The Salina Post had a chance to talk with Shelly Martin, about what both herself and Rodney Denholm have done with the Circles of the Heartland Program.

They both where chosen together to be our BANK VI Heroes of the Week for their intricate part in Circles of the Heartland. Both Shelly and Rodney were the founders for the Salina chapter of Circles of the Heartland. The program is a transformational approach to families who are living in poverty, Shelly said “Circles helps to change your circumstance.” The organization focuses on the long term goal to get families out of poverty. The program lasts a minimum of 16 weeks, after that is done you can choose to continue in the program where you will be matched with two volunteers in the community who will help you implement what you have learned. These volunteers are middle to upper class citizens and they help to guide those who have taken the program.

It takes about 18 months for an individual or family to feel comfortable with what they have learned and at that point they can go out on their own.

Shelly shared that they see very positive transformations with those who complete the program. They see on average that these individuals or families increase their savings by 200% or more and decrease their debt approximately 800% annually.

Congratulations to Shelly Martin and Rodney Denholm!

Click here to nominate your BANK VI Hero of the Week!