September 16th – A sold-out group of golfers helped raise $31,000 for The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) at the annual ROC Classic Golf Tournament, held at the East Aurora Country Club.  Thanks to the generosity of the golfers and the tournament’s sponsors, The ROC is able to dedicate the funds raised to supporting its mission […]

The Rural Outreach Center is proud to announce our collaboration with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Early Detection Driven to You (EDDY) lung cancer screening mobile unit. EDDY was at the ROC this past week from July 9th-11th screening for lung cancer. The Roswell Team, Patient Navigator Jessica Leone, Desire Dienstbier CT Technologist, Tara Polilla […]

Looking for a new job opportunity? The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is hiring for two full-time positions and one contract position. Our team of dedicated licensed mental health professionals supports the ROC’s mission to eradicate rural poverty in our region. By joining our team, you will become part of an agency that provides counseling and […]

The Rural Outreach Center is seeking an independent contractor to provide psychiatric and mental health services! Reports to: Director of Counseling Services and COO. Qualifications: Nurse practitioner Masters in psychiatry. Must have sensitivity to the needs and concerns of the rural poor and issues of poverty. Ability to work independently and cooperatively with ROC counseling […]

The Rural Outreach Center is running our Dream Big! Summer Experience again this summer for our ROC children – an amazing opportunity for them to play, learn, and grow! We are looking for dedicated staff and volunteers who can help make this summer one to remember for our kids. Read on to learn more about […]

The Rural Outreach Center, a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of rural poverty insouthern Western New York, has been awarded a grant by the Garman Family Foundationadministered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. The ROC is happy to share that this grant will support its Kids ROC programs, which includementoring, tutoring, and enrichment […]

Learn more about the current barriers to rural health research. This article features the ROC’s executive director Dr. Frank Cerny.

“My favorite part of summer is getting to play with all the other kids!” – Jessica*  Jessica is one of thirty ROC kids who spent last summer participating in the Dream Big! summer Experience.  For five weeks, Jessica and her friends enjoyed making things, conducting science experiments, navigating relay races and obstacle courses, and they […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services throughout the rural areas of southern Western New York, has been named a Project Play Champion by the prestigious Aspen Institute for 2022.  The ROC is thrilled that their innovative programs for children have been recognized by The Aspen Institute. […]

Sarah’s Pantry is a non-food item pantry that provides items not covered by SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) – such as shampoo, laundry detergent, and toilet paper.  It is run by a group of dedicated volunteers from Pathways Christian Fellowship.   The concept of Sarah’s Pantry grew out of a Pathways’ Women’s retreat in 2008. It started […]

The Rural Outreach Center announced that Monique Albee Brannon has been promoted to Chief Operations Officer, effective immediately. Brannon has served as ROC’s director of development since 2019 and previously served the Greater Buffalo community in various leadership and development capacities for over 15 years. “Monique is a leader that has brought her strong work […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora recently received a $200,000 grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.  With this grant, the ROC will provide evidence-based programming to children and offer support to families to ensure that transportation and other barriers do not hinder access to care. Further, this funding supports the ROC as […]

What do slime, pool noodles, and games of hide-and-seek have in common?  Believe it or not, they are all important components of play therapy here at the ROC!  What may look like fun and games to most of us is actually how the kids who come to the ROC are learning to process their thoughts […]

When Jenna*, a young mom with two kids, came to the ROC, she was struggling to make ends meet. She had just left an abusive relationship and needed help finding new housing. Her children needed school supplies and clothing. She felt frustrated, stuck, and hopeless.  Jenna is one of the many people who come to […]

“Why do I like volunteering and tutoring at the ROC? I love tutoring because it allows me to assist and empower young children and their learning abilities! I also really enjoy being a cheerleader and supporter for these kids and by being a tutor I get to celebrate accomplishments and milestones with these kids and […]

The Bills Mafia is at it again and showing how much they love the Bills and the Western New YorkCommunity. Reminiscent of the hundreds of thousands of dollars the Bills Mafia faithful raised for The Patricia Allen Fund, theMafia is now asking for donations of $8.90 to be made to the Rural Outreach Center in […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located south of East Aurora, has received a generous grantof $50,000 from the Buffalo Bills Foundation to support the Scott R. Bieler Foundation RuralOutreach Center and name the Buffalo Bills Foundation Kitchen and Buffalo Bills Nutrition ROCSprogram. The Buffalo Bills Foundation is focused on addressing child hunger, increasing access tonutritious […]

The ROC is looking for several dedicated volunteers to join our Special Events Committee! With 2 exciting events coming in the next few months (our golf tournament and our annual ROCtober event), we are looking for volunteers to join the Special Events Committee to help plan and run these upcoming special events. The ROC is […]

Today, the ROC was thrilled to invite many of our supporters and donors to celebrate as we broke ground on our new building. The Scott R. Bieler Foundation Rural Outreach Center will be a place of hope and healing for those served by the ROC. We are so thankful for the amazing support that the […]

The Rural Outreach Center is holding a summer program for children served at the ROC. We are looking to hire motivated individuals to help run the program and provide a fantastic summer for our kids. If you are interested, read more about the open positions below and fill out your application here by June 1st! […]

Welcome to ROC Resources!  The ROC is committed to providing support to our community through sharing local resources and opportunities. With tax season in full swing, we are sharing some of the resources we often direct Participants to use.  There are lots of great free options to file your taxes online! 1. Free File You […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora, a nonprofit organization focused on breaking the cycle of rural poverty by accompanying people to self-sufficiency, recently received a $334,025 grant from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation. With this grant, the ROC will enhance data collection, expand its model of care and further develop the model of […]

Welcome to ROC Resources!  The ROC is committed to providing support to our community through sharing local resources and opportunities. Stay up-to-date on rental information and discover other resources for renters below:   1. New York State COVID & Renting Resources This helpful resource page has information on changes in the eviction process and rental […]

To the Editor:   Some members of our community have expressed concern about the rezoning request, already approved by the Town of Aurora Planning Board and now under consideration by the Town Board, that would allow the Rural Outreach Center to build a new facility to better serve our rural families. We understand these apprehensions, […]

Welcome to ROC Resources!  The ROC is committed to providing support to our community through sharing local resources and opportunities. 1. NY Connects Find resources on every topic imaginable at NY Connects, a portal that will connect you with local and state resources that can assist with any number of concerns.  Visit the portal by […]

To apply, email cover letter and resume to Frank Cerny at [email protected]

The Rural Outreach Center is looking for a full-time Finance Officer.

Enjoy some extra Christmas cheer with this light show designed by Michael and Ashlee Bojanowski! Michael and Ashlee created this amazing light show – and are asking viewers to donate to the ROC. We are so excited to have such amazing neighbors in our community.

The American dream … the freedom to attain prosperity and success. What a noble aspiration. When some seem to be unable to attain our definition of prosperity and success, we often comment that they should simply “pull themselves up by the bootstraps.” First of all, grab the shoes on your feet and try to pull […]

Written by Rick Ohler. This article was reposted with permission. To view the original article, visit the East Aurora Advertiser. They were a study in enthusiastic participation when I arrived—20 kids, ages five to 13, split into four groups, under properly distanced pop-up tents, each group sporting a different color T-shirt. I would soon learn […]

ROC’s Summer Enrichment Program Week 1 – Dream Big!  At about 8:50 a.m. on Monday, July 13, the first cars began to pull into the parking lot of the ROC. Each of the Summer Enrichment Program staff members waited excitedly to meet the kids they would get to spend the next few weeks with. Our staff […]

Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC) https://theroc.co Organization Description:Social/Community Outreach   Job Title: Finance Manager/Office Manager/Administrative Assistant  Hours: Full-time  Salary:Based on qualifications and level of experience  Location: East Aurora  Primary Responsibility: Maintaining the organization’s financial records, as well as developing  and managing all aspects of ROC’s front office and physical sites. Qualifications: Minimum Associate’s degree in business with a concentration in Accounting/Finance.   Bachelor’s degree and 2 years’ experience, including financial oversight, ideal.  Knowledge of and experience with Quickbooks a must. Experience with medical billing and claims.  Ability to be structured, yet flexible a must.  A passion for non-profit, mission-driven work a necessity.  Strong administrative capacity, including management, organizational, communication and  interpersonal skills. Sensitivity to the needs and concerns of the rural poor and issues of poverty.  Ability to work independently and cooperatively with Executive Director, Staff, Board members,  Rural Outreach Center (ROC) Participants, and Consultants.  Supervisor: Executive Director and Operating Officer  Duties: Monitoring payables, receivables, payroll, general ledger, budgeting, grant distribution  and preparing reports for the Board of Directors.  Working with Accountant on audit and making  sure general accounting rules are followed. Oversee the operation of ROC office area, including  monitoring of telephone calls, visitors, and volunteers.  If interested: for more information go to https://theroc.co . Send cover letter and resume, with a list of references to [email protected]

Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC) Organization Description: Social/Community Outreach Organization Website: www.theroc.co Job Title: Social Worker  Hours: FT with some flexibility in hours; may require some evening and weekend hours. Salary: Based on level of experience Location: East Aurora, Southern Erie County, Cattaraugus County  Type: Full time with experience preferred Preferred Education: MSW preferred […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services throughout the rural areas of southern Western New York, will receive a three-year grant of $395,400 from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation to fund the organization’s play programming initiatives. “The Rural Outreach Center utilizes play programming to address issues […]

Rural Outreach Center’s Summer Enrichment Program – working to reduce the digital divide for rural children. Dear friends, Over the past several months of social isolation, we have observed that many of the children at the ROC have regressed in their social/emotional health and fallen behind in their academic progress because they don’t have access to […]

Martin Luther King Junior said, “Injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere.” As an organization focused on disparities and injustices in our rural areas, we must never forget that this is part of the greater world of injustice. We are, therefore, compelled to offer a statement related to the current movement to address injustices affecting those of […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora has received a $1,000 mini-grant from CVS Health, administered by United Way of New York State, supporting its response to the COVID-19 outbreak. The grant is part of more than $1 million CVS Health and its foundations have given to address food insecurity and other community needs […]

I have been accused of spending all my time looking ahead – at the journey ahead – and not enough time looking backward. So here goes. The past several years at the ROC has been a time of tremendous, sometimes breathtaking, growth. We identified a need, based on input from the population we wanted to […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization serving the rural areas of southern Western New York, will hold a drive-through community event from 12 to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 2, at their facility at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora. The Good for the Neighborhood pop-up event will feature free giveaways and a chance […]

I had a friend with whom I would regularly debate the question as to whether humans are basically good or bad. This, of course, is a question debated over the centuries by philosophers and theologians alike. I have always come down clearly on the “good” side. My position, that people are inherently good, is being […]

KEY TO HELPING IS SAFETY AND FLEXIBILITY Keeping safe today requires flexibility. Social work staff at the ROC is well versed in flexibility, and are adjusting therapy services at the ROC to meet the needs of our participants during this difficult time. Families everywhere are dealing with increased stressors related to money, schooling, and anxiety related […]

Responding to the COVID-19 Crisis We at The Rural Outreach Center, serving S. Erie, W. Wyoming and N. Cattaraugus counties, would like to share the action we have taken to support our community in the face of COVID-19 challenges. Our goal is to ensure that those in need during this crisis have access to resources that will […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora is seeking a licensed social worker (LMSW) or mental health counselor (MHC) with a clinical focus to fill a per diem position. This person is needed two to three evenings a week from 3 to 7 p.m., with some flexibility.  The ROC offers general counseling, mental health […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is again offering Code Blue shelter services for southern Erie County. Code Blue is a state-mandated program that requires every county to offer nighttime shelter for homeless persons when the wind chill temperature drops below 32 degrees. There are two shelters in Buffalo, Harbor House at 241 Genesee St. and […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services for those living in Western New York’s rural communities, is currently looking to fill two part-time positions — a site worker and driver — for its Code Blue program. As a Code Blue site for southern Erie County, the ROC’s […]

Please Join Us at ROCtober!Have some fun and support the important work of the ROC! And while you are at it … don’t forget to buy raffle tickets for two FABULOUS electric bikes! Buy ROCtober and Raffle Tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/roctober-tickets-72389313385?aff=ebdssbeac&utm_source=ROC+master+list&utm_campaign=8416210e37-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_09_30_02_39&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_07deecb82b-8416210e37-175522669

Those who live with diabetes know it is a challenging condition that must be monitored closely. This includes bloodwork, medications, making daily choices about foods that are eaten, exercise routine, fluid intake and planning ahead to maintain good health. The public is invited to come and join other individuals who want to learn more about […]

Each holiday season, the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora collaborates with generous community partners to provide Christmas presents and gift certificates to families engaged with ROC services.   For many families, the holidays can be an extra financial burden rather than a time to celebrate.  The ROC’s Christmas program is a great way […]

Economic Development Corps (EDC) AmeriCorps are placed in nonprofit and educational institutions across the Buffalo-Niagara Region and provide financial literacy and tutoring services to their host site and clients. Participation in the EDC program provides members the opportunity to develop valuable skills and experiences and positions them for success in future employment and community service. […]

Each year, the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora provides school supplies to local students through its Back Pack Program. This year’s invitation-only event, for active ROC families, will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, at the Boys and Girls Club of East Aurora, 24 Paine St. Students invited to […]

Need to update your resume or want to improve your interviewing skills? Make yourself and your resume stand out to potential employers by stopping by the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora on Monday, Aug. 12. A nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services for those living in Western New York’s rural […]

Every July 4th while you are sitting in your sister’s or brother’s backyard, on your lawn chairs, eating your first hot dog of the season, and later oohing and ahhhing over the colorful bursts of stars in the sky, we often forget what we are really celebrating.   Independence.   Everyone wants it. It’s what your support of the ROC is […]

Please check out this important video on rural access to mental health services, courtesy of WBFO’s Mental Health Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FzEn_9J2L0&feature=youtu.be

Good news! We have been selected to receive technical assistance to help expand economic opportunities in our rural areas. We are among two other New York State organizations that were awarded these grants. As part of the Rural Community Assistance Partnership, we have been assigned to Community Roots (www.community-roots.com), a Vermont-based consulting organization. Led by […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), serving the rural areas of southern Western New York, was honored to be selected by the Aspen Institute to participate in a national program to examine successful organizations utilizing a 2-Generational approach to reducing poverty. The Aspen Institute, based in Washington, D.C., is a national center for values-based leadership and […]

Most of the time when we think about single parents, we think about mothers and their children. The ROC has many of those. But we also have some single dads who are heroes to their children and to the staff at the ROC.  Take Sam, for instance. He’s raising five girls all on his own and holding […]

Mork: On Earth, a mother does all sorts of other nice things for her children for her entire life. Oh, it’s a warm and wonderful thing.Orson: How much does she get paid?Mork: Nothing.Orson: Is it because her work is considered of no real value?Mork: No, because it’s considered priceless.                        — Mork and Mindy, “A Mommy for Morky” […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) seeks volunteers to join the organization in empowering those experiencing rural poverty. Volunteers play a vital role in providing support to those affected by the unique circumstances of poverty in socially isolated areas.  Please come learn more about the ROC and the experience of volunteering from 7 to 8 p.m. […]

Those who live with diabetes know it is a challenging condition that must be monitored closely. This includes bloodwork, medications, making daily choices about foods that are eaten, exercise routine, fluid intake and planning ahead to maintain good health. The public is invited to come and join other individuals who want to learn more about […]

Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC) Organization Description: Social/Community Outreach Organization Website: www.theroc.co Job Title: Social Worker/Case Manager Hours: 40 hours per week with some evenings  Salary: Based on level of experience Location: East Aurora/southern Erie County, Cattaraugus County  Type: Full-time Preferred Education: BSW with some experience. MSW with interest in case management. Benefits: Health […]

“Things had to change. Nothing I had done in the past helped me to change. I’d been doing the same stuff for 10 years. I was literally homeless and had no other choice, so I called ROC’s Code Blue program. I stayed at the ROC every day and the staff kept talking to me, even though some […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting, empowering and elevating the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas, has named Sarah H. Smith, PhD, director of programs. A native of rural Western New York, Dr. Smith approaches her work through the lens of an applied […]

Have you ever wondered what your commitment to the ROC supports? Well, wonder no longer!  Within a two-hour period one morning last week:  A dad, Ray, and son, Tom, came in because their wife/mom had left and stolen everything. She had taken all their money, birth certificates, photographs … everything.  Tom, a little preschooler, asked Sue at the front desk, “Can […]

Have some free time? Help someone change their life and achieve their goals by joining the Rural Outreach Centers’s Social Work Assistance Team (SWAT)! An informational meeting will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 12, at the ROC, 730 Olean Road, East Aurora. The Rural Outreach Center is a nonprofit organization offering […]

Can you give 30 minutes a week to change a child’s future?  The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora is in search of dedicated volunteers to assist with their School Readiness Program. A volunteer training session has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 26, at the ROC, located at 730 Olean Road. “Throughout […]

Larry Bierl tragically froze to death in Amherst recently. It could just have easily happened in rural Western New York. Coverage of Larry’s death, and the related issue of how those experiencing homelessness were dealing with the extreme cold, included repeated media announcements of Code Blue sites, focused solely on urban conditions and opportunities.  This […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services for those living in Western New York’s rural communities, will host two upcoming workshops titled Navigating the Department of Social Services and Know Your Housing Rights. The workshops will take place at the ROC, located at 730 Olean Road, East […]

Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC), https://theroc.co  Organization Description:Social/Community Outreach   Job Title: Director of Programs Hours: Part-time (.75 FTE), some evening hours and flexibility in hours Salary:Based on level of experience Location: East Aurora/southern Western New York Primary Responsibility: Develop and deliver programming to ROC Participants, consistent with mission. Qualifications: College degree, with experience […]

This success story is all because of you! Carl had been doing quite well.  He had a small, profitable home remodeling business.  He was happily married with a child and owned his own home.  But then his wife left him and he couldn’t cope with his grief. Carl suddenly became a single parent. His young son, Caleb, […]

As a couple, supporting the ROC is one of the more selfish things that we do. Walking up the steps to the ROC, we always have smiles on our faces … It feels good to know we are changing someone’s life. As we pass from the lobby to the meeting room, we observe the teamwork, […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora that helps the rural poor transition to self-sufficiency through a variety of programs, was recently awarded a $2,000 grant by the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation.  The funding is provided for services related to meeting the basic human needs of […]

“What do we live for if not to make life less difficult for each other?” — George Eliot During this holiday season we are warmed by the love of family and friends and the feeling of gratitude for all we have. At the ROC it is the perfect time to reflect on the extraordinary generosity […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization based in East Aurora that helps the rural poor transition to self-sufficiency through a variety of programs, was recently awarded a $10,000 grant from the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York. The Health Foundation is an independent private foundation that advocates for continuous improvement in […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora has been designated as a Code Blue site for southern Erie County. From December 2018 through March 2019, the facility will be open to individuals without safe shelter any time the temperature, including wind chill, falls below 32 degrees. The ROC’s Code Blue […]

Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC) Organization Description: Social/Community Outreach Organization Web site: https://theroc.co   Job Title: Staff Social Worker  Hours: Full-time, including 2 to 3 evenings a week Salary (or salary range): Based on level of experience Location: East Aurora/southern Erie County, Cattaraugus County  Preferred Education: LMSW with focus on clinical work Benefits: Health stipend Job […]

Accountability. It’s part of the ROC’s DNA. Helping our Participants hold themselves accountable. Holding ourselves accountable. In my work at Independent Health as Director of Membership Operations, accountability is essential. The ROC’s model of accountability is one of the big reasons I agreed to become a board member and devote my time to them. The […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), an East Aurora-based nonprofit agency known for guiding participants on a path toward self-sufficiency through a number of specialized programs, has added a unique new musical program to its mix. The program has become so successful in such a short period of time that additional sponsors are now needed to […]

All of us have had a special child tug at our heart. We want the best for them. We want them to have a wonderful life. We want to see them succeed. And so it is with every child we see at the ROC. They are all so very special in their own way. 100% of […]

I am so excited to update you on ROC’s new program that we’ve developed with your support!   This program is very innovative and effective. It’s exactly why I’m so committed to the Rural Outreach Center. ROC U is the new umbrella program that coordinates the assistance your support provides to Participants who are working hard to achieve self-sufficiency. […]

Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC) Job Title: Intake and case manager  Hours: Full-time Salary: Based on level of experience Location: East Aurora/Southern Erie County, Cattaraugus County  Type: Full-time, experience preferred Preferred Education: Bachelor’s degree minimum Benefits: Health care stipend Job Description: The ROC’s model of care is distinguished to help individuals and families work toward […]

Remember how special it felt to begin a new school year — a fresh start, new clothes and shoes, maybe a new haircut, too. And then there were all the new school supplies — ripping open the packaging and arranging them neatly in your new backpack for the first day of school. For our ROC […]

Job Description Organization Name: Rural Outreach Center (ROC) Organization Description: Social/Community Outreach Website: https://theroc.co  Job Title: Social Worker  Hours: Flexible, full-time, some evening hours and some flexibility in hours Salary: Based on level of experience Location: East Aurora/southern Erie County, Cattaraugus County  Preferred Education: BSW with experience or MSW Benefits: Health insurance stipend Job Description: The […]

Marco. Polo! Tag, you’re it! Remember when you were a kid and couldn’t wait until school let out for summer vacation? Jumping in a pool to play the Marco Polo game or playing t-ball or soccer in the sun? Those lazy hazy days of going to get an ice cream cone after a long day […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), an East Aurora-based nonprofit agency that directs participants on a path toward self-sufficiency through a number of specialized programs, has received a $20,000 grant from the Garman Family Foundation administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. The grant will fund Play Therapy & More, a program that supports children […]

You wished on a star! And this month your wish came true.  Do you know your gifts helped start a new children’s program at ROC? THANK YOU! Your support made Kids’ Ticket to ROC possible. Kids’ Ticket to ROC provides support so children can go to extracurricular activities like dance, karate, riding lessons and lacrosse, among others, […]

As part of their newly-established speaker series, the Four Honey Bees Cottage will feature author and journalist Christina Abt on Thursday, May 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. Abt’s presentation, which is free and open to the public, will cover all aspects of writing, from journaling and family memoirs to magazine, newspaper and PR writing, […]

Sometimes the ripples turn into tsunamis — read below! Please take a moment to adjust your own cap and gown, because due to your generosity one member of the ROC family has just graduated from college. THANK YOU! Your support of ROC made it all possible, so let’s take a moment to celebrate. Darryl first […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization in East Aurora that is changing the lives of those living in rural poverty every day, is partnering with Serve New York and AmeriCorps VISTA to hire a full-time VISTA member. The VISTA member will be focused on helping the ROC launch a pilot employment training program. […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, will host a free Navigating Social Services seminar and question-and-answer period from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 22. Guest speaker at the event will be Minnie James from the Erie County Department of Social Services’ SNAP Department. Topics to be discussed […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora and the South Wales Community Center have joined forces to offer a new rural Code Blue site beginning on Monday, Feb. 19 and extending through Saturday, March 31, 2018. The Code Blue site will be located in the South Wales Community Center at 6387 Olean Road. On […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), an East Aurora-based nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services for those living in Western New York’s rural communities, is currently looking to fill two open positions. Position: Administrator/Financial Focus Qualifications: Excellent communication skills, problem-solving abilities and computer skills.  Grant management experience, bookkeeping and human resource experience necessary.  […]

Those living with diabetes know it is a challenging condition that must be monitored closely. This includes blood work, medications, food choices, exercise routines, fluid intake and planning ahead to maintain good health. Come and join a group of people who want to learn more about diabetes by participating in five free sessions offered at […]

Imagine having less than $7 a day to spend on food, living in a house that only heated to 60 degrees, not having reliable transportation or not owning appropriate winter clothing. For more than 200,000 Western New Yorkers, this is their daily routine. And for the second consecutive winter, a local nonprofit organization is preparing […]

ROC Executive Director Frank Cerny recently joined other community nonprofit leaders at the Bank of America Buffalo Community Partner Breakfast. We’re proud to have been awarded a grant from Bank of America. Through their support, we’re expanding economic opportunities and solutions for those most in need.  

Frank Cerny, executive director of the Rural Outreach Center in East Aurora, will be among several speakers taking part in a Poverty Forum from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, Dec. 15, in Room 403 of Hayes Hall on the UB South Campus. The event will be presented by the Erie County Poverty Committee. The purpose […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting, empowering and elevating the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas, received a SOPHi Award for Community Impact on Oct. 13 from the Population Health Collaborative. The awards ceremony was held at Buffalo RiverWorks. The Spotlight on Population […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting rural poverty, will host its fourth annual “ROCtober” event from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15, at Elm Street Bakery, 72 Elm St., East Aurora. The event will feature food by Elm Street Bakery, wine provided by Reed’s Wines and Liquors, beer, music […]

Those who live with diabetes know it is a challenging condition and must be monitored closely. This includes blood work, medications, making daily choices about the foods that are eaten, exercise routine, fluid intake and planning ahead to maintain good health. The public is invited to come and join other individuals who want to learn […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, is looking for a part-time case manager/social worker to join its team. The ROC’s model of care is designed to help individuals and families work toward self-sufficiency. The person hired in this role will be responsible for the intake of new participants, […]

    The Kiwanis Club of East Aurora has completed construction of a multi-purpose classroom addition at the Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean in East Aurora. The new facility will enable the ROC to provide programs — including healthy living, financial literacy, self-care and other classes — to help people living in […]

Each year, the Rural Outreach Center provides school supplies to local students through its Back Pack Program … and this year was no exception. Have a great school year!  

East Aurora’s Rural Outreach Center, a nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services for those living in Western New York’s rural communities, is introducing a unique nutrition program that is bringing families back to the dinner table. “Nutrition ROCs is a brand new program that, originally, was going to be offered only to […]

The Rural Outreach Center in East Aurora was the recent recipient of a $1,000 grant from the Junior League of Buffalo for its upgraded “Nutrition ROCs” program. Founded in 1919, the Junior League of Buffalo is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the […]

East Aurora’s Rural Outreach Center (ROC), a nonprofit organization offering a wide variety of social services for those living in Western New York’s rural communities, recently received $12,500 from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds at Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo. The grant will fund two new initiatives. The first program to be funded, […]

The City of Buffalo is seeing a resurgence that many of us never thought we would see in our lifetime. New buildings are going up and businesses that never gave Buffalo serious thought are now lining up to purchase commercial space for immediate and future development, all of which is tremendous news for the city […]

We’re wearing shorts, breaking out our sunglasses, and kids are starting to dream about vacation.  It must be getting close to the end of the school year!  While you and your family are planning lazy summer days, picnics, and exploring new places, we here at ROC are already thinking about the upcoming school year.  Why? […]

Look at what you’ve done this year!  Imagine what we can do next year… A ROC Success Before Kelsey walked into ROC, her life had hit its lowest point. She and her husband were unemployed and living day-to-day. They didn’t have the basics we all take for granted — important things such as food and comfortable […]

Did you know that April is National Volunteer Month?  ROC wouldn’t be possible without the hard work of our many volunteers.  We have about 150 volunteers!  They do everything from reading to kids to preparing Snack Packs to running the New Paths Redistribution Center – and so much more!     This month, ROC is […]

Located in East Aurora, the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) provides numerous programs that help people help themselves. These programs include support groups for adults, children’s initiatives such as the successful snack pack and school reading readiness programs, and much more. “Our outreach is expanding every day to enable us to meet the needs of more […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) recently received a $2,750 donation from United Capital, a national wealth management firm with an office in Western New York.  Through United Capital’s national “Help4Hearts” program, local offices generate $250 to donate toward a charity of their choice for every client referral they receive and meet with. The program is designed […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), an East Aurora-based nonprofit organization dedicated to ending rural poverty in southern Erie County and surrounding areas and assisting, empowering and elevating individuals to self-sufficiency, is seeking a part-time social worker to join its dedicated staff. The ROC offers general counseling, mental health and substance abuse counseling, play therapy, multiple […]

The Rural Outreach Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting, empowering and elevating the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas, has appointed East Aurora resident Susan Giovino to the position of program director. Giovino has 10 years of experience in the advertising industry and has worked as a culinary tour guide […]

East Aurora’s Rural Outreach Center will celebrate national Single Parents’ Day on Saturday, March 18, will a special event from 10 a.m. to noon at the ROC, 730 Olean Road East Aurora. This “get-to-know-you” event at the ROC will celebrate the hard work single parents do every day. Open to single parents and their families, […]

Did you know that falls are one of the most preventable causes of injury for older adults? In fact, one out of three adults will fall this year but only half of these individuals will mention it to their doctor. And, falling once greatly increases the risk of falling again. This will be the topic […]

Watch our new PSA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYyzzoN_iF0 A special thank you to Noah Cosimano-White and McCandless Marketing and Media for their hard work and support. *** Kelly is a young mom dedicated to giving her family a better life.  She works 4 jobs and has partnered with the ROC to provide her family with the tools they […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), an East Aurora-based nonprofit organization dedicated to ending rural poverty in southern Erie County and surrounding areas and assisting, empowering and elevating individuals to self-sufficiency, assisted numerous local families throughout the holiday season. “The Rural Outreach Center invited 51 families and over 90 children to receive donated gifts for Christmas,” […]

Did you catch our segment on WNY Living on Dec. 26? If not, here’s the link: http://www.wgrz.com/entertainment/television/programs/wny-living/december-26-the-rural-outreach-center-/377643167  

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, has an immediate opening for a part-time Program & Volunteer Coordinator. The position will require approximately 25 to 30 hours per week and will report to the organization’s executive director. The person in this position will expand the program capacity of the […]

Rural Outreach Center to launch ‘ROC Resolutions’ community challenge in January Imagine having only $6.36 a day to spend on food, living in a house that only heated up to 60 degrees, not having reliable transportation, or not owning a winter coat or boots. For more than 200,000 Western New Yorkers, this is daily life.  […]

Erie County Legislator Joseph C. Lorigo announced that the Legislature has supported his request to allocate $7,000 for the Rural Outreach Center in the 2017 Erie County budget. The Legislature approved the request at their annual budget meeting to support the center’s efforts to combat rural poverty and help residents through various services.  “I thought […]

BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York and the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) are teaming up to offer free informational sessions on Medicaid and Child Health Plus, which are now being offered on the New York State of Health. These enrollment-assistance sessions will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesdays, until further notice, at the […]

McDonald’s franchise owner Joe Ferrino, left, recently presented a check for $3,500 on behalf of Ronald McDonald House Charities of WNY to Frank Cerny, executive director of the Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora. The funds will support the ROC’s outreach to and support of children, including the play therapy, winter readiness and back-to-school […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting, empowering and elevating the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas, has made several new appointments to its board of directors. Vicki Feine of East Aurora has been named the ROC’s board chair. […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) in East Aurora hopes to spread some holiday spirit this Christmas season by asking local individuals, families, businesses and organizations to “adopt” a deserving family and help make their holidays a little brighter. “This Christmas season we anticipate assisting 12 to 15 families who are actively pursuing their goals toward […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is pleased to announced that it has been awarded a $3,500 grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of WNY, Inc. to enhance the organization’s “Especially for Kids” program. The grant will be used to purchase therapy supplies, backpacks, school supplies and winter coat gift certificates. Located at 730 Olean Road […]

New and gently used coats, boots, scarves, gloves and mittens, and new socks and hats, are now being collected by the Rural Outreach Center (ROC). Located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, the mission of the ROC is to assist, empower and elevate the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas. […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is turning to the community for assistance this holiday season as they seek to make Thanksgiving a much happier time for individuals and families living in poverty in rural Erie County and beyond. The nonprofit organization is now accepting gift cards in any denomination from grocery stores such as Tops […]

A woman I’ll call Ann came to the ROC for help a little over four years ago. Like many of our participants, Ann was unemployed, trying to do her best for her family but had run out of resources. The ROC connected her with services to meet her family’s immediate needs. For four years, we worked […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is excited to offer East Aurora preschools a chance to experience the benefits of EPIC parenting workshop. All classes will take place from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. At Nativity Preschool, 970 Main St.: • Oct. 12, Helping your child to cope (infants and toddlers workshop) • Oct. 19, Establishing routine […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC) is inviting individuals who have diabetes, and their caregivers, to learn more about this medical condition through discussion and activity. During five sessions beginning Oct. 4 and running through Nov. 1, conversations and activities will focus on diet, exercise and medication, all of which impact this condition. Additionally, handouts will […]

Special Issue of ROC Ripples     Fundraiser!   We’ll be sharing with you some of our work in the next newsletter but wanted to send you a special greeting to let you know about our upcoming fundraiser at the Elm Street Bakery. All tickets are available at the Bakery, 72 Elm Street in East Aurora. We also […]

The ROC held a very successful Back-to-School Party on Aug. 29 at the Boys and Girls Club of East Aurora. The fifth annual event was attended by 150 children from East Aurora, Holland and surrounding communities. Students invited to the party received a brand new backpack filled with the most needed school supplies, free hair […]

Every Step Along the Way… “Mark” is a kind, hard working young man. He didn’t have a car or access to public transportation, but he did have a job. So, Mark walked five miles each way to work everyday, no matter the weather. When Mark came to us, we knew he needed financial skills, not […]

A wide variety of helpful services for U.S. military veterans and their spouses are now being offered by the Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean Road, East Aurora. The outreach program is administered by the Veterans One-stop Center of Western New York. “The Veterans One-stop professionals are exceptional at navigating a complex system […]

Pathways Christian Fellowship is moving from the South Wales Community Center to the East Aurora Christian Church at 464 Main St. Pathways, led by Pastor Dr. Frank Cerny, MDiv, PhD, will be renting space to hold their Sunday service at 10:15 a.m. The Fellowship is celebrating 10 years of worship and service to the community […]

Frank J. Cerny, MDiv., Ph.D., board chairman of the Rural Outreach Center (ROC), was honored Thursday evening as the recipient of the UB Alumni Association’s Leadership Award. A reception was held in the UB Center for the Arts on the university’s North Campus. Located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, the mission of the Rural Outreach […]

One day my phone rang and it was a woman from the Rural Outreach Center. She was calling about a reading program they were offering. My children were grown and I thought she was probably calling for one of my adult daughters. After we chatted for a few minutes she explained to me what the […]

The Rural Outreach Center (ROC), located at 730 Olean Road in East Aurora, served over 550 individuals in 2015, according to the nonprofit organization’s recently released annual report. “Our mission is to assist, empower and elevate the impoverished rural population in southern Erie County and surrounding areas,” said Pastor Frank Cerny, ROC board chairman. “We […]

Please check out the feature that Time Warner Cable News Buffalo did on the ROC on March 4: http://www.twcnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2016/02/29/rural-outreach-center-east-aurora.html An East Aurora organization catering to individuals suffering from poverty in rural communities is celebrating a year of service in Western New York. Time Warner Cable News reporter Rebecca Vogt sat down with leaders at the […]

Greetings! The Rural Outreach Center (the ROC) continues to touch lives in significant ways. This review of our activities in 2014 highlights some of these “touches.” Hints of individual stories tell a key part of the ripples we are creating beyond the numbers. We connect with our community at monthly free dinners sponsored by Pathways […]

Greetings! The Rural Outreach Center (the ROC) continues to touch the lives of many in our communities. The ROC is organized to provide multiple services to help people move from dependency of some sort to self-sufficiency. Movement toward self-sufficiency is monitored on 10 measures such as housing, literacy, employment, savings, etc.. By providing a variety […]

Greetings! The Rural Outreach Center (the ROC) continues to create ripples in the communities we serve and we have some great news to share! We have been given a LARGE double wide trailer to use until we can put up our building. The 70 x 38 foot trailer is a FEMA trailer that was used […]

Exciting news! Read all the way to the bottom to learn about a CHALLENGE made to the ROC. We hosted our ROC ‘N Spring event on Sunday evening, April 6th and had over 100 attendees. The Elm Street Bakery was a wonderful venue; they provided food and beer. Reeds Liquor store in East Aurora provided […]

Greetings! The Rural Outreach Center (the ROC) is creating ripples that are touching the lives of many in our communities. The ROC continues to serve those who are struggling in our rural communities. The ROC has created a place of hope where those in need can easily access multiple resources to assist, empower and elevate […]