Tripartite boards of public Community Action Agencies (CAAs) face unique challenges in overseeing programs funded by the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) and other sources. While their relationship with local government provides lines of communication to individuals with authority and influence in the community, the boards’ powers are subject to what the local government has delegated to them. These dynamics can create some very confusing and often frustrating situations. This FAQ is intended to help address some of the most frequently asked questions about a tripartite board’s role and responsibilities that we receive from public CAAs.
From Community to Boardroom: FAQ on Democratic Selection and the Low-Income Sector
Low-income individuals in the community have an important voice in the administration of poverty alleviating programs. The federal Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Act recognizes this and requires each Community Action Agency (CAA) to have a tripartite board of...

