To: Board of County Commissioners
Through: Michelle Halstead, Director, Commissioners’ Office
Prepared By:
prepared
Daniela Villarreal, Management Analyst I, Commissioners’ Office
end
presenter
Presenter: Daniela Villarreal, Management Analyst I, Commissioners’ Office
end
Subject:
title
1:00 PM *2024 Aid to Agencies Overview
end
Purpose and Request:
recommended action
The purpose of this study session is to provide information on the 2024 Aid to Agencies Program and seek Board approval of this year’s approach, including updated evaluation criteria, application timeline, and service categories.
end
Background and Discussion:
Beginning in 2008, the Arapahoe County Commissioners developed the Aid to Agencies program to financially support non-profit organizations filling service gaps in the county through annual grants. The Aid to Agencies program has evolved to fund organizations through two mechanisms: a safety net program in which agencies receive annual funding without needing to apply and a competitive grant program in which agencies apply to receive a portion of available funds.
The Aid to Agencies program funds organizations that provide services in the following areas to Arapahoe County residents:
• Affordable housing
• Case management
• Domestic violence support
• Employment skills/services
• Food assistance
• Mental/behavioral health
• Substance abuse
• Shelter
• Transportation
During the November 1, 2022, study session, the Board provided additional feedback about future updates to the program, including ways in which staff can support any new and returning applicants for successful grant submittals. Staff has also revised questions to the application form to identify ways in which information being provided can be more streamlined and uniformed. In addition, staff is continuing to look into ways to keep organizations accountable or means for disqualification.
Review Criteria
The proposed criteria for the 2024 grant cycle is attached for reference. No recommended changes at this time.
Timeline:
• June 19 - Application Opens
• June 27 - Application workshop for new and returning applicants.
• July 12 - Application workshop for new and returning applicants.
• August 18 - Application Closes
• October - Study Session to review recommendations.
• December - Adopt allocations with 2024 budget.
Fiscal Impact: The total budget for the Aid to Agencies program is approximately $1.6 million; proposed funding recommendations will be presented in October.
Alternatives: The Board could choose to add or remove prioritized categories, make amendments to the revised criteria, and/or adjust the timeline.
Alignment with Strategic Plan:
☒Be fiscally sustainable
☒Provide essential and mandated service
☒Be community focused
Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends moving forward with the 2024 Aid to Agencies approach as presented.
Concurrence: Human Services; Community Resources.