CAMP Changes Name To Centerstone, Charts New Path To Fight Poverty

SEATTLE, Sept. 14, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Central Area Motivation Program, or CAMP, has been renamed Centerstone, marking a new direction for the social services agency's 48-year history in Seattle.

"Redefining the organization with a vision of the future while still paying homage to our legacy as a community resource in Seattle was not a task we took lightly," said Dale Morris, Chair of the Board of Directors. "We are thankful for the support and dedication of our Board and staff, as well as many people in the community that engaged with us along this journey, helping to bring us to where we are today as Centerstone."

Centerstone has a long-standing history in the Central Area fighting poverty and advocating for people in need. Last year, the organization helped over 32,000 people through food, housing, and education services. The organization places great emphasis on helping people move out of poverty through empowerment initiatives like their Financial Education program. The community and services offered today are very different than they were when the organization began in 1964. Centerstone's programs and services have grown beyond the Central Area and they now serve people throughout central King County. The families and cultures they serve are more diverse than ever, including African Americans, Asian Americans, Caucasians, and immigrants and refugees from countries such as Ethiopia, Somalia, Vietnam, China, and Russia. The new name Centerstone encompasses their role as a support pillar in the community while embracing their presence in the core of the city of Seattle.

CAMP's name change to Centerstone has stirred up emotion for many in the African American community. "At first, it was very difficult for me to hear about the name change," said Yolanda Mitchell, a Centerstone client. "They have been an important support system for my family and neighbors all of my life. But I understand this will open up new doors for them and help them to stay around for another 50 years."

"We are very supportive of their new name and direction," said Suzanne Sasville, Supervisor at Puget Sound Energy. "I appreciated participating in a public focus group where the community was asked for input. You can tell they wanted to do this the right way. We are proud to be a community partner of Centerstone, which has provided valuable assistance to Puget Sound Energy customers for decades."

About Centerstone: For more than 48 years, Centerstone has provided essential human services to meet the needs of Seattle's low-income residents.  Centerstone is one of Washington's oldest and most respected community organizations, with programs and services helping more than 20,000 people annually.  Centerstone's mission is dedicated to helping people help themselves and each other as they move from poverty to self-sufficiency through programs and advocacy. Centerstone uplifts people in the community to live better lives on their own through basic needs and empowerment programs. For more information, visit www.center-stone.org. 

PR Contact: Melanie Morris
722 18^th Avenue
Seattle, WA 98122
(425) 949-8309
[email protected]

SOURCE Centerstone