As a social services non-profit, CMCA staff work directly with families and community members to address the causes and conditions of poverty.  CMCA believes that those most affected by poverty should be intricately involved in creating and implementing solutions to poverty.  To this end, CMCA invites members to engage in program planning & service delivery by participating in forums, completing surveys, assisting in the staff interview process, and serving as representatives on the Board of Directors, Head Start Policy Council, and advisory boards for the Foster Grandparents Program, Housing Choice Voucher Program, and Missouri Women's Business Center.

CMCA is committed to supporting members's efforts to create sustainable change in their lives and in their communities.  Internally, programs seek member input in program design, service delivery, and quality improvement efforts.  CMCA supports members in their self-advocacy and leadership efforts through classes such as Getting Ahead, Step Up to Leadership, and Bridges Out of Poverty.  Members are also encouraged to participate in local advocacy events.