Connected Community Schools started with a simple idea: make sure students have what they need to show up ready to learn. Today, that idea has grown to 53 connected schools across seven counties. In this episode of The Source: People with Purpose – Inspiring Financial Wellness, Katie sits down with Melissa and Danielle from Connected Community Schools along with Deb from First Source to explore how the organization is helping students and families overcome challenges outside the classroom.

From providing basic necessities and family resources to promoting literacy and financial education, Connected Community Schools works to fill the gaps that can stand in the way of success. The conversation also explores the Connected Bookworms program and the Impact Center in Rome. Melissa shares how that center became an essential community resource just days after opening when a tornado devastated the city.

More than anything, this episode highlights what can happen when schools and community organizations work together. By connecting families with the right resources, the program helps students focus on learning while giving parents a welcoming place to find support.

We Cover:
• How Connected Community Schools grew from one school to 53 across seven counties
• Why challenges outside the classroom can have such a major impact on learning
• How Connected Bookworms is helping entire families build stronger literacy skills
• The incredible story of the Impact Center and its response to the Rome tornado
• How community partnerships are creating new opportunities for students and families

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First Source's Links:
Website - https://www.fsource.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/fsourcefcu
IG - https://www.instagram.com/fsourcefcu
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/fsourcefcu

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Connected Community Schools Links:
Website - https://connectedcommunityschools.org
FB - https://www.facebook.com/ConnectedCommunitySchools
IG - https://www.instagram.com/connected_community_schools

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Love Living Local Links:
Podcast Email - media@lovelivinglocal315.com
Website - https://www.lovelivinglocal315.com
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lovelivinglocal315
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lovelivinglocal315
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