Community-Led. Relationship-Driven.
Building Community to End Poverty
About Us
Circles Salt Lake is an initiative of the nonprofit organization Poverty Reduction Services. Circles® is a poverty reduction initiative designed to help people achieve upward mobility and self-sufficiency. Founded in 2017 and based out of Salt Lake County.
The Circles model surrounds each Circle Leader with a strong, supportive community. At the center is the Circle Leader — someone working to achieve long-term stability for themselves and their family. Around them is a circle of support made up of 2–3 volunteer Allies, resource teams, and the broader community.
Before launching into their goals, Circle Leaders complete a 12-week training focused on the realities of poverty and the tools to overcome it. Topics include the trauma of poverty, financial literacy, SMART goal-setting, workplace communication, conflict resolution, and relationship-building.
The Circles Model
Our model, materials, and coaching help you bridge that gap by engaging community volunteers to come alongside individuals until they overcome poverty permanently.
Who are Circles Leaders?
Circle Leaders are individuals and families working to break the cycle of poverty and build a better future. They bring strength, wisdom, and lived experience to the center of our community. At Circles, they lead their own journey — setting goals, building skills, and creating lasting change for themselves and future generations.
Become a Leader
Who are Allies?
Allies are volunteers who walk alongside Circle Leaders in friendship and solidarity. They offer encouragement, expand networks, and help break down systemic barriers — not by “fixing,” but by listening, learning, and showing up. Together, Allies and Circle Leaders form relationships rooted in trust, respect, and mutual growth.
Become an Ally
What are the Resource Teams?
Groups of diverse volunteers who contribute vital assistance, fresh ideas and vision to the Circles initiative.
How is the community involved?
The community participates in many ways including meal donations, providing service, volunteering for our children’s program, and sharing local resources that support a Circle Leader.
Donate a Meal
Our Mission
Building community to end poverty through intentional friendships, personal transformation, and systemic change led by the people closest to the challenge.
Our Values
We strongly believe poverty and prosperity are shared responsibilities—held by individuals, communities, and institutions alike. Circles Salt Lake is nonpartisan, not faith-based, and welcomes everyone.
Our Network
Circles Salt Lake is one chapter of over 70 across the nation and parts of Canada. The Circles network is led by Circles® USA, which is the result of more than 25 years of research.
