Founded in the 1970s on the belief that “programs don’t save children, relationships do,” Communities In Schools (CIS) has become the nation’s most effective and widely respected community-based organization helping kids succeed in school and prepare for life. CIS of Moore County is part of a National Network. The CIS National Office is located in Alexandria, Virginia (www.cisnet.org) and the CISNC State Office (www.cisnc.org) is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. CISNC serves over 35 counties in North Carolina including CIS Moore County (CISMC). CISMC takes a comprehensive approach in serving all twenty-two Moore County Schools with an array of services and networking.

In 2003, a small team representing Moore County schools, community agencies, and members of the business community began meeting to look at the possibilities for improving student success. A review of best practices from across the country enabled the team to conclude that Communities In Schools was the most effective mechanism to mobilize the community for improving the success of students in need of just a little extra help to succeed.

CIS began its first initiative by helping to create a partnership with IBM for the Mentor Place Program at Robbins Elementary School; this e-mentoring program provides 5th grade students with mentors from IBM in Raleigh, NC. The program has been so successful that it has been replicated in 11 NC counties.  Later, with the support of many local businesses, civic organizations and individuals, CIS was incorporated as a non-profit and expanded to serve all 22 Moore County Schools with an array of services and community resources. Today, over 3500 children, teachers and families are positively impacted through CIS community partnerships.

Communities In Schools (CIS) is the nation’s largest and most effective community-based dropout prevention organization, helping young people stay in school, successfully learn, and prepare for life. CIS connects needed community resources with schools by forming partnerships with human service agencies, businesses, civic groups, faith communities, and individual volunteers to deliver their services at schools where children spend most of their time. CIS also connects children and families to the relationships and resources they need to be successful. The scope of CISMC programming includes career exploration, college access programs, after-school programs, mentoring, health initiatives and community outreach.

CISMC Focus Programs:
o   The COMPASS Mentoring Program
o    The Hospitality & Golf Academy
o    The CIS FirstSchool Gardens
o    The SOAR After-School Program
o    The Stuff the Bus School Supply Drive

Volunteers are needed for all programs and we invite you to join us in ‘Investing’ your time in the success of a child.