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1. NPI Evaluation of The Cara Program
NPI Rating: BUY
Evaluation as of 1/8/11
Analyst: Annie Lee
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2. NPI Rating: BUY
TCP has proven to be effective in helping break the
cycle of poverty and homelessness in the Chicago Area
through its job training and retention services, social
enterprises, community centers and its partnerships
with other organizations. NPI highly recommends
making a monetary donation, volunteering for one of
TCP’s programs, and/or hiring TCP graduates.
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3. The Cara Program: Strengths
▲ Extensive program offerings. Through its many programs, TCP
offers a wealth of resources and continuous support to its
students and graduates, even after a permanent job placement
has been found.
▲ Proven track record since inception. TCP has successfully placed
2,800 individuals affected by homelessness and poverty into full-
time, permanent jobs in the Chicago area with an average of
75% retention rate during first year of employment.
▲ A strong network of sponsors. TCP is supported by many major
donors, including founder Tom Owens’ the Owens Foundation.
▲ Detailed and frequent performance updates. TCP consistently
provides quarterly updates on its overall program performance.
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4. The Cara Program: Cautions
● Unclear data tracking methods. While TCP offers many data
points, the methodology in which the data is derived is yet
unclear. Additionally, there seems to be inconsistency in the way
revenue and expenses were presented in 2009 annual report
versus audited financial report of the same period.
● Limited funding sources. As TCP is operating close to full
capacity (expenses were 94% of revenue in 2009) and a
substantial portion of its funding comes from four donors, TCP
may benefit from diversifying its funding sources.
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5. More Information
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