The East Missouri Action Agency and the Private Industry Council on Friday received the Community Partnership Awards presented at the Community Caring Council's 11th annual Caring Conference.

The awards, which have been presented annually since 1995, are given to organizations that have partnered with the Caring Council on activities, programs or initiatives or have made contributions of meeting space, staff support or financial donations.

The East Missouri Action Agency houses and works on joint ventures with Caring Communities. It has provided a leadership role and financial support for First Call for Help, a project that was initiated as a cooperative effort of the Caring Council and the United Way. EMAA also partners with the Caring Council on the Proud Parents Program and the Local Assistance Network.

The Private Industry Council and the Caring Council have collaborated on welfare-to-work efforts. As a result of a plan developed with the Caring Council's Work Opportunities Coordinating Committee, state funding has been received to enhance the Jump Start on Jobs Program and to hire an employment coordinator to provide follow-up and support for individuals moving from welfare to work. PIC also manages the Missouri Mentoring Partnership, whose funding came under the Council's umbrella this year. PIC acts as the hiring agent for the Caring Council's administrative assistant position, as well as the new coordinator position for the faith-based mentoring project that will be implemented soon.