage industry, the oil companies, and the big corporations that are outsourcing our jobs. Look at where the free market has brought us by the health insurance industry—millions without health care coverage who can’t afford it or afraid to change jobs because they can’t lose what they got now and millions who are under-insured making tough choices about their health and keeping a roof over their head. Many people may ask: Is health reform going to be costly? Health care today is costly. We watch our premiums and deductibles soar, see our most vulnerable cut from Medicaid, the quality of our care slip, and our worries about the health of our family mount. Yes reform will cost us. But it is a solid investment in our future. Financing reform will be fair if there is shared responsibility. Small businesses will pay what they can realistically afford. The industry's greed, so prevalent today, will be held in-check. Waste will be decreased. And, we will all have the relieve that comes with knowing we can afford quality health care for our families today, and ten years from now. Health care can’t wait! Americans are working harder to pay higher health care costs to get less coverage. Health care costs have more than doubled in recent years while wages are stagnant. Small businesses are the engine to our economy and need relief to provide affordable, quality health care. The time is now to fix our broken health care system so all Americans have the health care they can count on. We will have the kind of health care system that provides our doctors with the time, medical staffing, access to information, and technological support to do their job the best they can. And, we will have peace of mind that comes with knowing that our treatment options are effective, proven, and affordable. It will be patient-centered care, not the kind of industry-profit driven centered care that results in denials of coverage, mountains of paperwork, and skyrocketing bills. www.healthcareforamericanow.org Turkeys Good for Bowlers--Not MO Budget 2009-03-27 Media Advisory Media Advisory March 25, 2009 Turkeys May Be Good for Bowlers but Not for Missouri Budget While House Speaker Ron Richard may run a bowling alley in his “spare” time, his primary job is to lead the Missouri House and come up with a budget that provides maximum benefit for all Missourians. Demonstrators will be in front of Speaker Richard’s office, Room 308, at the Missouri State Capitol at noon, Wednesday, March 25 with a creative display to prevent the House from “bowling over” critical programs. Representative Allen Icet and the House leadership has cut core State programs and thrown vital services into the “gutter.” They need to “follow through” with their mandate and restore the $300 million they cut from the budget so that we can draw down every Federal dollar possible during this deep recession. By cutting State funds and leaving Federal dollars on the table, legislators are violating their fiduciary responsibility as public servants and punishing those who are least responsible for the economic mess we find ourselves in – ordinary Missourians just trying to get by. “With unemployment on the rise and jobs disappearing at an alarming rate, what they are doing is immoral and unconscionable” says Missouri family economist Brenda Procter. “Federal stimulus funds are intended to stabilize the State budget and help our economy recover by creating and maintaining jobs, ensuring personal income growth and resulting in additional State tax revenues.” They should be ashamed of themselves. While families go without jobs, income and health care, our part-time legislators enjoy taxpayer-funded health insurance and sit in judgment of everyone else. Let’s work on our “game” and ensure that Missouri doesn’t wind up “losing.” Using the economic recovery funds will improve our “handicap” and put us in the same “league” as most states. Three strikes may be a “turkey” for former Professional Bowling Association member Ron Richard, but let’s not let other states “gobble” up our Federal dollars. ### Medicaid Makes ¢ents! 2009-02-27 Report from February Rally! Hundreds of people from across the State chanting and rattling pennies in plastic piggy banks rallied Wednesday, February 25, at the Missouri Capitol rotunda for full restoration of Medicaid. Governor Jay Nixon, Democrat, who campaigned with a pledge to restore Medicaid, addressed the crowd stating, “We must convince a bipartisan group of legislators that it will be difficult to move Missouri forward unless we have a healthy Missouri.” Nixon’s first budget does not go far enough. He’s seeking to restore coverage only to some of the adults cut four years ago and to expand coverage for children. GRO - Grass Roots Organizing traveled via bus and joined our disability groups’ allies and others from the Health Care for America NOW coalition to participate in the actions. Robin Acree, GRO Director, spoke during the rally and exclaimed, “It is going to take cooperation and us holding our elected accountable.” During the Blunt administration over 100,000 lost healthcare access. “Restore the public health insurance now. Medicaid makes sense for the uninsured and ¢ents for Missouri’s failing economy.” While the crowd expressed strong support for total restoration, many Republican lawmakers were responding with a resounding, “No.” Their budget writers said it would be wrong to expand a program in a midyear spending bill. Missouri is one of 46 states with a staggering budget deficit. And it’s getting worse, not better. As more and more people lose their jobs, the demand for public health care services goes up. Like GRO, many at the rally rejected assertions the state cannot afford to expand public supported health care. They pushed not only for Nixon's children's health plan, but for a full restoration of the Medicaid cuts. The recently passed federal stimulus bill includes an estimated $1.2 billion of enhanced Medicaid funding for Missouri over the next two years. "With the federal stimulus money coming in and with the economy the way it is, there is no reason we shouldn't do this," said Courtney Zimmerman, GRO Board Chair, from the Viburnum-based Disabled Citizens Alliance for Independence. GRO also conducted a Democracy—Use It! Or We’ll Lose It! Mini-leadership academy training at the capitol before the Medicaid Rally. There were 72 participants who delivered cards to their elected officials with a penny adhered and the message “Medicaid matters to me and I vote. Medicaid makes sense and cents for Missouri.” Medicaid Makes Cents! 2009-02-24 Rally to Restore Medicaid Medicaid Makes Cents! Rally to Restore Missouri Medicaid Noon, Wednesday, February 25, 2009, Capitol Rotunda, Jefferson, City, Missouri—Missourians traveling from across the state will arrive and gather at the Capitol City asking for full restoration of the Medicaid cuts enacted by former Governor Blunt. Governor Jeremiah (Jay) Nixon, Attorney General Chris Koster and key MO lawmakers will be on hand to address the crowd. The “Medicaid Makes ¢ents” rally will raise awareness of the negative impact the cuts have had on fellow Missourians and the necessity of bringing federal dollars back to Missouri so we can begin restoring healthcare for folks to 2005 Medicaid levels now. Missourians who experience disability and our elderly are paying obscene out of pocket health expenses and are going without meeting basic needs. And thousands more Missouri families are going without access to affordable healthcare. The 2010 Missouri budget faces alarming deficit problems. Pulling down federal dollars from the Stimulus, Medicaid and the State Child Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) are sorely needed and makes the ¢ents for us to restore Missourians eligibility and access to healthcare and can help stimulate our struggling local economies. Some participants will bring piggy banks to shake and others will raise signs during the rally. Many of the attendees will make legislative visits immediately following. Jobs and Economic Recovery NOW 2009-01-03 Coalition Rallies in St Louis January 6 With skyrocketing unemployment and the worst economic conditions since the Great Depression, now is the time to act. GRO - Grass Roots Organizing will join Missouri Progressive Vote, St. Louis ACORN, Jobs with Justice, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, and others at a rally to fight for— Jobs and Economic Recovery Now! Missouri Department of Economic Development, St. Louis Central 4811 Delmar Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 11:30am, Tuesday, January 6th A people’s economic stimulus proposal must include-  Living wage jobs  Healthcare reform  Income supports Employee protections For more information, please call the GRO Headquarters: 573) 581-9595 or (877) 581-9595 or email: robin@gromo.org Ballots Cast, Promises Made 2008-12-16 GRO The VOTE Engages First-Timers Ballots Cast, Promises Made GRO The VOTE Engages First-Timers Tuesday evening, November 4, 2008 GRO community voting volunteers huddled around a big screen television at the headquarters during a watch party. They were socializing, eating munchies and watching election returns together. Our own Antonio Williams acted in the role of the late MSNBC chief news correspondent Tim Russert. The room was filled with both cheers and jeers throughout the evening! The group had worked all Election Day calling on voters to turn out and cast their ballots. “It was a historical time on many fronts,” said Robin Acree, GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Executive Director. “Many people who you thought would have never voted got out early and went to their polling place, at some points in the day we had more canvassers than cars to get them out to the doors, and of course, the youngest and first African American President was overwhelmingly elected.” GRO did our best to keep healthcare demands at the forefront during the election cycle and in the minds of Congressional District 9 new and infrequent voters. Volunteers gathered 2,138 Fix Our Healthcare pledge cards from voters willing to take action when the new Congress convenes. From Mid -June 2008 until October 8 (Missouri voter registration deadline) volunteers outreached and knocked on doors to make healthcare voter contacts with nearly 10,000 people across District 9—1,000 per week! We sent mailers to 15,362 voters in CD 9 with a strong healthcare message, and voter-ed and voter protection information. And, we hung 6,698 door hangers on their doors in Mexico, Columbia, Hannibal and Fulton, Missouri during the final days. Again, our volunteers rocked! They were recognized for their time and efforts with certificates and long sleeve specialty designed GRO tee-shirts! And, now they are poised and ready to hold those elected accountable at the state and national level to make meaningful healthcare reforms and healthcare coverage for all a priority! The Fix Our Healthcare action team is meeting December 17, 2008 in Columbia to plan and strategize—everyone is encouraged to attend and to be part of the reformers lineup! GRO Your Refund 2008-12-02 2008 Taxes Done for Free Get Your 2008 Taxes Done for Free GRO Your Refund Are you tired of paying high fees just to get a simple tax return prepared and filed? If so, then the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program may be for you. Starting January 26, United Credit Union will join with GRO – Grass Roots Organizing and their partners to operate a VITA site in Mexico. This is the second year the community service is offered. VITA is an IRS-sponsored program that trains and certifies community volunteers to prepare and electronically file basic tax returns for families earning up to $40,000. GRO’s VITA site is affiliated with University of Missouri Extension’s Missouri Taxpayer Education Initiative (MoTax). Those who qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit and other family tax credits can save $200 or more on preparation and filing fees. United Credit Union will open $1 minimum share draft accounts for VITA filers. Refunds can be deposit directly into checking and savings accounts, which speeds up refunds to 7 to 10 days. This makes high-cost refund anticipation loans unnecessary. The Mexico VITA site will operate in the GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Headquarters at 304 E. Breckenridge three times a week from mid-January until April 11. Days and hours of operation: Mondays & Tuesdays, 4:00 p.m., to 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Taxpayers will be assisted on a first come, first serve basis – no appointments. Want your taxes prepared for FREE? Be sure to bring: ü Photo Identification ü Social Security cards for you, your spouse, and each of your dependent children ü Form W-2 for every job you or your spouse worked in 2007 ü A voided personal check or deposit slip, if you want your refund directly deposited ü Your 2007 tax return (optional) ü In 2008, did you… § Receive unemployment compensation? Bring your Form 1099G § Pay for child care? Bring the total you paid for child care expenses and the name, address, and Tax ID/Social Security Number of the child care provider § Pay student loan interest? Bring the total of the student loan interest you paid § Pay for tuition? Bring Form 1098 for you, your spouse, and/or dependent children After you get your tax return filed, you will get a MoTax packet with money management and record keeping ideas and have a chance to talk confidentially with a financial expert trained by University of Missouri Extension to request information about your own money issues. NOTE: Volunteer tax preparers are not trained to do small business or itemized returns. Call GRO at 573-581-9595 or United Credit Union at 573-581-8651 for more information. Missouri Voters! 2008-10-14 Important Voting Info Don’t let anyone take your vote from you! Tuesday, November 4, is an important election. You will help determine who the next President, US Congressperson, and Missouri Governor will be; and who makes up the Missouri General Assembly. You will help pick local public officials; and help decide whether the Missouri Constitution should be amended or not and if any laws should change. Before You Vote— If you have questions you can contact the Missouri Secretary of State at 1-800-NOW-VOTE or elections@sos.mo.gov Or call your local County Clerk to find out where to vote, if you are registered, etc. If you have moved within your county you may change your voting address up until and the day of the Election, Tuesday, November 4. Please go directly to the County Clerk’s office, the sooner the better. When You Go Vote— NO PHOTO ID IS REQUIRED TO VOTE! BRING PROOF OF RESIDENCY such as a county voter ID card, driver’s license, Missouri State ID card, utility bill or pay stub that shows your current voting address. You may ask for voting assistance, an audio ballot to make selections, or enlarged text on-screen voting machine. You can also bring one person of your choice into the polling booth. Or you can ask for election judges from two parties to help you. Ways You Can Vote— Voters with limited mobility can vote “curbside” or outside the polling place—they must have someone go in and ask poll workers to bring a ballot out to them. If a polling place is not accessible the voter may ask for a different polling location assignment that is accessible. Voters with a permanent physical disability may ask to be on a designated list so that their local election authority can automatically mail an absentee ballot application to them prior to each election. Voters who will be absent on Election Day from the county may also request an absentee ballot be mailed to them. Their signature needs to be notarized by a Missouri notary. Absentee voting is occurring now! Go to your local county clerk and VOTE TODAY, if you can prove you will be out of town, hospitalized or home-bound on Election Day, Tuesday, November 4. 2008 Field Campaign Interns 2008-08-21 Taking Applications NOW! GRO – Grass Roots Organizing 2008 Field Campaign Intern Description Field Campaign Intern(s) assist Organizers with consumer driven organizing efforts and actively employ and conduct community-based field work related to the GRO community voting and healthcare organizing campaigns. The primary geographic focus of the field work: Central, Northern and Eastern communities of Missouri (Congressional District 9). Intern Qualifications: 1. Capable of working and interacting directly with the public. Competent to perform well in one on one, small and large group settings to help advance community based projects, issue campaigns and progressive policies. 2. Able to learn GRO team, leadership development approach and grassroots campaign implementation style and represent a “can do spirit” for others to emulate. 3. Willing to help organize civic participation activities, recruit volunteers and demonstrate to others the healthcare campaign and community voting. 4. Desire to learn and try new things, possess enthusiasm, be empowered by the work and empathize with others. 5. Access to a computer and the internet. 6. Demonstrated ability to relate positively to diverse communities, prepared to impart courage and to inspire others to take action. 7. Have valid driver’s license, liability auto insurance, and use of dependable personal transportation. 8. Eager and ready to work flexible schedule (evenings and weekends) and to drive and transport others when assigned. Job Duties Include: 1. Assisting GRO staff and leaders with event planning, volunteer recruitment, membership preparation, turnout, training, media work and logistics for activities. 2. Making campaign related phone calls, door to door contacts, determining and implementing field work for civic participation and healthcare campaigns. 3. Presenting information, educating community members and recruiting others to join in healthcare activities, community voting and grassroots efforts. 4. Canvassing and door knocking in communities of low income to reach desired voter contact outcomes of the organization and projects. 5. Participating in training, work planning, campaign development and evaluation. 6. Actively engaging in staff/campaign team, leadership and coalition meetings. 7. Accomplishing outcomes and goals set forth in work plans that will benefit projects or campaigns, actions and development activities. 8. Preparing for and participating in GRO training/leadership development activities. 9. Providing rides and logistics support for activities and field canvasses. 10. Operating a copier, facsimile, computer, phone and digital camera. 11. Keeping records, preparing written and oral reports and communicating progress towards goals to supervisor and others as assigned. GRO will provide interns, practicum students and student volunteers with materials needed to complete internship. A small stipend based on the number of academic intern hours successfully completed and intensiveness of the overall learning experience is offered. Mileage reimbursed for approved travel and use of personal transportation. STOP PAY DAY LOAN & PREDATORY LENDING 2008-07-27 Statewide Coalition Formation Meeting STOP PAY DAY LOAN & PREDATORY LENDING COMPANIES’ BIG PROFITS & BAD PRACTICES! Attend- When Creditors are Predators CONSUMER PROTECTIONS COALITION FORMATION MEETING 6:30 - 8:30 P.M., Thursday, August 14, 2008 GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Headquarters 304 E. Breckenridge Street, Mexico, Missouri Let’s work collectively to— o Reform the payday lending and other predatory businesses’ shady practices and policies! o Find solutions, educate and protect the unsuspecting and vulnerable customers who are preyed upon! o Pull our expertise and resources! Bring a brown bag supper and join us! Drinks provided. For additional information: GRO Headquarters (573) 581-9595 Email brenda@gromo.org GRO THE VOTE! 2008-07-26 Meet & Greet Congressional 9 Candidates GRO & Community Members Please Join Us! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Membership Meeting Wednesday, July 30,2008 6:30 – 8:30 pm, GRO Outreach Office (Labor Temple) 611 N. Garth Avenue—Columbia Meet and Greet Candidates Running for Congress in District 9! Come Learn How YOU Can- GRO The Vote! Fight for Health Care for America Now! Sample August 5th Democrat and Republican Primary Ballots available for Audrain and Boone County voters to review. Refreshments and networking opportunities provided! For a Ride or More Information Please Call: GRO Headquarters: (573) 581-9595 or toll free (877) 581-9595 Outreach Office: (573) 443 -4GRO (4476) Job Opening! 2008-05-30 GRO Seeks Lead Organizer Job Title: GRO LEAD ORGANIZER Principal Job Responsibilities: 1. Coordinates and manages the healthcare, community voting organizing and other grassroots driven projects under the supervision of Executive Director. 2. Collaborates in team settings and creates work plans for organizing staff. 3. Supports, monitors and assesses organizing staff, leadership activities and reports campaign progress and outcomes in a timely manner. 4. Participates and facilitates communication within the organization; as well as acts as liaison between strategic alliances, key partners and valuable coalition members. 5. Researches and assists in the preparation and development of community education, earned media and organizing campaign training materials/tools. 6. Identifies, recruits and enlists leaders/community members with expertise for grassroots work on local, state and national campaigns and coalition efforts. 7. Plans, facilitates, turns out and/or attends community meetings and represents GRO as needed at state and national conferences, meetings and training sessions. 8. Develops volunteers, leaders; provides support, assistance, trains and preps GRO members in group and in one-on-one setting to take on leadership roles. 9. Implements voter registration, education and mobilization efforts in targeted precincts, audiences or sites. 10. Provides outreach/education directly within communities to explain civic and community-based issues, GRO mission, and benefits of people power. 11. Carries out related duties and other assigned responsibilities that often require some evenings and/or weekend work; offers assistance with interns, etc. 12. Conducts door knocking, phone banking, community forums, organization/staffing meetings and media actions and manages others to do the same. 13. Uses Excel, Microsoft Word, email, and internet proficiently in daily work and reporting requirements; shows ability to learn new computer skills as necessary. Qualifications: 1. Proven track record (2+ yrs) of effective community or campaign organizing among people with low incomes, limited resources/opportunities and/or restricted access. 2. Strong oral, written communication skills and basic computer competence. 3. Knowledge and experience of Medicaid or healthcare reform policies, electoral organizing and/or issue-based campaigns and successful collaborations. 4. Goal oriented, self-starter, demonstrated leadership (i.e. inspired others, imparted courage, initiated others to act, etc.) on/for a community project or change effort. 5. Demonstrated ability to relate positively to diverse members of the community and value all stake holder contributions. 6. Committed to social justice, exhibited empathy and sensitivity to minority groups, multi-cultural issues and personal individual experiences. 7. Bachelor degree is desirable; appropriate experience may be used as substitute. 8. Ability to speak more than one language is a plus. 9. Valid driver’s license, auto liability insurance, and use of dependable vehicle. 10. Willing and able to work flexible schedule (some evenings and weekends) and to drive and transport others within the State. Salary range: $38,000 - $42,000; Benefits: GRO paid group health and life insurance, employee/employer matching retirement plan, two weeks paid vacation after one year of employment, IRS rate mileage reimbursement for approved out-of-town travel. Open House Planned 2008-05-21 Tour New Facility in Mexico! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing a central Missouri based statewide social justice group invites the public to come see their newly renovated facilities at 304 E. Breckenridge Street, Mexico, Missouri. Due to the generosity of Carl and Hiroko Roberts, GRO is operating out of its 2800 sq. ft. office space in the heart of Mexico’s economically distressed community. “Residents drove past the abandoned funeral home for 30 years, never expecting anyone to revitalize the place!” said Robin Acree, GRO Executive Director. Robin’s Uncle Carl and wife Hiroko gutted the space, reinforced the floor joists and re-designed the interior to create offices, kitchen, board room and more. “They certainly brought the old funeral home back to life!” said Acree, “GRO is so proud of the new facilities.” The public is invited to tour the building and learn what the non-profit group does during an Open House, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm, Wednesday, June 4, 2008. From 6:00 – 8:00 pm Jean Ann Fox, Consumer Federation of America, will present “Payday Lending in Missouri” to help acknowledge the opening and to give folks the opportunity to learn how Missourians become trapped by payday loans and what we can do together to find solutions. GRO members, staff and community leaders will be on hand to give tours throughout the day. GRO will provide organizational materials, refreshments and opportunity to win door prizes. Rural and Urban Voters Unite in the HealthCare Fight 2008-05-17 Fix Our Healthcare! Launching our national healthcare campaign, Fix Our Healthcare, GRO, disability, faith and community-based allies identified Missouri's rural and urban voters by gathering signatures in a ballot initiative petition drive uplifting Medicaid restoration as a major component to quality and accessible healthcare. Although the volunteer driven ballot measure wasn’t attainable amongst the numerous competitive petitioning efforts out there, inclement weather and other factors beyond their control, the group’s intended outcome was to be poised and ready to take healthcare reforms forward! “Missourians are demanding healthcare reform," says Robin Acree, the Fix Our Healthcare Statewide Director. "The mission of our diverse grassroots coalition is to lead the way for remedies to our healthcare crisis in our communities, state and in our country!” The Fix Our Healthcare grassroots effort is driven by a diverse mixture of people including those Missourians who lost healthcare, the people who can't access private or employer-based healthcare, the under-insured and their state and national allies. Unfortunately, the current economic recession means healthcare access is becoming even direr and will affect even more people! Voters are standing up for their communities and neighbors like Karen Nail who has lost critical healthcare. Karen, from Moberly, was one of hundreds who volunteered, risked their own health and sacrificed valuable time away from their families, school and work to educate voters about the current healthcare situation in MO and the emerging national healthcare movement. "Community based efforts like this one are key to winning healthcare nationally", says Gabe Gonzalez, National Director for the Campaign for Community Values. “We are building partnerships and networks across the country to establish a value based agenda around critical issues like healthcare, immigrant and worker’s rights.” The direct voter contact work resulted in reaching well over 120,000 Missourians and keeps those who lost Medicaid healthcare in the hearts and minds of voters, especially in rural communities who have been adversely affected by the cuts. During the campaign, a tragedy occurred in Ironton County, a healthcare advocate and petition circulator was killed in a car accident in route to work. Sherry Patterson was a dedicated rural social worker and a mother of four. The Fix Our Healthcare coalition will continue recognizing her contributions by advancing meaningful healthcare reform as a state and national priority. When Creditors are Predators! 2008-04-17 Jean Ann Fox to Speak on Payday Lending in Missouri Missouri has four times more payday loan stores than McDonald's restaurants, and Missouri's average payday loan carries a 422% annual interest rate! In 2006, Missouri consumers took out 2.87 million payday loans. On June 4, 2008, Jean Ann Fox, Director of Consumer Protection for Consumer Federation of America, will speak and facilitate a discussion, Payday Lending in Missouri, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. as part of a week-long grand opening celebration of the new GRO - Grass Roots Organizing headquarters at 304 E. Breckenridge in Mexico. GRO is a 501(c)3 organization that creates a grassroots voice for economic justice and human rights for all Missourians. Ms. Fox, a noted expert on payday lending, leads a coalition of advocates from around the country who are working to curb predatory practices in the $28 billion industry. She is a dynamic and energizing speaker who is frequently quoted in national media. Advocates, public officials, educators and GRO friends and allies from around the state are invited to attend this important presentation. Attend and learn more about how payday lending affects Missouri consumers and what we can do about it. Seating is limited, so call 573-581-9595 now to reserve a spot. Brenda Procter Consumer Programs & Resource Development Specialist GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Outreach Office 573-443-4476 brenda@gromo.org Petition Circulators Needed! 2008-04-17 Missouri Healthcare Restoration Act We need your help with the grassroots campaign to place the Missouri Healthcare Restoration Act on the November ballot to vote to bring back healthcare for those who lost Medicaid and expand healthcare for thousands more of us! We have only days left to get the required signatures! Deadline for submission to the MO Secretary of State is May 4, 2008. The most challenging areas of Missouri to gather signatures right now are St Louis, St Charles and Kansas City! And we must get more folks to volunteer and get out there with petitions immediately! Please contact John Bowman or Abby Scott TODAY in St Louis John Bowman (314) 322-4441 Jb200070th@aol.com Abby Scott (573) 289-7764 abby@gromo.org STL Fix Our Healthcare Campaign HQ (courtesy of SEIU Local 1) (314) 647- 9950 ext. 102 Or Scott Cervas in Kansas City to volunteer to collect signatures! Rev. Scott Cervas (816) 682-4202 scottpcusa@hotmail.com To volunteer in any other parts of Missouri please call: (573) 581-9593 Or email Robin Acree: robin@gromo.org Fix Our Healthcare! 2008-04-17 Initiative Petition Campaign to Restore Medicaid & More! Dear Healthcare Advocate— YOU Can Help Fix Our Healthcare! Our healthcare system is broken—big business, special interests and lawmakers profit while the rest of us struggle. The people must reclaim our power. With your support we’ll lead a strong grassroots effort that will restore people cut from MO Medicaid and expand healthcare to even more Missourians! Let’s Test Democracy! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing and our partner groups are working towards real health security and formed the Fix Our Healthcare committee to enable us to circulate an initiative petition, “The Missouri Healthcare Restoration Act” http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2008petitions/08init_pet.asp#2008018 Volunteer circulators will collect over 120,000 voters’ signatures from across the state by May 4, 2008. A valid number place healthcare reforms on the November 4th statewide ballot for the people to decide. The high cost of fuel for most of our volunteers’ vehicles presents real obstacles! We need gas money or gas cards ($25, $50 or $100 amounts) for people to get to these areas where the voter signatures are as well as campaign supplies, meals and materials! Time is running out! Make your Fix Our Healthcare campaign contribution, and send it today! Fix Our Healthcare c/o GRO - Grass Roots Organizing 304 E. Breckenridge Street Mexico, Missouri 65265 Land: (573) 581-9593 GRO Hosts Community Dialogue in Moberly 2007-10-22 How to Band Together and Fight for Change! GRO – Grass Roots Organizing, Moberly and Surrounding Community Members! If you’re concerned about healthcare, wages, housing and other critical issues— please join us! How to Band Together and Fight for Change! 6:30 – 8:30 PM, Tuesday, October 30, 2007 James Youth Center, Rothwell Park Moberly, Missouri From Highway 63—Take the Rollins St. EE Exit (head west), Turn right onto N Williams St., Left on Franklin to N. Holman Road Hear from Organizers, Participate and Learn: The basics of community organizing! What is GRO? And what GRO folks are doing for healthcare and more! The actions that you can take that will make a difference in your community and beyond! For a ride or additional information please call the GRO Headquarters (573) 581-9595, Outreach Office (573) 443-4476 or Email: jordan@gromo.org Job Announcement 2007-09-13 Mid Missouri Organizer GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Announces Opening for Mid-Missouri Community Organizer GRO - Grass Roots Organizing is a social justice nonprofit organization based in central Missouri (Mexico, Columbia offices) that organizes people and builds communities of low income and of color to give voice and win real results on issues and concerns that affect Missourians. The candidate shares GRO organizational mission and vision, has strong commitment to social and economic justice, community voting and to people taking action together solving problems. A dependable team player, group facilitator of public meetings/member work groups and self starter who is accountable for outcomes are qualities needed with the ability to canvass/door knock, travel in the area, work flexible hours (some evenings and weekends), and use Microsoft Word, Excel Spreadsheets, Web and Email. Position requires a college degree, strong communications skill, openness to diverse ideas and populations, interests and/or experiences with issues such as healthcare coverage and access, voting/campaign/electoral work, consumer utilities, fair treatment for housing residents, etc. The Organizer can inspire, impart courage, hope, recruit and encourage community involvement and assist leadership development opportunity. Mid-Missouri Organizer is part-time averaging (25-28 hrs. weekly) with possibility of becoming full-time with complete benefit package. Salary is commensurate with experience and competitive. Personal reliable transportation, auto liability insurance and willingness to transport others required. Approved mileage and meals reimbursed. Training provided. Interested candidates please send a (2) page resume with references to: Robin Acree, GRO - Grass Roots Organizing, 304 South Calhoun Street, Mexico, Missouri 65265 or email resume to robin@gromo.org Deadline for application is 5:00 pm, Friday, October 5, 2007. A full job description is available upon request. The POWER of MANY 2007-09-13 Leadership Monthly Meeting THE POWER OF MANY--GRO THE VOTE!!!! Lifting Up Real Community Values GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Leadership Meeting 6:30 – 8:30 pm, Thursday, September 27 GRO Outreach Office 611 N. Garth Avenue—Columbia Special Guest Speaker: Marvin Randolph, Organizing Director Center for Community Change Washington, DC Bring Friends & Family & Join US for: “BUILDING THE PEOPLES CAMPAIGN ‘ROCTOBER’ 2007 & BEYOND”--- Collective Action & People Power Making a Difference Advocating for Human Worth & Avoiding the Rhetoric Reforming Healthcare & Building Voting Blocks Engaging Decision-Makers & Reclaiming Democracy! For a Ride or More Information Please Call: GRO Headquarters: (573) 581-9595 Outreach Office: (573) 443 -4GRO (4476) Volunteer Appreciation Day at the Park 2007-05-21 Recognizing Champions for Change GRO – Grass Roots Organizing Members Annual Volunteer Appreciation Day at the Park! Come Celebrate YOU and Others Who are Champions for Change! 11:00-3:30pm, Saturday, June 23, 2007 Cosmo Park –Antimi Shelter (by Skate Park) Off of Business Loop 70 West Columbia, Missouri Entertainment, Crafts, Jewelry Making, Face Painting, Games, Prizes, BINGO & More! 12:00-1:00pm Lunch Served 2:00-3:00pm Volunteer Recognition GRO provides drinks, eating supplies & main course. Please prepare & bring your favorite dish/recipe! Invite the Whole Family for Fun, Food & Festivities! Tell us if you and members of your household or (1) Guest will attend! Directions/ More Info: (573) 443 – 4476 (Columbia) or (573) 581- 9595 (Mexico) May 24 Leadership Meeting 2007-05-21 Healthcare, Immigrant & Workers Rights Leadership Monthly Meeting Presents… The Good? The Bad? And, the Ugly from the MO Capitol this Session –Ron Berry, GRO Leader and Special Guest: Senator Wes Shoemyer ALSO-- Campaigning has begun! First debates happened! Next are negative TV ads!! Important Issues to Advance: Healthcare, Immigration & Worker’s Rights! - Daniel Espinosa and Robin Acree 6:30 – 8:30 PM, Thursday, May 24, 2007 GRO Outreach Office 611 N. Garth Ave., Columbia, MO The public is welcome! New Members & Recruiters will be recognized! For directions, ride or further information contact GRO - Grass Roots Organizing: (573) 443 – 4476 (Columbia) or (573) 581- 9595 (Mexico) Working towards “Everybody In, Nobody Out” Health Security! Springing Actions into Full Bloom! 2007-03-19 Leadership Monthly Meeting 6:30 – 8:30 PM, Thursday, March 22, 2007 Boone County Government Center 801 E. Walnut, Columbia, MO Springing Actions into Full Bloom! Please Come and Learn how--- The People Who Get Things Done are: * Finding “Bright Eyes” * Lifting Voices * Mobilizing Voters * Raising Funds * Getting Involved! Refreshments served. For a ride or additional information please contact GRO - Grass Roots Organizing: 573.443.4476 Columbia Outreach Office 573.581.9595 Mexico Headquarters info@gromo.org Healthnet is NOT a NET 2007-03-19 Missouri SB 577 Action Alert Healthnet is not a net! It is a filter to keep us out! It’s based on the unrealistic premise that people won’t get sick! Governor Blunt’s Healthnet is now Senate Bill 577. Healthnet uses private MANAGED CARE to create bureaucratic ways to keep healthcare access and real coverage unattainable and impossible for most. The bill does not undo any damage done from the 2005 cuts. It actually makes things worse—something many thought not possible! If passed SB 577 (Healthnet) would mean: # Seniors and disabled citizens are forced into burdensome, confusing systems they must learn to navigate and get little medical relief or health security for their effort! # Assigning people with severe disabilities, including mental illness into managed care plans with the hopes to opt out on them later! # Implementing managed care for seniors and disabled citizens without any consumer safeguards! # Profit for big private health insurance companies (like they need help)! # No insurance coverage or medical services for people living in poverty or those 120,000 lawmakers cut! # Healthcare coverage becomes a game that patients would earn health credits to obtain! # Takes the doctor out of the equation and makes the government the medical middle man and allows them to decide what “healthy” behaviors and “responsible life styles” to impose on the individual or not! # Punishes a person for going to the ER if their emergency is deemed unnecessary by the State! # Nothing towards advancing the comprehensive, affordable and quality healthcare coverage that Missourians demand! Missourians Want REAL HEALTH SECURITY! Don’t Believe the Healthnet Scam! Call YOUR STATE SENATOR and GOVERNOR BLUNT—TODAY! Tell them that you want: Affordable, quality comprehensive health insurance! The goal is to put more people in—not to find ways to leave most Missourians OUT! Say that you oppose Healthnet and Senate Bill 577. We must be working towards “Everybody In, Nobody Out” Health Security! Local Elections—Your Vote! Your Choice! 2007-02-09 Are YOU, Your Family, Neighbors Registered and Ready? During local citywide elections your vote matters. The people who are elected to these offices are making decisions closest to your home and families. You can hold them more accountable to issues that you care about because they live in your area. Tuesday, April 3, 2007 municipal elections are happening all around the State of Missouri. GRO - Grass Roots Organizing wants to encourage all voters to let their issues be heard. Contact the candidates that are running for office (city council, school board, etc)! Ask them what they plan to do to improve your neighborhood, your child’s public education and the standard of living for everyone in your community. Attend a candidates’ forum to hear what they have to say—most cities have some type of public panel. The League of Women Voters or other community group will likely hold one before the Election. Find out when! Call the County Clerk or Election Authority and ask to see a sample ballot. This will prepare you for how you want to vote and make the process easier for you on Election Day! Local elections can be decided literally by one vote—make sure yours is included in that number! If you are not registered you must do so before March 7, 2007 to be able to vote in the April 3 Election. If you have moved, changed your name or recently got off of probation or parole you need to let GRO know so a volunteer can get you registered: GRO Headquarters: 573-581-9595 GRO Outreach: 573-443-4476 Home Renters Rights 2007-02-01 Get Agreements in Writing! Housing Rights A tenancy is created whether orally or in writing when a landlord and tenant agree to the terms for the rental of property. The agreement between the landlord and tenant governing the tenancy is called a lease or a rental agreement. It establishes a tenant's right to use property for a specified length of time in exchange for payment of rent. As with any contract, the rental agreement should be in writing to avoid misunderstandings and should contain all of the terms agreed to by the parties. Before entering into a rental agreement, read it carefully and discuss all of the terms and make sure any questions are answered. Any changes to the lease should be marked on the document and initialed by both parties. Before renting property, a tenant should inspect the dwelling to be sure it meets his or her needs and is in acceptable condition. Upon moving in, make a list of all existing defects or damages, with both the landlord and tenant signing and keeping a copy of this list. Any commitments made by the landlord (such as a promise to make certain repairs) should be written into the lease, and all blank spaces should be filled in or crossed out. The renter should keep the rental or lease agreement in a safe place. It is a contract that is admissible in a court of law. Fair Housing Act Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (Fair Housing Act), as amended, prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of dwellings, and in other housing-related transactions, based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents of legal custodians, pregnant women, and people securing custody of children under the age of 18), and handicap (disability). Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Title VI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. Job Announcement 2007-02-01 Issue Organizer JOB ANNOUNCEMENT GRO - Grass Roots Organizing seeks Issue Organizer in Missouri GRO - Grass Roots Organizing, a Missouri membership driven, base-building, non-profit organization has a Issue Organizer position opening! Qualified candidates have a strong commitment to social, economic and racial justice, experience with poverty, health or electoral issues. They are willing to make contacts at doors in communities of low-income and color to advance healthcare, housing and civic participation efforts. Candidates should possess effective communication skills (oral, written, facilitation and presentation) and have the ability to impart courage, inspire, organize and motivate others to action. They take initiative, are empathetic, can coordinate simultaneous projects and build/maintain positive relationships. Experience with community / labor/ campaign organizing or related area and a bachelor degree is preferred. Oral or written Spanish communication; familiarity with Excel, Word and/or Publisher are a plus! Candidates have access to reliable transportation, possess a valid driver license, keep personal auto liability insurance coverage and are willing to drive and transport others. The Issue Organizer works some evenings and weekends and is based from central Missouri. GRO provides a competitive salary; Mileage for approved travel is reimbursed at IRS rate. Professional development training opportunity is offered. Interested candidates please send a one-two page resume to: Executive Director GRO - Grass Roots Organizing 304 S. Calhoun St. Mexico, Missouri 65265 Or email resume to robin@gromo.org The Organizer position is part-time averaging 25 - 28 hours per week with a start date likely of May 14, 2007 or soon thereafter planned. GRO LEADERSHIP MEETING 2007-02-01 GRO Agents for Change Leadership Monthly Meeting 6:30 – 8:30 PM, Tuesday, February 27, 2007 GRO Outreach Office 611 N. Garth Columbia, MO Come Make & Learn Plans, Hear Updates & How YOU Can Get Involved as GRO Agents for Change! Everybody in, Nobody out, Healthcare Campaign Progress Consumer Voices Against Rising Home Utility Costs Arming Ourselves Against Loan Sharks and Predators Preventing Bad Public Housing Policies and Practices Showing People Power in Local Elections and MORE! For a Ride or More Information Please Call GRO: Columbia: 443-4476 Mexico: 581-9595 or 9596 Children Welcome and Refreshments Served! STOP TAX REFUND RIP-OFFS 2007-01-31 Keep ALL of Your Money! IT’S YOUR CHOICE— KEEP ALL OF YOUR TAX REFUND OR LET GREEDY PREPARERS TAKE A HUGE CUT!!!!! DID YOU KNOW THAT— RAPID RIP-OFF REFUNDS LOANS HAVE COST TAXPAYERS AS MUCH AS 1700% INTEREST TO BORROW THEIR OWN MONEY! THEY TARGET PEOPLE WHO NEED MONEY FAST AND SMILE ALL THE WAY TO THEIR OWN BANKS! KEEP ALL YOUR TAX REFUND! Go to a Voluntary Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Site and let IRS certified and trained volunteers file your taxes electronically for FREE!! If you have a checking or savings account your money will be there in a week or less! Protect Your Hard Earned Money! Go to the Link Below to Find a Missouri VITA Site Near You: http:/tinyurl.com/2jmbqw There are income limits to use VITA preparers that range from 125% of poverty level based on family size to employees who earned $40,000 or less. MO Mid-Term Election 2006-10-06 General Voting Info November 7th Voting Information— In addition to State and Federal candidate elections, four Missouri constitutional amendments and one statutory measure will be on the ballot to decide. Several of these issues are likely of great interest to you. Read more about them at the following link: http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2006ballot/default.asp#general To register to vote in Missouri, you must: • be a United States citizen • be a resident of Missouri (new residents may register immediately, but proof of residency is required). • provide proof of residency, which includes a copy of an appropriate I.D., such as a current photo I.D., or a current utility bill, bank statement, paycheck or other official document that shows your name and address. • register at least 28 days prior to the election (Voter registration forms must be postmarked by October 11, 2006; in-person registrations must also be completed and turned in by October 11, 2006) • be at least 17-1/2 years of age (you must be 18 by November 7, 2006) •not be on probation or parole after conviction of a felony For additional information on voter registration, contact: http://www.sos.mo.gov/elections/s_default.asp?id=voting Again, Remember, the deadline to register for the upcoming November 7 Election is Wednesday, October 11. Voter Ed Training 2006-10-06 Audrain County Clerk GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Presents— Public Voter Education Training With special guest: Local Election Authority Shelly Harvey, Audrain County Clerk JOIN US! Shelly will have sample November 7 ballots and voting equipment on hand for demonstration! 6:30 – 8:00 PM, Thursday, October 26th Audrain County Courthouse Community Room (basement) To use the elevator, please enter main level courthouse door with ramp- Located on the south side of courthouse For more information or for a ride— Please call GRO: 581-9595 Children are welcome and refreshments provided! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing is a central Missouri based non-profit, non-partisan, public education and community development organization. Community Dialogue on Healthcare and Utilities 2006-08-17 Do YOU have to make tough choices? GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Presents: A Community Dialogue on Utilities & Healthcare With Skyrocketing Utility and Healthcare Costs Do You or Loved Ones Ever Have to Make Tough Choices? Summer Chill or Pay the Bill? Shell Out for Health Care or Have Quality Child Care? Winter Heat or Family Eat? Fill the Gas Tank or Forgo the Bank? Let’s find ways to improve our families’ situations! Join us and learn what you can do to Stand up, Speak out and Fight back! Thursday, September 7, 2006 6:30 – 8:30 PM Audrain County Courthouse Community Room (basement) On the Square in Mexico, Missouri Special Guests: Steve Gaw, Missouri Public Service Commissioner Jeffrey Mazur, Field Director, MO State Council of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) For a Ride or More Information Please Call GRO: Mexico: 581-9595 or 9596 Columbia: 443-4476 Children Welcome and Refreshments Served! GRO’s a statewide non-profit group based in central MO that gives voice to individuals, families and communities in the pursuit of economic justice and human rights. GRO Leadership Monthly Meeting 2006-07-11 Listen, Learn and Lead! GRO – Grass Roots Organizing Leadership Monthly Meeting Thursday, August 3rd 6:30 – 8:30PM GRO Outreach Office 611 North Garth Street, Columbia, Missouri Come and Learn: • What’s on the August Primary Ballot(s) • How to Make Our Voices Heard During the Primary Election • Missouri Voter Issues Project (MO-VIP) and How to Get Involved! • Updates on Other Interests of Ours and Plans to Win! For a Ride or More Information Please Call: (573) 581-9595 or (573) 443-4476. Refreshments Served and Children Welcome! Medicaid Reform Iniative Campaign -to Save Medicaid! 2006-06-06 Volunteers Deliver Thousands of Signatures to Sec of State Missouri Medicaid Reform Initiative Petition Report- 06/01/06 GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Leadership Meeting Pam Forbes, GRO Leader Those of us affected by Medicaid during several planning meetings last fall and winter along with disability groups were part of the decision to do a Medicaid ballot initiative. GRO decided what should be included in it to save Medicaid. GRO Staff Robin Acree and Daniel Espinosa took the direction and wrote the comprehensive ballot language and format themselves on a trip to the boot heel. December 15, 2005 our Medicaid Reform Initiative petition was approved by the Missouri Secretary of State for circulation. January 4th we launched the campaign at a press conference at the capitol. To get the statutory law change on the ballot we needed to circulate and collect signatures equivalent to 5% of the votes cast in the 2004 gubernatorial election by the May 7, 2006 deadline. Or we needed nearly 90,000 valid voters’ signatures, about 15,000 in each of 6 of 9 Congressional Districts. Voters who signed wanted to have the opportunity to vote in November to restore the 2005 Medicaid cuts and some previously cut, expand Medicaid eligibility to elderly and disabled seniors to 100% of the poverty level and keep the program beyond the current June 30, 2008 deadline. GRO rocked. Our volunteers collected nearly 80,000 signatures in 4 of the 6 Districts ourselves. We had 395 volunteer circulators. We used no paid signature gatherers and had no million dollar(s) budget like other initiatives did in our State. Leaders helped (without sleep) organize, copy, file, number, box and deliver the petitions and many of us left a few hours later for Washington, DC. On May 5, 2006 GRO volunteers submitted about 94,000 signatures on our initiative petition. Each signature can almost tell a personal struggle or healthcare story. Out of sixteen initiatives approved for circulating by the Secretary of State we are one of six submitted and now one of four that have not been disqualified for insufficient page numbering and/or ballot title not affixed to all pages. The MO Secretary of State has to let us know whether we made the ballot or not by August 13, 2006. This campaign took stamina, sacrifice and determination on our bodies, families, jobs and weighed on our hearts and minds daily for four months. It took a lot of commitment. This grassroots civic engagement initiative was unprecedented in our State and Country—we made history! Amazingly, it was also led and primarily administered by women! Building People & Power Academy #5 2006-06-06 Grassroots Tool Box for Change Leadership Academy #5 5:00 PM, Friday, June 23 – 7:00 PM, Saturday, June 24, 2006 Ramada Inn Highway 54 West Outer Road—1510 Jefferson Street Jefferson City, Missouri Academy is by invitation only. Participants should be willing to attend the entire sessions. The primary purpose of this GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Leadership Academy: • Strengthen GRO Leadership Roles and Membership Skills • Develop a Clear Understanding of GRO Civic Participation and Healthcare Organizing Work • Provide Opportunities for New and Seasoned Leaders to Work Together Hands On and Build Relationships Criteria for Selection: • Current dues paying member, GRO staff and/or intern • Active involvement in the Medicaid fight and shown leadership • Interest in building a strong base of support to win Voting and Healthcare Rights! GRO Volunteer Appreciation Day at the Park 2006-06-06 Celebrating the People Who Get Things Done! Dues Paid GRO Members: Invite the Whole Family for Food, Fun and Prizes! Come Celebrate GRO Wins and People Who Get Things Done! 11:00-3:30pm, Saturday, June 17 Lawrence Shelter-Plunkett Park, Mexico, MO Directions: Exit # 148 from I-70 and take Highway 54 East, Take first Mexico Exit from Highway 54, At stoplight turn LEFT onto W BOULEVARD, Turn RIGHT next stoplight onto S MULDROW continue to follow Highway 15 straight through 3rd stoplight Turn LEFT onto HENDRICKS by Casey’s and Follow the Signs! Live Entertainment, Skate Park (Bring boards/skates), Frisbee Golf, Playground, Fishing (Bring rod, tackle, bait and MO fishing license), BINGO and More! 12:00-1:00pm Lunch Served 2:00-3:00pm Volunteer Recognition Ceremony GRO will provide drinks, eating supplies and main course. Please prepare & bring your favorite dish/recipe! March Forth on March 4th! 2006-02-27 For Healthcare and Democracy* MARCH FORTH! On MARCH 4th! For Healthcare Access —Mandating the Peoples Will with the Medicaid Reform Initiative Petition! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing volunteers will march forth to the ends of the state to circulate the grassroots initiative petition to save Missouri Medicaid! We’ll collect hundreds of voters’ signatures to help get the issue on the November 7, 2006 ballot! We can also register new voters! Everyone welcome! Please join us! Saturday, March 4, 2006 10:30-3:00 PM (bring sack lunch) St. Louis— SEIU Local Office- Lower Level parking in rear 2725 Clifton, St. Louis, MO 63139 Kansas City— CWA Local Office 14801 E. 42nd St. S, Independence, MO 64055 Vans depart Columbia & Mexico GRO Offices 8:00 AM sharp (space limited). For ride/ info call Mexico HQ: 573-581-9595, Columbia Outreach: 573-443-4476, or KC Field: 816-765-9533 * Wear walking shoes- dress for weather! Sweetheart Luncheon Planned 2006-01-05 Fundraiser for NPA GRO - Grass Roots Organizing 3rd Annual Sweetheart Luncheon & Silent Auction Saturday, February 11, 2006 11:00 am to 2:00 pm First Presbyterian Church 400 Lakeview, Mexico, MO [Fried chicken, potatoes/gravy, green beans, dessert and drink included] Tickets (1) for $8 or (2) for $12 Contact Chairperson: Dorothy Thomas (573) 564-3609 or GRO Headquarters (573) 581-9595 if you want to sell or buy tickets! Proceeds help send GRO members to the National Peoples Action Conference in Washington, DC in May. Medicaid Reform Petition Certified 2006-01-05 Peoples Agenda Folks Gather Signatures Healthcare Partner: GRO - Grass Roots Organizing is pleased to announce that the Missouri Medicaid Reform Petition has been certified for circulation by the MO Secretary of State Robin Carnahan! If we can get the required registered voter signatures by the end of April (about 120,000)Medicaid reforms will be on the November 2006 ballot for the people of Missouri to decide. This offers hope to thousands of Missourians and it would allow those cut from Medicaid and others facing the total elimination a way to save the public health insurance. GRO and other groups have formed a campaign called the Peoples Agenda Fund. If you or your group(s) wants to know how to become part of the alliance please call the GRO Headquarters (573) 581-9595 / 9596 or email: daniel@gromo.org or robin@gromo.org Petitions are out for signature gathering. The Peoples Agenda folks conducted a news conference Wednesday, January 4, 2006,at the Missouri State Capitol to kick off the Peoples Agenda campaign and to offer training and materials to circulators. Please let us know if you want to help in this ambitious endeavor! Let’s kick off 2006 with a great base building and hope giving effort for the people of Missouri who need access to government funded healthcare: Medicaid. 6th Annual Holiday Party 2005-11-28 Members Enjoy Fun, Food and Fellowship! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Annual Holiday Party! 6:00 – 8:30 PM Tuesday, December 13, 2005 Garfield Community Center Adjacent to the Mexico Housing Authority Offices 828 Garfield Street Mexico, Missouri Come join us in celebrating the holiday season and for an evening packed full of food, friends, fun, games and prizes! GRO will provide some rides from Columbia but space is limited! You must RSVP or let us know you need a ride by December 9, 2005. Your children are welcome! But, please let us know if you are bringing them or not! We need a head count for children activities. For a ride from Columbia please contact the GRO Outreach office, 611 N. Garth (573) 443-4476 and for additional information or for a local Mexico ride please call the GRO Headquarters at (573) 581-9595. Those members who are traveling from other Missouri communities please let us know! We might be able to work out car pool(s) so others can attend! Please bring your filled up 2005 GRO Membership Card and dues for your upcoming 2006 membership! Annual Fall Review 2005-11-02 Dues Paying GRO Members We Want to Hear From You! ATTENTION: ALL DUES PAYING GRO MEMBERS Our Annual Fall Review is Here and We Want to Hear from YOU! GRO - Grass Roots Organizing is conducting our evaluation of this year’s campaigns, projects, special events and progress! To Know Where We are Going—We need to Understand Where We Were and Where We Are Now! MARK YOUR CALENDAR and ATTEND! Tuesday, November 15, 2005 6:30 – 8:30 PM GRO Outreach Office 611 N. Garth Columbia, MO Please let us know if you are coming, need more information, childcare or if we are able to provide a ride! GRO Headquarters: 573-581-9595 GRO Outreach: 573-443-4476 Jefferson City: 573-462-0506 November 8th Columbia, MO Special Election 2005-11-02 Sales Tax-- The Poor Shouldn't Pay More VOTE Tuesday November 8 Columbia, Missouri 1st Ward Polling Places: 1A National Guard Armory, 701 E. Ash 1B Paquin Towers, 1201 Pauquin 1C Boone County Health Dept., 1005 W. Worley 1D Oak Towers, 700 N. Garth 1E Memorial Union, 518 Hitt St. 1F Activity & Recreation Center, 1701 W. Ash 1G Calvary Baptist Activities Bldg., 606 Ridgeway Ave. 1H Eugene Field School, 1010 Rangeline For a Ride call GRO at 443-4476 The following measures will be on the ballot to vote YES or NO on: Proposition 1, Sales Tax Should the city of Columbia impose a1/8 of one percent sales tax for five years? . . . Proposition 2, Sales Tax Should the city of Columbia impose a sales tax of 1/8 of one percent for two years? . . . Proposition 3, Sales Tax Should the city of Columbia impose a sales tax of 1/4 of one percent for three years? . . . Proposition 4, Sales Tax Should the city of Columbia impose a sales tax of 1/4 of one percent for seven years? . . . Proposition 5, Sales Tax Should the city of Columbia impose a sales tax of 1/8 of one percent for ten years? . . . Proposition 6, Development Charge Should the city of Columbia increase the development charge for arterial and collector street construction from 10 to 50 cents per square foot of the total floor area of new construction? . . . VOTE For a Ride call GRO at 443-4476 . . . POOR SHOULDN’T PAY MORE STOP SALES TAX INCREASES! Sales taxes hurt lower-middle income taxpayers. The rich barely notice them, but for others it means that the cost of groceries, gas, clothes and other services goes up while they try to make ends meet. In Missouri low-income people already pay a higher share of their income in sales taxes compared to wealthier taxpayers. How much are you paying in Missouri taxes? Income Group: % of Income Paid in Taxes $15,000 or less 9.9% $15,000-$25,000 9.4% $25,000-$41,000 9.3% $41,000-$67,000 9.1% $67,000-$123,000 7.8% $123,000-$271,000 6.9% $271,000 or more 5.3% Who Pays? A Distribution Analysis of the Tax Systems in all 50 States, 2nd Edition, Institute on Taxation & Economic Policy, January 2003. Big companies and the rich should pay their share in MO. Support fair taxation. And let’s keep Columbia strong! Leadership Meeting & Potluck Supper 2005-10-14 “How Does Sales Tax Affect People with Low-income?" GRO- Grass Roots Organizing Leadership Meeting & Potluck Supper Bring a Dish of Food! GRO will Provide Drinks and Tableware! The Public is Welcome! Friday, October 21, 2005 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. GRO Outreach Office 611 North Garth-- Columbia “How Does Sales Tax Affect People with Low-Income?” Special Guest Speaker: Kelly Davis-- Policy Analyst, Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy For more information and/or a ride, call: Mexico Headquarters 573-581-9595 or Columbia Outreach Office 573-443-4476. BLUNT TRAUMA 2005-09-22 DVD ON SALE NOW!! On July 1, 2005 Missouri’s state budget went into effect initiating the loss of health care coverage for over 90,000 disabled, elderly and low-income people in Missouri. The same day GRO – Grass Roots Organizing released a 30-minute video to the public exposing the refusal of Missouri Governor Matt Blunt and state lawmakers to listen to the needs of Missouri’s most mentally and physically vulnerable citizens before slashing away at funding for vital health services and scheduling Missouri’s Medicaid program for elimination by 2008. /Blunt Trauma/* tells the story of GRO’s fight to protect the health coverage of Missouri’s most vulnerable against a Governor who shuts the door on his own people.* For more information or to order a Blunt Trauma DVD please contact Daniel Espinosa daniel@gromo.org GRO Communications Organizer Producer and Director of /Blunt Trauma/ FAIR HEALTH FAIR 2005-08-28 IN THE STATE OF EMERGENCY (formerly the State of Missouri FAIR HEALTH FAIR Wednesday, September 14 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday, September 15 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM South Lawn at the Emergency State Capitol building-- Jefferson City GRO - Grass Roots Organizing members and allies are encouraged to attend both days! Lunch and refreshment provided and healthcare professionals and service providers will be on hand to assist you under our Emergency Fair Health Tents! Our hope is to have a variety of health screenings and services available at no cost and an Advocacy tent to let your voice be heard! We are going to try and provide buses and vans to transport folks from several Emergency communities from across the State. Sign up now for a ride on a bus or van as space is limited! For more information contact GRO - Grass Roots Organizing (Mexico) 573-581-9595, 581-9596, (Columbia) 573-443-4476, (Jefferson City) 573-462-0506 or info@gromo.org GRO TURNS FIVE YEARS OLD 2005-08-21 October Celebration to Mark 5 Years of Justice Making! GRO WINS – REAL RESULTS FOR REAL PEOPLE GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Invites You to Join Us for Our 5th Anniversary Celebration! Ramada Inn Hotel – Columbia, MO At I-70 and Rangeline Saturday, October 8, 2005 5:00 – 6:30 PM Reception and Silent Auction 6:30 – 7:30 PM Dinner and Key Note Speaker: TBA(Current Dues Paying GRO Members and Their Household are Free!) Other Adult Guests present for the dinner--tickets are on sale and available now or at the door that includes reception and (3) entrée buffet style dinner for only $20.00 each 8:00 – 11:00 PM Blunt Trauma Video Showing, Live Performances, DJ, Dance, Cake and Door Prizes! Children are welcome and onsite childcare provided from 8:00 – 11:00 PM. Please let us know you are coming and RSVP by calling (573) 581-9595 or 581-9596 or emailing brandi@gromo.org no later than September 28, 2005. AUGUST 25 - LEADERSHIP MONTHLY MEETING 2005-08-21 Health Rights Access Project Update & Blunt Trauma Video GRO invites our members and public to our August Leadership Monthly meeting! Thursday, August 25, 2005 6:30 - 6:30 PM GRO Outreach Office 611 North Garth Street Columbia, Missouri Staff, Interns and Leaders will give an update on GRO Health Rights work and show the Blunt Trauma video we created that documents the fight to save Medicaid during the last legislative session. For a ride or more information call GRO HQ 573.581-9595/ 581-9596 or GRO Outreach 573.443.4476 or in Jeff City 573.462.0506. Missouri Fact Sheet 2005-06-22 Poverty Stats and Other Truths Missouri Fact Sheet (June 2005) There are approximately 5.7 million people total living in 114 Missouri counties including the City of St. Louis. The Missouri Latino population has more than doubled since the 1990’s and they are mostly younger ages 5 to 24. Over 750,000 Missourians live in poverty conditions. Almost one-quarter of a million Missouri people are living in a working poor family. (In 2005 dollars that means that their annual incomes were less than $16,090 for a family of three, or no more than $19,350 for a family of four.) The number of working poor families has grown significantly over the last 20 years and they make up over 82% of the uninsured in Missouri. Over one million Missouri residents are uninsured and thousands more are underinsured. Only about 297,000 of Missouri families receive Food Stamps as of May 2005 (the average caseload beneficiaries in 2004 was 678,981). A mere 46,000 Missouri families with children receive Temporary Assistance or TANF welfare cash payment (a family of three has $292 total per month to live on). Just 46,100 of Missouri children receive childcare subsidy payments. In 2004 Missouri Child Support Enforcement had nearly 400,000 child support cases. Over 10,000 physically and/or mentally disabled or chronically ill Missourians awaiting federal disability determinations have NO income and many of them now will have no access to health insurance coverage. Federal policies and tax cuts for the wealthy are worsening Missouri budget problems and have cost Missouri more than $4 billion over the last four and a half years—cuts have occurred far harsher in the Department of Social Services programs and services than anywhere else. Missouri is the only state in the country to have laws passed to phase out and end their Medicaid health insurance program (2008). STEPS YOU CAN TAKE 2005-06-09 To Fight for the Future of Healthcare in Missouri GRO-Grass Roots Organizing 304 South Calhoun Street Mexico, Missouri 65265 Mexico: 573.581.9595 Columbia: 573.443.4476 Jefferson City: 573.462.0506 info@gromo.org www.gromo.org Steps You Can Take To fight for the future of Health Care in Missouri ASK FOR A HEARING If you are notified by the State of Missouri that your Medicaid benefits are being eliminated, reduced or changed—ask for a hearing and attend the hearing to go on record opposing the decision the action that Social Services has taken and state how the cut or change can or will harm you and or your family. COLLECT STORIES If you are not directly affected by Medicaid changes then go to a hearing with a friend and/or attend a “mass” hearing and collect information on surveys and/ or stories that folks are willing to share. TELL YOUR STORY Volunteer to share your Medicaid story with GRO -Grass Roots Organizing and we can publish it on video, radio, the internet and other formats. We will expose the harm that these are cuts are doing to Missourians. LEGAL ACTION If you want to take legal action against the State of Missouri contact GRO and we can refer you to attorneys who want to bring legal challenges forward. PUBLIC OFFICIALS Make sure that you and your family members are registered voters and that you are holding your elected officials accountable for their actions. GO DOOR-TO-DOOR Volunteer to go canvass with GRO to inform others about the healthcare crisis, have them fill out a survey, make sure they are a registered voter and ask them to get involved in the fight for the future of health care in Missouri. MEDIA TRAINING If you are interested in sharing your story with the media let us know and GRO can contact you when conducting media work. DIRECT ACTION! Participate in rallies and direct action opportunities when GRO brings folks together to protest the cuts and demand health care access. JOIN GRO! Become a dues-paying member of GRO -Grass Roots Organizing. Join our friendly family of folks, get leadership training, issues education and much much more! Please Fill Out and Return to: GRO- Grass Roots Organizing 304 South Calhoun Street Mexico, Missouri 65265 Name Address Phone and/or Email Check all that Apply: . I will ask for a hearing. . I would like to know if someone is available to go with me to my hearing. . I am willing to attend hearings to support people and administer surveys. . I am willing to share my Medicaid story. . I am interested in being part of a possible lawsuit. . I am a registered voter. . I am willing to talk to media. . I want to attend a GRO action or rally. . I am willing to volunteer to go door-to-door in (locations). . I want more information about becoming a dues-paying member of GRO— Grass Roots Organizing. . I belong to a group and want to know how we can colloborate with GRO to fight for health care. Name of the group Summer Job Announcement 2005-05-17 GRO Seeks Community Outreach Workers for Summer 2005 GRO - Grass Roots Organizing, a direct action / social justice organization for no to low income Missourians seeks part-time summer Community Outreach Workers. Some duties include going door-to door in communities, conducting surveys, interviews, collecting personal stories, registering voters and explaining education materials. Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours, provide personal transportation, have some college education, respect confidentiality and communicate in diverse settings. Send resume to GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Headquarters, 304 South Calhoun Street, Mexico, Missouri 65265 or email resume to info@gromo.org by 5:00 PM, June 1, 2005. May 6th Action 2005-04-28 THE DEMISE OF MEDICAID IN MISSOURI MEMORIAL SERVICE & FUNERAL PROCESSION Friday May 6, 11:30am-2:30pm Jefferson City, MO Governor Blunt is expected to sign the 2006 budget and has already signed a bill that authorizes ending Missouri Medicaid by 2008! BLUNT cuts hurt! Join us and wear black for those whose lives are in danger! Rides available from Mexico and Columbia. From Mexico, Missouri Be at GRO office at 9:45 AM Buses Depart Promptly at 10:00 AM! Mexico GRO Office 304 S. Calhoun Mexico, MO 65265 573-581-9595 or 581-9596 From Columbia, Missouri Be at the GRo Office at 10:00 AM Buses Depart Promptly at 10:15 AM! Columbia GRO Outreach Office 611 N. Garth St., Suite 3 Columbia, MO 65203 573-443-4476 Printable version available here. Stop Medicaid Cuts Rally & Actions 2005-04-27 April 6 “Stop the Medicaid Cuts” Rally & Actions GRO led the coalition of over a thousand people in a march to the Missouri Capitol building steps on April 6, 2005. As the crowd swelled Robin Acree raised the volume another notch every few seconds chanting “Don’t Cut Medicaid!” and “One Term Blunt!” After a round of powerful speakers challenged the legislature to reinstate Medicaid dollars in the final budget bill Nan Chamberlain, GRO intern and Medicaid consumer, closed the rally with a promise to the Governor that he would be held accountable for denying Missourians access to health care. Following the rally GRO led a contingency of a 300 people up to the Governor’s office to demand a meeting with Chief of Staff, Ken McClure or Matt Blunt himself. They crowded the hall outside the office singing “America the Beautiful” and “Matt, Matt Come on Out, See What Missouri’s All About!” Robin Acree and the Rev. James Morris told the office that the crowd would not leave until we got a meeting. Within 20 minutes they agreed to have Ken McClure meet with them. In the meeting Robin Acree offered Ken McClure one last chance to help the Governor save face by reinstating Medicaid funding before the budget deadline. McClure told them he would convey our message to Blunt and get back to GRO regarding a follow-up meeting. MEDIA WAGING WAR ON THE WORKING POOR - MISSOURI'S MEDICAID SHAME: Arrogance of power 04/04/2005 Rally protests Medicaid cuts at legislature By MIKE EKEY April 7, 2005 Crowd protests Medicaid cuts More than 1,000 rally on Capitol steps. By SARA AGNEW of the Tribune’s staff Published Thursday, April 7, 2005 KOMU Channel 8 MAY 6th Action Governor's Waste 2005-03-14 THE GOVERNOR'S WASTE Over 100 people, mostly Medicaid consumers, filled the Missouri State Capitol rotunda on Wednesday, February 16, 2005. We unveiled an “art installation” criticizing Governor Matt Blunt’s characterization of Medicaid as a “wasteful” program. Members of GRO and Paraquad brought forth their crutches, wheelchairs, prosthesis, medication containers and other medical paraphernalia and piled them into a garbage dumpster. We demanded that our Governor and state law-makers not steal our health coverage. The Missouri Budget Project also participated in the event. Media Coverage Missourian KOMU Channel 8 Missouri Digital News St. Louis Post Dispatch Jefferson City News Tribune Photos (Jason Johns/Missourian) GRO Members response to Governor Blunt’s Proposed Budget, January 27, 2005. The Belleville News Democrat March FORTH on March 4th 2005-03-11 Access to Healthcare, Good Jobs, & Freedoms First FRIDAY, March 4, 2005 Jefferson City, MO GRO-Grass Roots Organizing organized over 250 people to come to Jefferson City, Missouri who MARCHED FORTH on MARCH 4th! Protesters carrying signs and banners chanted “Blunt, Blunt We Won’t Be Swayed! Your Cuts are WRONG-- Cause You’re Corporate Paid!” GRO-Grass Roots Organizing hosted the event to draw the public’s attention to the draconian budget proposed by Missouri Governor Matt Blunt that will cost over 100,000 people their only access to healthcare and a loss of over 10,000 jobs! GRO and allies took to the streets with the destination of the Governor’s Mansion in sight and promised that they will be back and that they’d be stronger! (Photos by Daniel Espinosa) News Articles Columbia Missourian News Tribune Jefferson City KSDK The Maneater The Belleville News Democrat “Coverage of March Forth on March 4th was also broadcast on KRCG TV (CBS affiliate), Jefferson City KOMU TV (NBC affiliate), Columbia KNLJ TV (New Life Evangelistic Center), New Bloomfield KLIK Radio (ABC affiliate), Jefferson City KTRS Radio, St. Louis” 2005 First Monthly Meeting 2005-01-04 GRO- Grass Roots Organizing Invites YOU to Our… 1st Leadership Monthly Meeting of 2005 Thursday, January 13, 2005 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM Second Christian Church 703 E. Dunklin Street Jefferson City, MO (Refreshments Provided) Come and Learn: •What GRO will work on and organize in 2005 •What GRO members’ do to make change •Opportunities to GROW with GRO •How YOU can become involved in GRO and/or recruit others to join The GRO – Grass Roots Organizing mission is “to create a grassroots mechanism that gives voice to individuals and communities in the pursuit of economic justice and human rights.” We believe people power makes a difference! For more info visit our web page www.gromo.org or email info@gromo.org Or for info or a ride call GRO Headquarters (573) 581-9595 or 581-9596 Columbia Outreach Office (573) 443-4476 (Labor Donated) GRO History 4 Years of Winning 2004-11-11 Highlights of GRO Issues Work GRO – Grass Roots Organizing is a non-profit 501(3) 3 community based organization that reached four years maturity on October 13, 2004. Our dues paying membership is approximately 80% of no to low income families living primarily in rural central Missouri. Our current membership is comprised of a little more than 300 family members. The purpose of our group is to engage low-income, women, people of color, physically challenged, in community organizing efforts, leadership development opportunities, civic participation activities and issue campaigns to win systemic change for our struggling residents. The GRO – Grass Roots Organizing mission is “to create a grassroots mechanism that gives voice to individuals and communities in the pursuit of economic justice and human rights.” We have accomplished many victories for our constituencies who have health challenges, need public assistance programs and who have historically been denied access to decision–making: Access to Education: Advocated legislation that allows welfare recipients to allow continuing education as a recognized work activity to remain eligible for benefits for up to five years or 60-months. Access to Family Supports: Prevented Missouri's of Child Support Enforcement from taking monthly collection fees from current child support. Obligated Department of Social Services to send out a letter to over 300 families that reached their time limit for welfare benefits allowing them the opportunity for review of their circumstances and consideration for hardship extension benefits. Extended the reauthorization of Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and prevented hurtful policies and cuts from being added to the legislation in collaboration with other grassroots groups from across the country. Fought to retain General Relief cash payment for our residents awaiting federal disability determination and we have successfully brought the program to the forefront during key budgetary debates. Created Child Support Insurance policies that have been introduced as Missouri legislative bills in both the House and Senate during the past (3) years. Access to Housing Rights: Passed a city ordinance in Columbia, Missouri that created a 120-day grace period for families evicted or displaced based on the sale or rezoning of an existing trailer park. In coalition advanced the 120-day time frame into Missouri law this year. Organized Columbia Square apartment residents to fight for housing improvements. Prevented the Columbia Housing Authority from taking ownership of public streets. Battle Against Hunger: Negotiated reforms that include longer re-certification periods, improved and easier application process and extended office hours for the food stamp program consumer. Rescinded a State mean-spirited Food Stamp policy that penalized families with children under age six by reducing their benefits to the program if the parent was not employed. Obligated MO Food Stamp Administrators to implement state options of the federal Farm Bill that ensures increased access to food. The USDA has recognized Missouri as a leader in the country in Food Stamp participation rates. Access to Healthcare: Prevented with others, thousands of adults and children from losing healthcare and Medicaid coverage in Missouri. Retained Medicaid health insurance for our most vulnerable General Relief folks during strict budgetary negotiations. Organized residents and conducted community meetings across central Missouri to elevate the “Repeal of the Medicare Prescription Bill” issue to our elected officials and the public. Access to Basic Needs: Prevented AmerenUE from a ridiculous increase in fees to be passed on to the consumer to pay for. Organized and testified to the Public Service Commissioners to increase the “ Cold Weather Rule” for utility disconnects in the winter from 30 degrees. A hard fought battle with big utility companies resulted in a change of 32 degrees and less payment for low-income and elderly to have to pay to restore heating services. In coalition with concerned citizens we got our Congressman Kenny Hulshof to support and obtain motion doors for improved access at the Columbia Post Office. Engage Key Policy Decision Makers: Secured face to face ongoing meetings and leadership discussions regarding Social Service Programs with Governor Bob Holden and his staff, Steve Roling, Director of the Missouri Department of Social Services and his staff. Meetings provide GRO leadership with influential access in shaping both the policy and budgetary agenda for low- and moderate-income families and communities of color. Met with Missouri Senate and House leadership and held successful advocacy events and dialogue to educate and promote our positions. Access to Civic Participation and the Electoral Process: GRO volunteers have successfully registered going door to door over 3,200 new voters in mid-Missouri who are now eligible to vote on November 2, 2004. GRO has collected over 1,750 pledges to vote in the General Election from our local communities. We have gained local, state and national attention with our successful community-voting project and have recruited volunteers who have worked since April and who are willing to continue to work to turnout over 1,000 people to the polls on Election Day. GRO is working to ensure voter protection and fair access to the polls for our constituencies up to and including Election Day. Help GRO Educate and Mobilize Voters 2004-10-20 GRO - Grass Roots Organizing Missouri Voters Issues Project (MO-VIP) is voter registration, voter education, voter protection and voter turnout for the the NOVEMBER 2- GENERAL ELECTION!!! Volunteers are needed before and during the day of the Election! We need folks willing to help us in one or more of 3 communities--- * Audrain Mexico * Boone Columbia * Cole Jefferson City We need volunteers willing to: * Make phone calls * Door knock and leaflet * Feed us * Give rides to the polls * Make copies If you are not able to help us in person, we can use donations of food, gas money, childcare, phone lines and copy paper! Please contact us at GRO Headquarters 573-581-9595 or GRO Outreach 573-443-4476 or email us at info@gromo.org Voter Turnout and Election Day Trainings scheduled 2004-10-20 Attend a training near YOU! Friday, October 29, 2004 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM Jefferson City-- Quinn Chapel AME Church 529 Lafayette St. Mexico- GRO Headquarters 304 S. Calhoun St. Columbia- GRO Outreach Office 611 N. Garth St. WE NEED YOU! Come and help us plan and coordinate volunteer efforts in the above three communities to make the final push for and during the November 2 Election Day! High rise residents protest to get polling place moved back 2004-07-15 About a dozen people stood in front of the Dulle and Hamilton Towers in Jefferson City on Tuesday morning, carrying signs urging Cole County Clerk Marvin Register to return their precinct's polling place to the high rise complex. Register last year moved the Ward 2, Precinct 1, polling place from Dulle Tower, 10 Jackson St., to the Instructional Resource Center, 214 E. Miller St. GRO Newsletter 2004-06-28 Download our newest newsletter The Winter/Spring 2004 GRO newsletter! Summer / Fall edition out soon!!! 2004-06-22 GRO Leaders continue to fight battles on many fronts. Our leaders are nationally recognized for their efforts. We have not given up the fight--we have only started! Some recent GRO wins include: Rescinded a State mean-spirited Food Stamp policy that penalized families with children under age six by reducing their benefits to the program if the parent was not employed. Secured face to face ongoing meetings and leader negotiations regarding Medicaid, Child Support, Welfare to Work and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) programs with: Missouri Lt. Governor Maxwell, MO Department of Social Services Director, Katherine Martin. We have met with members of the Governor’s staff and we plan to follow-up with a meeting with Governor Bob Holden in the next few weeks. Obligated the Governor to make the Department of Social Services send out a letter to the 307 sanctioned and time limited families that were cut from welfare cash assistance in July offering them the opportunity for review of their circumstances and consideration for hardship extensions benefits. Educated Congressman Hulshof and United States Senator Carnahan by providing personal stories and ideas for anti-poverty proposals preparing for federal Welfare Reauthorization. Requested Boone County Commissioners hold public hearings about poor conditions of mobile home parks and lack of quality control standards or protections for residents. (October 7, 2002) Intervened with consumer litigation to restore Medicaid benefits for mothers’ transitioning from welfare to work who were cut from the health insurance program July 1st of this year. Forced responses from Senator Bond, the Governor, etc. in our written, audio and television media and phone calls that drew attention to welfare reform issues at key times. Provided personal stories and national media spokespeople for federal Food Stamps and Welfare Reauthorization efforts with the National Campaign for Jobs & Income Support. Placed and set-up University of MO computers in the homes of our board members with Linux software and technical assistance provided from a local Linux user group and Welfare Law Center–LINC project. We are the first community-organizing group to implement a program using this free software in the country. Annual Volunteer Appreciation Picnic a SUCCESS! 2004-06-22 June 19, 2004 our annual picnic was held at Plunkett park from 11-3. Member Kaye Miller says the higlight of her afternoon was seeing the children have so much fun. Everyone enjoyed their BBQ, fried chicken and gift bags. Volunteer for GRO and receive your invitation for next year. General Relief Action Notice 2004-02-07 GRO- Grass Roots Organizing 304 South Calhoun Street Mexico, Missouri 65265 Mexico: 573.581.9595 Columbia: 573.474.1983 Fax: 573.581.1255 Creating a grassroots mechanism that gives voice to individuals and communities in the pursuit of economic justice and human rights. If YOU or Someone YOU Care About Receives Missouri General Relief Payments and got a Letter Stating there Will be a Reduction of Benefits from $70 to ZERO Dollars Effective August 1, 2003, Here are Steps GRO Suggest You Take to FIGHT THIS INJUSTICE: 1. Call your local county welfare office and ask to speak to your caseworker. Tell them that you request a FACE TO FACE and PRIVATE HEARING and that you DISAGREE with this action! 2. To request special accommodations for your hearing call this toll-free number 1-800-473-0302. 3. Tell your county worker that you want LEGAL REPRESENTATION-AN ATTORNEY to represent you and that you CANNOT AFFORD one. 4. Put in writing all your requests and send it by mail, email or fax to the County DFS office and keep a copy for your records and send another copy to: Steve Roling, Director, MO Department of Social Services, PO Box 1527, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102-1527. 5. Call Governor Bob Holden and ask him why he cannot provide supplemental monies in the 2004 budget to continue to pay $70 in benefits? Tell him or his staff person Patrick Lynn the hardship and hurt this causes you (573) 751-3222. 6. Call YOUR MO State Representative at home (If you do not know who this person is, GRO or other helping agency can get this information for you!). Ask them what they plan to do to fix this injustice? Tell them about the hurt that this causes you! 7. Call YOUR MO State Senator at home (If you do not know who this person is, GRO or other helping agency can get this information for you!). Ask them what they plan to do to fix this injustice? Tell them about the hurt that this causes you! 8. Join GRO and others to TELL the public and media about this! Write Letters to newspapers, call-in to radio shows, attend rallies, etc. GRO and others are looking for finding or making a way to keep this vital General Relief program funded! Don’t give up-Stand up! Speak Out! Fight Back! “SHOW ME” SOLIDARITY! 2004-02-07 We need TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) reauthorized this year! A marching crowd of more than 250 people snaked through downtown St. Louis in sweltering heat during a rally August 22nd that marked the sixth anniversary of the federal welfare law and demanded positive change this year in the reauthorization of welfare and anti-poverty programs. Carrying signs that read "GED to PHD Lift us out of Poverty" and chanting "Six bucks really sucks," the group marched from Kiener Plaza to the office of U.S. Senator Jean Carnahan, D-Missouri at the Eagleton Federal Building. There, GRO-Grass Roots Organizing and Welfare Action Group leaders representing Service Employees International Union Local 50; Jobs with Justice; Missouri Advocates for Work, Welfare and Families; Southside Welfare Rights; Citizens for Missouri’s Children; St. Louis ACORN; Missouri State Workers and others presented Carnahan's staff with a ladder outlining steps the Senate should take this year to help families climb out of poverty. The message was: Increase funds for child care and TANF; Ensure all families are treated with dignity and respect; Reward work and workers' efforts to obtain "self-sufficiency;" Offer opportunities for education and training; and Restore benefits to hard working, tax-paying legal immigrants! During the media conference Carletta Connor, GRO Board member and TANF mother, exclaimed, “I have been doing everything my caseworker has asked me to do, yet I still have not been able to access affordable childcare, transportation, or obtain my GED. Every month the utility company threatens to shut off my power. I can barely stay afloat.” We need TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) reauthorized this year! Missouri families do not have the luxury to wait!
Pagetool on the web: www.pagetool.org or www.sourceforge.net/projects/pagetool/