Four Circles graduates were honored on Monday night in the Training Center at Green Bay Community Church as they completed the first phase of the 16-week program.

The four graduates will now enter Phase 2 in which they will be matched with an ally volunteer to receive ongoing encouragement and support in battling poverty.

Circles Coordinator Jen Schmohe said there has been a 63% decrease in unemployment among Circles participants, a clear indication the program is working.

“I am gratified,” Jen said. “There’s lots more for us to explore and adopt and take on and change. Now we need to focus on getting more volunteers.”

The goal is to add 40 new Circles volunteers by October and 20 new  participants to the program. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact Jen: