In the 1960s, rising poverty levels threatened our nation’s future. To stem the tide, President Johnson and Congress established the Economic Opportunity Act (EOA) of 1964, a sweeping reform measure that set the stage for a national “War on Poverty.” This ambitious statute aimed to eliminate both the systemic causes and disastrous effects of poverty. The EOA established federal and state Offices of Economic Opportunity, and created new community-based Community Action Agencies. In 1964, our government took its first major step toward eliminating poverty in America. Today, the Mayor's Office of Community
Empowerment and Opportunity (CEO) continues that mission. As the only Community Action Agency serving Philadelphia, and the largest in Pennsylvania,
CEO serves as both a direct service provider and as the parent organization for a number of programs, services, and partnerships. Every day,
CEO strives to help Philadelphians strengthen themselves, their families, and their communities.
Our Vision: Our vision is a diverse, prosperous, and vibrant Philadelphia where all citizens are treated with dignity and respect—a city where the impacts of poverty are acknowledged and action is taken to support those most in need.
Our Mission: Our mission is to provide leadership that strengthens and coordinates the City’s anti-poverty efforts on behalf of its most vulnerable citizens and communities.